TULSA, OK, April 28, 2023 - Marquis Who's Who, the world's premier publisher of biographical profiles, is proud to honor David C. Phillips III with inclusion in Who's Who in the World. An accomplished listee, Mr. Phillips celebrates many years' experience in his professional network, and has been noted for achievements, leadership qualities, and the credentials and successes he has accrued in his field. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.
Mr. Phillips is an experienced defense attorney of over 30 years who stepped away from the courtroom to help young men regain their lives. In 2015, he co-founded 1st Step Male Diversion Program Inc. After two years as the nonprofit organization's board president, Mr. Phillips rose to serve as its chief executive officer.
Incorporated in 2016 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, 1st Step enrolled its first young man in the program the following year. Following a proven, evidence-based model for rehabilitating non-violent offenders, the 18–24-month program is geared toward penitentiary-bound young men between 18 and 30. Once they complete the program successfully, they no longer face prison time, have their records expunged, and earn the opportunity to gain access to better-paying jobs to support themselves and their families and become well-rounded citizens. This four-step program notably includes placement in a sober living facility and provides treatment, job placement, and mentorship.
Mr. Phillips designed this unique program alongside another experienced public defender and a retired judge. After more than six months of talking with community members about the concept, they acquired several board members who now serve an instrumental role in his and the organization's success. 1st Step Male Diversion Program Inc. is notably Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits-certified through the state and has maintained a 95% success rate since its inception.
Mr. Phillips' career history included over 15 years of experience as a public defender. During his legal career, he discovered that many individuals lacked the proper tools to succeed. Besides not having good-paying jobs, they suffered from substance abuse, mental health issues, and various family issues that ultimately led to their criminal behavior. Looking toward the future, Mr. Phillips aims to expand by building a campus on the nine-acre plot of land he recently purchased. The campus will house all the program's services at one central location, accommodating 100 to 150 young men at a time. Eventually, Mr. Phillips envisions expanding even further by opening five regional centers nationwide.
Active in his community for many years, Mr. Phillips is a notable member of Rotary International and its local singing group. He has also served as an administrative council member at the United Methodist Church.
Mr. Phillips has held a bachelor's degree in anthropology from the University of Pittsburg since 1974. He notably worked in biomedical research before returning to college to pursue a career in law. Accepted to the University of Oklahoma, Mr. Phillips garnered a Doctor of Jurisprudence in 1990.
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