Quarterly USBC Policy & Advocacy Briefing

J.K. Phenix is dedicated to creating pathways for success within underserved communities through his expert work in public policy and the non-profit sector. An alumnus of Georgetown University, he distinguished himself as a Bryce Harlow Fellow while earning his Master of Public Policy and further honed his skills with a certificate in political campaign management from the University of Richmond.

In his pivotal role as Chief of Staff for the U.S. Black Chambers, J.K. champions the growth of over 3.2 million Black-owned businesses nationwide, steering the organization toward fostering inclusive economic policies and services. His leadership extends to guiding the organization's strategic initiatives and daily operations, aligning them with its core objectives. Among his significant contributions are spearheading collaborative efforts with the U.S. Small Business Administration and other key federal entities, initiating a nationwide program to provide Black entrepreneurs with mentorship and resources, and nurturing essential partnerships across the public and private sectors.

J.K. is recognized for his ability to drive meaningful change and produce tangible outcomes in entrepreneurship, workforce development, and housing affordability. His analytical prowess, coupled with his compelling communication abilities, underpins a comprehensive grasp of policy dynamics and the unique circumstances facing marginalized groups. His approach is characterized by an unyielding zest for knowledge, partnership, and innovation.

Jamiyl brings a wealth of experience in government relations and legislative assistance to the Prism Group. Prior to joining our team, he spent two years at Mercury Public Affairs in Washington D.C., where he played a crucial role in government relations.

Gregory Willis is an experienced and accomplished governmental affairs consultant with over two decades of experience in the US Senate, the US House of Representatives, and in the private sector as a government affairs specialist and business consultant. He has over 20 years of experience in Federal procurement, tax, telecommunications, business development, and cybersecurity policy.

Greg began his public service career in Washington as Speech Writer and Counsel to Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) and then became General Counsel and procurement policy advisor to both Chairman John Kerry (D-MA) and Chairwoman Mary Landrieu (D-LA) on the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. He returned to service as the Legislative Director for Rep. Frederica Wilson (D-FL).

In the private sector, he served as Counsel and as Vice President for Business Policy for the US Telecom Association and later he helped launch Bridgestage Capital, a full-service business development, investment, and venture brokerage firm. Greg is an alumnus of Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA and holds a Juris Doctorate from Georgia State University College of Law.

Phillip joined U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. with over 20 years of experience in Supply Chain Governance, Finance, Audit & Internal Controls in both the Energy and Aerospace & Defense industries. In addition, Phillip has passionately served the community for more than 5 years connecting Black-Owned Businesses and consumers across the United States through his work with the Black Business Focus Group and demonstrating his commitment to transforming impoverished communities through economic empowerment. Phillip is a member of the Houston Chapter of the National Black MBA Association and a member of the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce.

Phillip currently serves as Program Manager with the United States Black Chambers, Inc where he is responsible for the coordination and administration of all aspects of ongoing programs, maintaining relationships with various stakeholders, and implementing strategies to better engage with Local Chamber partners and their member businesses. Phillip studied Accounting and Criminal Justice at Sam Houston State University and earned an MBA from the University of St. Thomas and holds multiple professional certifications. Phillip and his lovely wife Shebia have four children.