Greg DeShields is a distinguished nonprofit executive and renowned advocate for inclusive economic and workforce advancement, with over 20 years of leadership in tourism, hospitality, and community development. Greg is celebrated for building bridges across sectors, pioneering diversity-driven programs, and empowering organizations and individuals to realize their fullest potential.
Greg’s voice and vision extend through his role as host of the “Something to Say” podcast, where he curates powerful conversations with leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Through honest dialogue and storytelling, Greg inspires listeners to find purpose, embrace empathy, and pursue transformative change both personally and professionally.
A proud alumnus of Johnson & Wales University, Greg holds an A.S. and B.S. in Hospitality Management. His leadership journey continued with the completion of programs like the Urban League of Philadelphia Leadership Forum, Leadership Philadelphia, and the Greater Philadelphia Leadership Exchange. Professional credentials underscore Greg’s expertise as a Certified Diversity Executive (CDE), Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE), and Diamond Inclusiveness Assessment Provider.
Greg’s trailblazing impact has been recognized by prestigious awards such as Pride Power 100 Most Influential Pennsylvania LGBTQ, BizBash 15 Over 50, ConventionSouth Meeting Professional to Watch, Metro Philadelphia LGBTQ+ Power Players, the Boy Scouts of America’s “Good Scout” Award, Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom Medal, Black Meeting and Tourism Apex Award, and the PhocusWire Movers and Shakers Award.
Committed to civic leadership and industry growth, Gregory currently serves on the boards of Skål Philadelphia, Greater Philadelphia Film Office, Philadelphia Award, Green Book Experience, Cheyney University’s HRTM Program, EBANMAN Inc., and North Bay LGBTQ+ Community & Visitors Center. His affiliations also include the National Small Business Association, SHRM, NAACP, and Chamber of Commerce of Southern New Jersey.
In key leadership roles at Temple University, Community College of Philadelphia, and Philadelphia OIC, Greg has led major workforce initiatives, championed small business support, and fostered inclusive organizational cultures. As a respected speaker, mentor, and advisor, Greg DeShields continues to elevate diverse voices, build pathways for success, and drive sustainable, equitable community impact across the nation.
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
https://vocal.media/interview/ai-in-careers-shaping-the-future-of-work-and-skills
Greg Deshields hasn't published any decks.
Speaker Deck Pro: Add privacy options and schedule the publishing of your decks Upgrade
