Gregory L. DeShields, CDE, CHE
Strategic, Inclusive, and Leader in Philadelphia, PA
A tourism industry executive, certified hospitality educator, and strategic leader now serving as President of Skål Philadelphia, with a proven track record across diverse sectors.
Greg DeShields is a nationally respected tourism industry executive, certified hospitality educator, and nonprofit leader with more than 30 years of experience advancing inclusive workforce development, destination growth, and strategic partnerships across the tourism, hospitality, education, and nonprofit sectors. He is a visionary leader known for aligning economic impact with community-centered outcomes and for building initiatives that strengthen local and regional tourism ecosystems.
Greg currently serves as President of Skål Philadelphia, providing strategic leadership to one of the region’s premier global tourism organizations while fostering collaboration among industry executives, destinations, and emerging leaders. Throughout his career, he has led high-profile programs and events that build community, challenge narratives, and transform organizational culture—particularly in spaces focused on equity, access, and talent development.
Through Greg DeShields Consulting LLC (GDC), Greg brings a comprehensive, systems-based approach to tourism and hospitality consulting. Drawing on deep expertise in hospitality operations, destination marketing, higher education, and workforce development, GDC partners with organizations to develop talent pipelines, strengthen industry engagement, and create sustainable strategies that support long-term growth and inclusion within the tourism economy.
He serves as a board member of the North Bay LGBTQ+ Community & Visitors Center, EBANMAN Inc., the Greater Philadelphia Film Office, the Green Book Experience, and Cheyney University's HRTM Program.He is also active in organizations such as the Cherry Hill African American Civic Association (CHAACA),the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey, andthe NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People).
My professional development journey as an educator continues to evolve in meaningful and unexpected ways.
As the Lead Site Assistant for aHead Start preschool program, I have gained a powerful perspective on the fundamentals of teaching and the profound impact educators can have on the youngest learners. Working with children ages three and four reminds me every day that education truly begins long before college and career preparation—it begins with curiosity, encouragement, and a nurturing learning environment.
Pre-K education is one of the most important stages in a child’s development. These early years are when children begin building the foundations of language, early literacy, numeracy, emotional awareness, and social skills. Helping students learn to interact with teachers and peers, follow routines, explore ideas, and build confidence is incredibly rewarding work.
The Head Start program itself has a remarkable legacy. Established in 1965 as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty, Head Start was created to ensure that children from families facing socioeconomic challenges could begin school prepared to succeed.
Each day in this role, I have the opportunity to nurture, educate, support, and guide young learners while also continuing my own professional growth through additional certifications in early childhood education.
After many years working in higher education, workforce development, and hospitality leadership, it has been incredibly fulfilling to contribute at the very beginning of the educational journey. Supporting young students as they prepare for kindergarten is both meaningful and inspiring.
Greg is also the host of the Something to Say with Greg DeShieldspodcast, a platform dedicated to exploring passion, purpose, and leadership through authentic conversation. The podcast brings together voices from across industries and lived experiences, encouraging curiosity, empathy, and self-discovery while empowering listeners to find and use their own voice.
Greg holds an Associate of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management and a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. He is a graduate of several distinguished leadership programs, including the Urban League of Philadelphia Leadership Forum, Leadership Philadelphia, and the Greater Philadelphia Leadership Exchange.
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