WOMEN TO WATCH

Phillis N. Anderson, Ed.D.

Chief Executive Officer/Founder
ScholarMade Achievement Place

As a champion for youth and families, I have served as a teacher and administrator in inner city schools across the nation. I have led and supported the scaling and management of impactful initiatives that serve communities and families, and am the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of ScholarMade Achievement Place.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

Best career moment so far

Of course, the creation of schools, but also having the honor to do this work alongside so many amazing people who inspire me and grow me.

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

Writing in my prayer journal.

Best advice I ever received

Do not let compliments go to your head or criticisms to your heart.

A skill I never expected to need in this field

Managing construction. I consider myself a builder of organizations, programs and people, but I have also become a builder of facilities and designer of innovative spaces.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

The hope that we will meet the needs of every child every day. God's calling on my life keeps me resilient and persistent. The belief that we can create a better tomorrow.

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

Rethink the possibility. I hardly ever quit.

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

There are many pathways to meeting the needs of young people. Collectively, we are much more powerful in making an impact when we support each other and work together.

Nonprofit I wish more people knew about

The Educational Advancement Foundation, Inc.. The organization provides scholarships, fellowships, and grants for women and minority graduate and undergraduate students.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

England

I can't start my day until

I have a cup of coffee and pray.

Hobbies

Traveling, dancing and enjoying my grandchildren.

Binge watch

Award-nominated shows

Last good read

"Lead Right" by Steve Venture

Favorite meal in town

Sockeye salmon from Samantha's Tap Room

Best recent local discovery

Cinnamon Creme Bakery

Latest splurge

Peleton bike

Most-used app

Instagram

Dream vacation

Holy Land tour

SPONSORS