TULSA, OK, July 03, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Marquis Who's Who, the world's premier publisher of biographical profiles, is proud to present David C. Phillips III with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award. 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 has dedicated over four decades to a career marked by significant contributions to the fields of law and social justice. As the chief executive officer of 1st Step Male Diversion Program Inc. since 2018, he has been leading an initiative that provides transformative opportunities for men who have faced incarceration. This program, which he helped establish in 2016, offers a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation, focusing on education, counseling and life skills development. The program's success is evident in its impressive 95% success rate, a testament to Mr. Phillips's innovative leadership and commitment to social change.

Before his current role, Mr. Phillips served as a public defender for 15 years until his retirement in 2017. His tenure in this position was characterized by a steadfast dedication to advocating for those who often lacked representation. Mr. Phillips also spent 30 years as a defense attorney, where he developed a profound understanding of the criminal justice system.

Mr. Phillips's career began in the field of biomedical research. He worked as a research technician at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation and Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh. His scientific background provided him with a unique perspective when he transitioned into law, allowing him to approach legal challenges with analytical precision and innovative problem-solving skills.

Laying the foundation for his diverse career path, Mr. Phillips received a bachelor's degree in anthropology from the University of Pittsburgh in 1974 and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from the University of Oklahoma in 1990. These academic achievements equipped him with a broad understanding of human behavior and societal structures, which have been instrumental in his efforts to reform criminal justice practices.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Mr. Phillips is actively involved in civic organizations, including Rotary International. He also serves as an administrative council member at the United Methodist Church. These affiliations reflect his dedication to community service and personal growth.

Throughout his career, Mr. Phillips has been influenced by strong familial values and mentors who instilled in him the importance of education and perseverance. His father's determination for all his children to pursue higher education was a driving force behind Mr. Phillips's own academic and professional pursuits.

The highlight of Mr. Phillips's career is undoubtedly the establishment of the 1st Step Male Diversion Program Inc., which he describes as a pathway to a flourishing life. This program not only rehabilitates but also habilitates individuals by providing them with the tools necessary for long-term success and well-being. Inspired by similar initiatives for women, Mr. Phillips took action when no one else did, placing the first participant into the program immediately after retiring from public defense.

Looking ahead, Mr. Phillips envisions expanding the program's reach by building a centralized campus that integrates all aspects of their services. He also hopes for broader changes in societal attitudes towards justice and aims to see more programs like his established nationwide. Mr. Phillips's legacy is one of integrity and compassion. His life's work serves as a reminder of the profound influence one individual can have on countless lives through dedication and empathy.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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