Dr. Brad Phillips

Listen to this article

Dr. Brad Phillips became executive director of the Maryland Association of Community Colleges on July 1, 2021. In this role, Phillips works with the Maryland Council of Community College Presidents to determine and execute strategic initiatives for the community colleges. He represents the colleges at the state and national level and promotes the attributes of community colleges to all Marylanders.

Phillips has worked at MACC since 2008 and previously worked at the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Phillips holds a doctorate in Higher Education Management from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies from Georgetown University and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Southern Adventist University.

What is your biggest accomplishment?

I am extraordinarily proud of the work MACC has done to become a reliable & trustworthy organization that policymakers value. That is an accomplishment that takes years to establish. The mission of community colleges is one of the most rewarding in higher education and as we have garnered more credibility, MACC has used our influence to help policymakers understand the value of community colleges, making Maryland’s community college system the No. 1 system in the nation three years in a row.

What is the biggest challenge facing higher education institutions?

There is too much coverage on selective institutions and not enough on the work taking place at community colleges. If the focus could shift, policymakers could learn how important we are not just to learners who are seeking academic & career goals but also how valuable we are to our broader community by bringing economic vitality, social mobility, and wellbeing to our communities. We offer apprenticeships, licensures, certifications, and associate degrees, all positive community outcomes.

What do you do to unwind?

This is an easy one. I love to spend time with my friends and family. I find doing so is the best way to recharge all while being able to unwind. One of my most favorite activities is walking my dog Coco every morning as I think about the day ahead. Other activities include spending time with my wife Mindy Lehman and my kids Charlotte and Emerson out on the Chesapeake Bay. And of course, I certainly enjoy reading and music as they are the perfect way to unwind after the day is over.

This profile is part of The Daily Record's Higher Education Power List for 2025. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. See the full list at origintdrdev.wpengine.com.