Accomplished Nonprofit Executive to Lead Advancing Macomb’s Next Chapter

Mount Clemens, Mich. (Dec. 12, 2023) – Advancing Macomb, a 501c3 that convenes resources to solve community challenges and enrich the lives of Macomb County residents, has named long-serving nonprofit executive Phil Gilchrist as its new executive director.

In his new role, Gilchrist will lead all aspects of Advancing Macomb, including program oversight, financial administration, strategic planning and execution, marketing and public relations.

Gilchrist brings an extensive background in nonprofit management, fundraising and community development, which will help further advance Advancing Macomb’s mission. Previously, Gilchrist served as executive director of the Anton Art Center in Mount Clemens, where he secured funding for new and innovative programming and grew the organization from a small, hyper-local community art center to a regional anchor arts institution. Gilchrist also served as a development specialist for Pewabic in Detroit and as a director of operations at the Wayne State University School of Medicine.

“We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Phil Gilchrist as Advancing Macomb’s new executive director,” said Brian Pilarski, board chair of Advancing Macomb. “With a tremendous background in nonprofit leadership and strong ties to our nonprofit community in Macomb and the Greater Detroit region, Phil is well positioned to lead Advancing Macomb toward greater impact.”

“There are tremendous opportunities for Advancing Macomb to grow and strengthen its nonprofit capacity building and community development efforts,” said Gilchrist. “I am excited to lead Advancing Macomb into this next chapter.”

Gilchrist is an active member of the community, serving as a founding board member and the first president of Macomb County Pride, as well as a member and former president of the Mount Clemens Kiwanis Club. He also serves on several boards, including the Macomb County Art Institute Authority, the Mount Clemens Downtown Develop Authority and CultureSource.

Gilchrist holds a Master of Public Administration with a focus on nonprofit management from Wayne State University. He also holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Northern Michigan University.

Press release:

Advancing Macomb Names Phil Gilchrist Executive Director FINAL 12-12-2023