About Me
Greg Deshields is a distinguished figure in the tourism and hospitality industry, deeply rooted in Philadelphia. His commitment to shaping the sector’s future is evident through his dedicated efforts in developing the next wave of hospitality leaders. With a broad spectrum of experience across academia, non-profit organizations, corporate entities, and government sectors, he has become synonymous with driving positive change. His expertise in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), focusing on organizational assessments and the systematic evaluation of current practices, is particularly notable. His approach to workforce development and building robust client relationships underlines his belief in collaboration and excellence as critical drivers of success and growth.
He holds an A.S. in Hotel & Restaurant Management and a B.S. in Hospitality Management from Johnson & Wales University, Providence, Rhode Island. His commitment to leadership and personal growth is further demonstrated by his active participation in various esteemed leadership programs, including those offered by the Urban League of Philadelphia, Leadership Forum, Leadership Philadelphia, and Greater Philadelphia Leadership Exchange.
His professional qualifications are extensive and diverse. He is a Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) accredited by the Society of Diversity, a Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) through the American Hotel & Lodging Association Educational Institute, and a licensed Diamond Inclusiveness Assessment Provider with CultureBrokers® LLC. Additionally, his expertise is recognized with a Certified Hotel Owner (CHO) designation from the Asian American Hotel Owners Association.
His educational journey continued with a certificate in Ethical and Inclusive Leadership and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace from the University of South Florida Muma College of Business. He is also a proud graduate of the Professional Development Leadership program from the Institute for Diversity Certification, among other leadership initiatives.
His accolades include being named the 2023 ConventionSouth Meeting Professional to Watch, receiving the 2023 BizBash 15 Over 50, and countless other recognitions from organizations like Metro Philadelphia LGBTQ+ Power Players and Pride Power. In 2022, he was honored with the Boy Scouts of America’s Hospitality “Good Scout” Award, the Black Meeting and Tourism Apex Award, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom Medal, and was featured as a PhocusWire Mover and Shaker.
Beyond his professional achievements, Gregory DeShields is actively involved with several influential organizations, contributing his knowledge and expertise to enrich the industry further. As a speaker, he frequently addresses the essentials of DEIB, underscoring the imperative for leadership to spearhead inclusivity initiatives from the top, reinforcing his commitment to fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and dynamic hospitality and tourism industry.
