Phil has been involved with public education for over 20 years. He was elected to two six year terms on the Independence School District Board of Education where he served as Board President, Vice President and Treasurer. During his tenure on the Board of Education he witnesses the school district flourish into one of the most respected districts in the state. Most recently Phil has enjoyed a long and successful career in the fundraising business helping schools and other non profit organizations raise much needed dollars for various projects, trips and other goals.

Actively involved in his community, he has served as President of the Independence Rotary Club and has been a member of several other community organizations including Youth Friends, CAPA, Independence Youth Court and CASA.