Greg DeShields

Skal Philadelphia, part of the esteemed Skal International network, has long been a powerful force in connecting tourism professionals across the globe. As the tourism industry faces unprecedented changes in a post-pandemic world, Skal Philadelphia’s leadership is embracing the future with a clear vision of innovation, sustainability, and meaningful collaboration. The chapter’s forward-thinking initiatives are setting the stage for a tourism industry that is more interconnected, responsible, and inclusive than ever before. A Global Network with a Local Focus At its core, Skal International is built on the strength of global networking. Skal Philadelphia, as one of the leading chapters in North America, continues to leverage this powerful platform, connecting professionals from all sectors of the tourism industry. The ability to share ideas, collaborate on new projects, and build relationships across borders has made Skal a key player in shaping the future of tourism. The leadership of...

Tourism awards serve as powerful tools in shaping the global travel landscape. They influence traveler decisions, elevate industry standards, and spotlight destinations and services demonstrating excellence. More than symbols of prestige, these accolades drive real-world outcomes—boosting visibility, encouraging innovation, and triggering economic benefits for local communities. As sustainability and technology gain importance, the criteria for recognition continue to evolve, reflecting the changing values of travelers and industry stakeholders alike. Whether it's a remote eco-lodge that earns attention for its green practices or a major city that’s rebranded through global acclaim, these honors contribute to a more competitive, responsible, and connected tourism industry. In this guide, we explore why recognition matters, which awards lead the way, and how destinations and organizations benefit from such achievements. 1. Why Recognition Matters in the Travel Industry Tourism award...

  Access to higher education has a transformative effect on individuals and communities alike. Scholarships play a crucial role in making this access possible, especially for students from underrepresented or economically challenged backgrounds. These programs help break down financial barriers, promote equity, and empower students to pursue careers that can uplift entire families. Beyond individual growth, scholarships cultivate leadership, civic engagement, and community development, creating ripple effects that last for generations. Whether through improved local economies, stronger public services, or increased mentorship opportunities, scholarship-funded education is a powerful tool for positive change. As communities collaborate to expand these programs and measure their impact, they build a foundation for long-term progress and social mobility. 1. Expanding Educational Access and Opportunity   Scholarship programs play a key role in eliminating financial hurdles th...

In a world where the demands of work can often leave little time for personal expression, cooking offers a unique opportunity for creativity and relaxation. For many, the kitchen serves as a sanctuary, a space where the pressures of the office can be momentarily forgotten in favor of something more personal. Whether it’s experimenting with new ingredients, perfecting a beloved recipe , or creating an entirely new dish, cooking allows individuals to tap into their creativity and explore new ways of expressing themselves. What starts as a simple hobby for many can evolve into a full-blown passion, transforming the kitchen into a place of endless possibilities. Cooking as a Creative Escape from Work Balancing a career with personal passions can be challenging, especially when work takes up much of one’s time and energy. However, cooking provides an ideal way to disconnect from the pressures of the office. The kitchen offers a space for individuals to step away from their professional resp...

"Thank you, Community Nexus , for the invitation to join the 2025 Workforce Development Conference in the Hudson Valley. It was a pleasure to be featured alongside Ary Aranguiz, CPTD , and Kristin Mayo , joining the "Beyond The Hype: How AI Is Reshaping Work & Leadership" session, as we examined how AI isn’t just a buzzword—it’s radically transforming business processes, leadership approaches, and career paths. Katiana Decime was an excellent Mistress of Ceremonies, Hamza Khan was a fantastic keynote speaker; the Nelly Goletti Theatre was motivating, thanks to Brandon Gaydorus, and Marist University was the perfect location. https://lnkd.in/gZ_m_DJ5 "

LEGACY AND IMPACT With Greg’s  passion for hospitality and his unwavering commitment to enriching both industry and community, Greg DeShields continues to inspire emerging professionals and embodies the values of growth, grace, perseverance, and purpose. His legacy is reflected in the students he uplifts, the programs he builds, and the equity he champions across every corner of the hospitality education landscape. EARLY FOUNDATIONS IN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Philadelphia OIC – Hospitality Training Institute Greg DeShields began his journey as a hospitality educator with Philadelphia OIC, where he played a critical role in leading workforce development initiatives for the Opportunities Inn Hospitality Training Institute. He collaborated with hospitality educators to develop curriculum and design lesson plans that emphasize industry-aligned skills and career readiness for underserved communities. This hands-on work laid the foundation for his long-standing commitment to equitable work...