In honor of Veterans Day, we are highlighting the invaluable lessons that veterans bring to the philanthropic sector. Christian Cañas, Vice President of Executive Search and Army Veteran, recently had the privilege of sitting down with a seasoned veteran of the United States Air Force and Vice President of Institutional Advancement for Xavier University of Louisiana, Phillip Adams, who has dedicated years to service both in and out of uniform. Through their conversation, they explored the intersection of leadership, service, and diversity—all vital qualities in the world of philanthropy.
This conversation provided unique insights into how veterans’ experiences translate into skills that drive impactful work in the nonprofit sector and beyond. With a strong foundation in discipline, adaptability, and commitment to service, veterans bring a perspective that enriches the sector and helps build stronger, more inclusive organizations. Join us as we share these insights and celebrate the contributions of veterans in philanthropy, honoring the values that inspire change and uplift communities.
Can you share a bit about your background and what initially drew you to a career in philanthropy?
My journey into fundraising began unexpectedly when I was recommended for a role with United Way of Greater Saint Louis. To my surprise, the work proved incredibly rewarding, and I quickly realized how fulfilling it was to contribute to causes that positively impact people’s lives. From that point on, I found a deep sense of purpose in supporting meaningful initiatives and making a difference.
As an Air Force veteran, could you tell us about your service and what motivated you to join the Air Force?
I served as an enlisted airman for six years, driven by a desire to serve my country and a commitment to personal growth. During my time on active duty, I was able to complete both my undergraduate and graduate degrees, which was an invaluable experience in balancing service and self-improvement. The Air Force provided unique development opportunities that strengthened my character and shaped my career path.
How has your military experience influenced your approach as a leader in the nonprofit sector?
The military instills a strong commitment to teamwork and mission—qualities essential to success, especially in nonprofits. My time in the service taught me how to stay focused and collaborative under pressure, which has been crucial throughout my philanthropic career. Leading in the nonprofit sector is about bringing people together to work toward a common goal, something I learned to value early on.
Many veterans lead, start, or work in nonprofits—why do you think veterans are often drawn to this work?
Veterans have a profound sense of purpose and dedication to fulfilling a mission, which easily extends beyond military service. This mission-driven outlook makes veterans a natural fit for roles in nonprofits. Many veterans find fulfillment in pursuing impactful goals and appreciate the continuity of serving others in meaningful ways.
Why should nonprofits consider hiring and retaining veterans as part of their workforce?
Veterans bring strong discipline, a passion for mission-focused work, and an innovative approach to problem-solving. Their training equips them to adapt and thrive in the dynamic, often resource-constrained environment of nonprofits, making them highly valuable assets to any team. Veterans simply don’t give up!
What inspires you to stay committed to this field?
I’m inspired daily by the opportunity to make a difference in students’ lives. Knowing that my work lays the groundwork for the success of future generations gives me a profound sense of purpose. In philanthropy, each day offers a chance to contribute to something lasting, and that motivates me to keep pushing forward.
As a leader of color in a historically less diverse field, have you encountered unique challenges or opportunities?
Early in my career, I was frequently assigned challenging projects or programs that were arduous to implement. Over time, I developed a niche in managing and improving outdated or underperforming processes, making each project successful. Embracing the difficult assignments allowed me to demonstrate my abilities and ultimately positioned me as a problem-solver and an expert in program turnaround. This expertise has greatly benefited my career.
Could you share some of the exciting initiatives underway at Xavier University of Louisiana?
I’m honored to lead the staff efforts in our Centennial Campaign, a bold initiative to raise $500 million for Xavier University of Louisiana. The campaign’s primary goal is to enhance affordability and student support. Additionally, the funds will foster growth in academic and student services and contribute to the creation of a forthcoming medical school. These initiatives will significantly expand Xavier’s impact, advancing our mission to serve and uplift the community.
Phillip D. Adams serves as the Vice President of Institutional Advancement (VPIA) for Xavier University of Louisiana. As Vice President, he leads the University’s fundraising efforts and is responsible for designing and implementing comprehensive institutional advancement initiatives. Presently, Adams is providing staff leadership for Xavier’s $500 million Centennial Campaign. Adams also serves as Vice Chair of the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine (XOCOM) Foundation, the fundraising arm of the newly established College of Medicine.
Adams previously served as the Vice President for University Advancement at Savannah State University (SSU) in Georgia. He also provided leadership as the Executive Director of the SSU Foundation and the University’s Director of Government Relations. Concurrently, he served as president of two real estate holding corporations, Real Ventures LLC and Community Development II LLC.
Adams has successfully served as Vice President for Advancement at four Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), exceeding previous records in gifts at each. He has over 30 years of experience as a fundraiser and leader. His previous appointments include positions at Norfolk State University, LeMoyne-Owen College, Saint Louis University, and United Way of Greater Saint Louis.
Adams is a veteran of the United States Air Force. He received a Master of Science degree from Golden Gate University and his undergraduate degree from Saint Leo University.
Xavier University of Louisiana, America’s only historically Black and Catholic University, is ranked among the top three HBCUs (historically Black colleges and universities) in the nation. Recognized as a national leader in STEM and health sciences, Xavier produces more African American students who graduate from medical schools each year than any other university in the United States. Additionally, Xavier’s College of Pharmacy is also among the top producers of African American pharmacists in the country.
Established in 1925 by Saint Katharine Drexel and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament as a place for African Americans and Native Americans to receive quality education, Xavier has since expanded its programs in art, business, education, biological sciences, chemistry, pharmacy, and political science. More recent additions in robotics, bioinformatics, engineering, data science, neuroscience and genetics, in addition to new STEM-based master’s programs, have provided Xavier students (3,419 students) an unbeatable combination of traditional classroom study, hands-on research, service-learning opportunities and life experiences. Xavier students collaborate with world-renowned faculty, who are experts in their fields, to produce award-winning research and notable work. The winning Xavier formula provides students with a well-balanced curriculum and an environment that nurtures their intellect and feeds their souls, thereby facilitating a more just and humane society for all. For more information about Xavier University of Louisiana, visit us online at www.XULA.edu.
Campbell & Company is a national consulting firm that supports nonprofit organizations in creating greater impact through executive search, fundraising, communications, and strategic information services. Since 1976, Campbell & Company has helped over 2,500 clients grow their fundraising results through an integrated approach. In addition, our award-winning executive search team brings a record of success in placing exceptional leaders across the nonprofit sector.
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