Executive Director Tourism

Greg DeShields

Greg DeShields is a respected nonprofit visionary with over 20 years of experience driving national impact through inclusive workforce development programs, diversity-centered strategic partnerships, and high-profile events that build community, shift narratives, and transform organizational culture across sectors such as tourism and hospitality. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing economic initiatives and strengthening local business ecosystems.

Greg hosts the popular “Something to Say” podcast, providing an engaging platform for exploring the pursuit of passion with purpose. On Something to Say, Greg not only exchanges conversation, wisdom, and friendship with individuals from a wide spectrum of experiences, but also works to spark curiosity, cultivate empathy, and empower listeners to discover their own unique passion and voice.

Greg earned both an A.S. in Hotel and Restaurant Management and a B.S. in Hospitality Management from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. He is also a graduate of several leadership programs, including the Urban League of Philadelphia Leadership Forum, Leadership Philadelphia, and the Greater Philadelphia Leadership Exchange.

Here is a TV segment I was featured in on Tuesday: https://youtu.be/Wuqkb7m9-p4

Here is an article which I was featured: “Preserve” Haddonfield’s African American Community

Greg DeShields Global Director of Club and Events

Supplier Diversity and Economic Impact: Driving Business Growth and Community Development

Greg’s New Consulting Page: https://gregdeshieldsconsulting.com

Skal 70 Anniversary program:

Skål Philadelphia 70th Anniversary with June Seminario, Intercontinental Hotel Group

https://share.alivepodcastnetwork.com/the-podcast-introduction

Karin M. Aaron, CTA, STS President & CEO Green Book Experience

21st Annual National Diversity & Leadership Conference – NDLC Los Angeles, CA

‘Something to Say’: Greg DeShields on Passion, Purpose, and Podcasting

Skål Washington DC 70th Anniversary & Supplier Diversity Resources

Here is a recently released article [https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1539265-september-october-2025/26?], a podcast program “Alive Prompt” program [https://www.youtube.com/live/gJLbD_zQPOk] a group shot attending Skal Washington DC 70th Anniversary:

As a proud member of Skål Philadelphia (joined by chapter President Mariska K. Bogle and board member Devon Johnston) – Congratulations Skål International Greater Washington, D.C. celebrating your 70th Anniversary and delicious Lobster Fest and Fundraiser. The venue was amazing at Columbia Island Marina George Washington Memorial Pkwy in Arlington, Virginia. It was great to spend time with Skål International Official Vice President 2025 & President Elect 2026 Andres Omar Hayes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yzpHU0mVes

Supplier Diversity Business Rationale
https://youtu.be/cG9SjLQ2syc

Supplier Diversity Direct and Indirect Economic Benefits
https://youtu.be/LFllCUnl1v4

Supplier Diversity Job Creation and Community Development
https://youtu.be/R3LHJLLKAtc

Supplier Diversity Words Banned or Flagged by Federal Agencies
https://youtu.be/zOds9LahVxM

Supplier Diversity Future Trends and Opportunities
https://youtu.be/KdIxjNCxSXk

INCLUSION STATEMENT

By Greg DeShields
2025

In today’s fast-evolving world, embracing inclusion is not only the right thing to do—it’s a strategic advantage across every sector.

We must recognize that our differences are our greatest strengths. Building a level playing field where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive is not optional—it’s essential.

Fostering environments where people feel valued, respected, and included requires a sustained commitment. Organizations must prioritize strategies that cultivate a culture of belonging, empowering individuals to bring their authentic selves to work.

Above all, we must hold ourselves accountable for our actions, impact, and progress.

More about Greg Deshields

AI in Careers: Shaping the Future of Work and Skills

The Evolution Continues: Reflections from the Next Generation of Hospitality Leaders

The Hoinser Media Group Award Video

Know More

Good afternoon!

On behalf of everyone at the CCSNJ, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for your time, energy, and enthusiasm during our Day of Service on Tuesday.

Because of your commitment and dedication, we were able to make a real difference, and we’re so grateful for the compassion and teamwork you brought to the day.

Community service days like this are a reminder of the power of people coming together to create positive change — and you helped make that possible.

We hope you found the experience as meaningful and inspiring as we did. We’ll be in touch in the new year about future volunteer opportunities if you’re interested in joining us again.

To view photos from each service project, please click here: PHOTOS

Thank you once again for making our Day of Service such a success!

More information and great testimonials:

JANJ is deeply grateful for your leadership, dedication, energy, and the generous gift of your time and talent. Your involvement has empowered 75 young people to take ownership of their economic success. Through your guidance, they’ve gained self-confidence and motivation to pursue their personal, educational, and career goals.

Thanks to your experience and encouragement, students have begun envisioning their futures with purpose and excitement.

A special thank you to Col. Vince Ross at Camden High for hosting and coordinating this inspiring event and helping your students dream big.

Please click here to view the photos!

“The career speakers were great. Their life stories, how they made it to where they are today, their companies and what they work as, the best part for me I was able to learn from professionals and learn their secrets and history.” – Noor, 12th grade

“I liked the information and skills being shared with the students from the volunteers most about the JA Career experience. I liked the length and passion the JA volunteers put into their presentation and the amount of interaction from them towards the students.” – Hamza, 12th grade

“What I liked about my JA career experience was how they talked about networking and teaching us it was amazing. I liked how the mentor/volunteers shared their experience they have in life and what they did to make an impact.” – Brianna, 11th grade

“This experience has helped me develop skills to be successful in my future career.” – Yamila, 9th grade

Please continue to stay involved with JA!

With sincere gratitude,
Celeste, Lorraine, and The JANJ Team

RE:Talent – “Why Your Talent Lifecycle Needs a Reality Check” (See Attached)
Published Article by The Professional Service Group of Central New Jersey (PSGCNJ) – Navigating the Crossroads

Black Meeting and Magazine

Visit Here: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1507211-september-october-2023/0

Alive Podcast “A Live Prompt”, One Prompt. Two Perspectives.

To learn more, visit here: https://rss.com/podcasts/greg-deshields/2147228

Greg DeShields Gives Thanks for a Meaningful Conference Experience

Thank you, Community Nexus, for the invitation to join the 2025 Workforce Development Conference in the Hudson Valley. It was a pleasure to be featured alongside Ary Aranguiz, CPTD, and Kristin Mayo, joining the “Beyond The Hype: How AI Is Reshaping Work & Leadership” session, as we examined how AI isn’t just a buzzword—it’s radically transforming business processes, leadership approaches, and career paths.

Katiana Decime was an excellent Mistress of Ceremonies, Hamza Khan was a fantastic keynote speaker; the Nelly Goletti Theatre was motivating, thanks to Brandon Gaydorus, and Marist University was the perfect location.

https://lnkd.in/gZ_m_DJ5