The Forum for Youth Investment proudly welcomes Phillip M. Robinson, Jr. as our new Chief Executive Officer. A seasoned leader with over 15 years of cross-sector experience, Phil officially steps into the role on June 30, 2025. His appointment follows a national search led by the Forum’s Board of Directors and signals an exciting new chapter in our mission to support young people and the adults who work with them. Phil brings a rare blend of executive leadership, nonprofit strategy, and public policy expertise to this role. His experience spans roles as Chief Impact Officer at Reading Partners, senior leadership at City Year, and service as a current member of the Ohio House of Representatives. At each step, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing opportunity, equity, and systems change for young people and the adults who support them.

“This is a pivotal time. People are looking for connection, for clarity, and for solutions—and I believe the Forum can be that steady force,” said Phil Robinson. “With a strong team, trusted tools, and the courage to reimagine how systems work for youth, we have everything we need to move from crisis response to lasting change. I’m excited to get to work.”

Phil’s appointment reflects the Forum’s forward-looking strategy to expand its national impact by centering systems alignment, continuous improvement, and policy. With the tools, approaches, and principles of the Weikart Center, we’ll continue grounding our work in the best available research to drive meaningful, lasting change. Under Phil’s leadership, the Forum will deepen its commitment to scaling this work—expanding access to proven strategies, training, and coaching—while forging new partnerships that align policy with practice to create lasting change for young people across the country. 

“Phil brings a deep commitment to the outcomes the Forum has always championed—stronger systems, better opportunities, and equitable outcomes for all youth,” said Bryan Samuels, Chair of the Forum’s Board of Directors. “There’s a real sense of alignment—between Phil’s leadership and the Forum’s history, and between where we’ve been and where we’re headed.”

Phil succeeds Judy Seltz, who served as Interim President & CEO and helped steward the Forum during a period of organizational transition. The Board and staff extend their deep appreciation for her steady leadership and long-standing commitment to the Forum’s mission.

We are also grateful to the Forum’s staff for their unwavering dedication and resilience. Their insight and engagement were essential to the CEO search process and remain central to the organization’s continued strength.

This leadership transition marks an exciting new chapter—one grounded in our mission to ensure that all young people have what they need to learn, grow, and lead. We invite you to join us in welcoming Phil and to stay connected as we move forward together.