Greg Deshields
Living in Cherry Hill, NJ, Greg Deshields is recognized as a trailblazer in the tourism and hospitality industry. In his role as the Executive Director of Tourism, his extensive knowledge, grounded in a robust educational background and enriched by his vast experience, drives his success. Notably certified as a Hospitality Educator (CHE), he has spearheaded innovative strategies that have significantly enhanced the visibility and appeal of tourism destinations. His career achievements are complemented by his active involvement in educational endeavors and community service, making him a respected figure both professionally and in the community.
Deshields is also known for hosting the innovative "Something to Say" podcast, which serves as a dynamic forum for people from various walks of life to engage in meaningful conversations. This podcast combines passion with purpose, aiming to spark curiosity, cultivate empathy, and empower listeners to explore their passions and articulate their voices.
Background and Education
His educational path was laid at Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island, where he completed an A.S. Degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management and a B.S. Degree in Hospitality Management. His commitment to continuous improvement led him to participate in advanced professional development programs at several prestigious institutions, including the Institute for Diversity Certification, Urban League of Philadelphia, Leadership Forum, Leadership Philadelphia, and Greater Philadelphia Leadership Exchange.
Professional Accomplishments
Greg’s professional journey is marked by a series of accolades that reflect his significant contributions to the field. These include the ConventionSouth Meeting Professional to Watch 2024, BizBash 15 Over 50, Metro Philadelphia LGBTQ+ Power Players, and Pride Power 100 Most Influential Pennsylvania LGBTQ. He was also honored with the Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom Medal by the Camden County Board of Commissioners in 2022. Moreover, he has received the Black Meeting and Tourism Apex Award and was named one of the PhocusWire Movers and Shakers. These acknowledgments celebrate his profound impact on the tourism and hospitality industry.
As a Certified Diversity Executive (CDE), his expertise extends to fostering inclusivity within the tourism and hospitality sectors. His initiatives focus on promoting diversity and addressing systemic barriers to inclusion, thereby creating a more inclusive business environment and enhancing community cohesion.
A Dedicated Educator
Deshields takes great pride in his role as an adjunct faculty member at the Community College of Philadelphia and Temple University's School of Tourism and Hospitality Management. He is committed to the academic success of his students, embracing challenges and focusing on the importance of lifelong learning. His dedication is a testament to his belief in the transformative power of education, significantly enhancing the learning experience for students and preparing them for professional success.
Professional Affiliations
His professional involvement is extensive. He has held roles such as Board President of the Independence Business Alliance Philadelphia LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, Board Secretary at COMHAR Inc., and President of Skål Philadelphia Chapter. Currently, he is a member of the boards of EBANMAN Inc., the Greater Philadelphia Film Office, Center City Proprietors Association, The Tourism Academy, and the Philadelphia Award.
Greg maintains professional certifications as a Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) from the Society of Diversity, a Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute, and a Certified Hotel Owner (CHO) from the Asian American Hotel Owners Association. A profound commitment to leadership and the nurturing of future leaders in the hospitality and tourism fields drives his career.
Personal Life and Interests
Outside of his professional engagements, he has a deep-seated passion for cooking, which developed during his academic tenure at Johnson & Wales University. His culinary pursuits reflect his creativity and love for experimenting with new tastes and dishes.
Community Contributions
He is deeply engaged in his community, which is highlighted by his establishment of The Delores W. Deshields Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship supports upper-level students at STHM who are passionate about travel and tourism and inspired by the enduring spirit of Delores Deshields. It aims to foster resilience and passion among its recipients, further enriching the community.
The dedication ceremony for The Delores W. Deshields Endowed Scholarship at Temple University’s School of Sport, Tourism, and Hospitality Management is a reflection of his commitment to the field. Through his passion and unwavering dedication, Greg Deshields continues to inspire and lead, embodying the values of growth and perseverance in the ever-evolving landscape of tourism and hospitality.
Learn more about DeShields:
"Elevating Voices Through Storytelling" podcast storytelling engages listeners in a unique and immersive way.
Something To Say with Greg DeShields
Greg DeShields Global Director of Club and Events
Gregory L. DeShields, CHE, CDE’s Post
Greg DeShields Consulting LLC
EMBRACING CIVIC DUTY: VOLUNTEERING FOR A BOARD OF ELECTION
15 HOURS FINDING COMMON GROUND AS BOARD OF ELECTION VOLUNTEERS
BOARD OF ELECTION VOLUNTEERS
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
Deshields is also known for hosting the innovative "Something to Say" podcast, which serves as a dynamic forum for people from various walks of life to engage in meaningful conversations. This podcast combines passion with purpose, aiming to spark curiosity, cultivate empathy, and empower listeners to explore their passions and articulate their voices.
Background and Education
His educational path was laid at Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island, where he completed an A.S. Degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management and a B.S. Degree in Hospitality Management. His commitment to continuous improvement led him to participate in advanced professional development programs at several prestigious institutions, including the Institute for Diversity Certification, Urban League of Philadelphia, Leadership Forum, Leadership Philadelphia, and Greater Philadelphia Leadership Exchange.
Professional Accomplishments
Greg’s professional journey is marked by a series of accolades that reflect his significant contributions to the field. These include the ConventionSouth Meeting Professional to Watch 2024, BizBash 15 Over 50, Metro Philadelphia LGBTQ+ Power Players, and Pride Power 100 Most Influential Pennsylvania LGBTQ. He was also honored with the Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom Medal by the Camden County Board of Commissioners in 2022. Moreover, he has received the Black Meeting and Tourism Apex Award and was named one of the PhocusWire Movers and Shakers. These acknowledgments celebrate his profound impact on the tourism and hospitality industry.
As a Certified Diversity Executive (CDE), his expertise extends to fostering inclusivity within the tourism and hospitality sectors. His initiatives focus on promoting diversity and addressing systemic barriers to inclusion, thereby creating a more inclusive business environment and enhancing community cohesion.
A Dedicated Educator
Deshields takes great pride in his role as an adjunct faculty member at the Community College of Philadelphia and Temple University's School of Tourism and Hospitality Management. He is committed to the academic success of his students, embracing challenges and focusing on the importance of lifelong learning. His dedication is a testament to his belief in the transformative power of education, significantly enhancing the learning experience for students and preparing them for professional success.
Professional Affiliations
His professional involvement is extensive. He has held roles such as Board President of the Independence Business Alliance Philadelphia LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, Board Secretary at COMHAR Inc., and President of Skål Philadelphia Chapter. Currently, he is a member of the boards of EBANMAN Inc., the Greater Philadelphia Film Office, Center City Proprietors Association, The Tourism Academy, and the Philadelphia Award.
Greg maintains professional certifications as a Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) from the Society of Diversity, a Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute, and a Certified Hotel Owner (CHO) from the Asian American Hotel Owners Association. A profound commitment to leadership and the nurturing of future leaders in the hospitality and tourism fields drives his career.
Personal Life and Interests
Outside of his professional engagements, he has a deep-seated passion for cooking, which developed during his academic tenure at Johnson & Wales University. His culinary pursuits reflect his creativity and love for experimenting with new tastes and dishes.
Community Contributions
He is deeply engaged in his community, which is highlighted by his establishment of The Delores W. Deshields Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship supports upper-level students at STHM who are passionate about travel and tourism and inspired by the enduring spirit of Delores Deshields. It aims to foster resilience and passion among its recipients, further enriching the community.
The dedication ceremony for The Delores W. Deshields Endowed Scholarship at Temple University’s School of Sport, Tourism, and Hospitality Management is a reflection of his commitment to the field. Through his passion and unwavering dedication, Greg Deshields continues to inspire and lead, embodying the values of growth and perseverance in the ever-evolving landscape of tourism and hospitality.
Learn more about DeShields:
"Elevating Voices Through Storytelling" podcast storytelling engages listeners in a unique and immersive way.
Something To Say with Greg DeShields
Greg DeShields Global Director of Club and Events
Gregory L. DeShields, CHE, CDE’s Post
Greg DeShields Consulting LLC
EMBRACING CIVIC DUTY: VOLUNTEERING FOR A BOARD OF ELECTION
15 HOURS FINDING COMMON GROUND AS BOARD OF ELECTION VOLUNTEERS
BOARD OF ELECTION VOLUNTEERS
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
