Member Login
Search

EACE 2026 Board of Directors Elections

Director, Career Growth Candidate

philip wilkerson headshotPhilip Wilkerson III
Employer Engagement Consultant
George Mason University

1. Describe your interest in serving on the EACE Board in this capacity.

I am honored to be considered for the EACE Board as Director of Career Growth. When I first joined EACE in 2018, I never imagined that serving in a regional leadership role would be possible for me. I initially felt intimidated by the idea of board service, but through my involvement in committees and the encouragement of current leaders, I began to see myself differently. My first experience on the Board as Director of Technology from 2022 to 2024 showed me that I was more than capable of serving at the regional level. That experience built my confidence tremendously and, at the time, inspired me to believe that I might one day want to serve as President. However, as I have continued to grow both professionally and personally, my perspective has shifted. While I once aspired to the presidency, I have come to realize that my greatest fulfillment comes from serving, mentoring, and helping others grow wherever I fit best. I no longer feel the need to pursue the highest leadership role to make a meaningful impact. Supporting current leadership, including Whitney Kerr as President-Elect and President, and contributing in ways that strengthen others is more than enough for me at this stage of my career. Mentorship and career development are deeply important to me. I was honored to be named the 2024 NACE Mentor of the Year, and I am currently participating in the Leadership Fairfax Emerging Leaders Institute, where the core belief is that everyone is a leader in their own way. With thoughtful instruction, intention, and support, we can all grow. Serving as Director of Career Growth would allow me to pour into others, help develop future leaders, and give back to an organization that has helped shape my own journey.

 

2. What skills and experiences do you possess that have prepared you to be successful in this role?

My professional experiences, leadership background, and passion for mentorship have prepared me to be successful in the role of Director of Career Growth. In my current role as an Employer Engagement Consultant at George Mason University, I regularly design programs, workshops, and communications that support career development for students, alumni, and employers. My work requires strategic planning, relationship building, and the ability to create engaging content that connects people to opportunities. I am also a creative communicator who enjoys using digital media to inspire and educate others. Since 2017, I have hosted the Positive Philter podcast, where I create content focused on career development, mentorship, and personal growth. I frequently write blog posts, produce videos, and lead online discussions, and I would bring this same creativity to the Director of Career Growth role to help promote EACE initiatives and engage members in new ways. Public speaking and leadership development are also strengths of mine. I am a Distinguished Toastmaster, have delivered a TEDx talk, and regularly present workshops and conference sessions. These experiences have strengthened my confidence, communication skills, and ability to motivate others. My current work toward a Google Project Management Certification reflects my commitment to continuous learning and organized, strategic execution. Relationship building is one of my greatest strengths. I am an outgoing and people-centered leader who believes that a strong association culture is built through kindness, empathy, and encouragement. Having been actively involved in EACE events, conferences, and committees, I understand how meaningful those experiences can be for member growth and retention. I am passionate about helping others develop, and I believe that passion will allow me to serve the association well in this role.

 

3. What ideas and/or goals do you have for this position?

If selected as Director of Career Growth, my goals would focus on strengthening the professional development opportunities that already make EACE valuable while using creative approaches to increase engagement. I believe we do not always need brand-new initiatives to grow; instead, we can build on the strong programs we already have and deliver them in consistent, intentional ways. My vision centers on three main priorities. First, I would like to bring back the EACE Career Conversations Podcast as a platform to share career stories, highlight member experiences, and discuss professional development topics. Storytelling is a powerful way to help members feel connected to the association, and a podcast allows us to capture the knowledge and wisdom that already exists within EACE. This could also expand into more video content, similar to past web shows, to engage both current and prospective members and create opportunities for sponsorship and visibility. Second, I would like to elevate the EACE Mentorship Program. I believe this program is already excellent, and my goal would be to maintain its high quality while encouraging greater participation. Ideally, I would like to see at least 50% of EACE members involved as either a mentor or mentee. Mentorship is one of the most meaningful ways we support career growth, and increasing participation will strengthen the sense of community within the association. Third, I would like to reestablish consistent webinars, with a goal of hosting one every other month. This schedule is realistic, sustainable, and allows us to tap into the intellectual capital of our members without creating burnout. Along with this, I would like to expand the EACE blog through regular member spotlights to recognize our members and keep the community engaged.

 

4. EACE History/Additional Experience

Years of Membership: 9 years

EACE Service History: 

EACE Board - Director of Technology and Information Management (2022 to 2024)

  • Member of the Hospitality Committee (2019-2020) and helped organize 1st Virtual Newcomer Meeting
  • Co-Chaired the EACE Conference Experience Committee with Bob Bullard (Summer 2020-Summer 2021)
  • Nomination Taskforce Chair (2024-2025)
  • Co-Lead EACE Black/African American Affinity Group (2025-Present)
  • Chair of the Technology Committee (2021-2022)

Awards & Presidential Citations:

  • Outstanding Member Award 2022
  • Innovation in Diversity and Inclusion 2022
  • Presidential Citation 2021
  • Presidential Citation 2025

Additional Experience (outside of EACE):

  • GMU Black Alumni Chapter Board- Vice President of Engagement (2020-2021)
  • President, GMU College of Education and Human Development Alumni Chapter Board (2025-Present)
  • Dr. William T. Syphax Charitable Foundation (2024-Present)