Neil Phillips is the Chief Diversity Officer of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association as well as an innovative speaker and entrepreneur who delivers light and visibility to the most pressing issues of our time: value and equity. Neil focuses on creating opportunities that elevate human value in business, education, and the public/private sector. A sought-after inspirational speaker on topics of diversity, education, and culture, Neil offers a unique vision and spirit of inclusivity.
Neil, a former professional basketball player, spent his early career in youth sports and character development at One On One Basketball and Positive Coaching Alliance. In 2002, Neil returned to his alma mater, Landon School, and served in administrative leadership roles for 10 years. Motivated to do more to address the national crisis of boys of color, Neil transitioned from Landon in 2012 and Co-Founded Visible Men Academy (VMA). Prior to his resignation in 2021, Neil served as the Co-Founder, founding Principal, and CEO of VMA.
Neil is an Aspen Institute Education Entrepreneurship Fellow and a member of the inaugural Echoing Green/Open Society Foundation Black Male Achievement Fellowship.
Neil is a graduate of Harvard University.
