Dr. Kevin Phillipson is a lifelong entrepreneur who started his first business at the age of 12 and has been primarily self-employed ever since. Over the years, he has owned and operated companies in the technology, media, finance, and construction sectors and currently leads ventures in food and beverage, travel, human performance, and consulting.
He is a Professor of Entrepreneurship at McMurry University in Abilene, Texas, where he is also the Center for Business Excellence Director and Coordinator of the School of Business Study Abroad program.
Dr. Phillipson earned a Doctorate in Business Administration with research focused on entrepreneurship and human performance. He also holds master’s degrees in business administration, sports management, and marketing, and a bachelor’s degree. His academic research complements his teaching, and he is currently completing his first book, which aims to inspire young adults.
He is a member of Sigma Beta Delta, the International Honor Society for Business, Management, and Administration, and an honorary member of Alpha Beta Kappa National Honor Society. His honors include the Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) and Leadership Excellence Award from Toastmasters International, as well as the Lions International Ralph Helm Fellowship Award.
Dr. Phillipson has also contributed extensively to service and leadership organizations. He is a former board member of the National Small College Rugby Organization (now National College Rugby) and a founding board member of the First State Military Academy, a Marine Corps JROTC charter school. He served as a U.S. Air Force Honorary Commander at Dover Air Force Base with the 512th MSG (2015–2016) and at Dyess Air Force Base with the 345th BS (2023–2024). A veteran of the South African Army, he received the Commanding Officer’s Commendation Award. He also served as a sworn Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for foster children.
Beyond his professional and service commitments, Dr. Phillipson’s greatest joy is his family. He and his wife, Angie, married in 2006, have seven children and five grandchildren, and they share their home with three Golden Retrievers. They are also affectionately considered “mom and dad” by many young people around the world.
Dr. Phillipson, born in South Africa, immigrated to the United States in 1992, became a U.S. citizen in 2004, and proudly calls Texas home.