John Tillman has been called a Social Entrepreneur. Armed with a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) from The University of Texas and a Certification as an Economic Development Finance Professional, John has always sought to apply his knowledge and expertise in ways that address social needs and enhance the quality of life for others.

In 1998, John read a headline that stated that 55% of African American males in the county where he grew up were performing below grade level on end of grade tests putting them at risk of failing and dropping out of school. Appalled and unwilling to sit idly by, John developed a tutoring company to offer professional educational services in a supportive environment. Services included academic assessments, study skills training, one on one tutoring, computer training and

SAT Prep. By partnering with schools and other social services agencies, John found a way to make high quality, individualized services available and affordable for students with the highest needs and lowest amount of resources. More than 90% of participants in his programs achieved passing scores on end of grade exams.

Upon discovering that a number of communities were not receiving much needed mental health services, John founded what grew to become one of the largest and most respected, community-based mental health companies in the state. Using a franchise model, John eventually established offices in 13 cities and employed approximately 400 psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, case managers, educators and other behavioral staff.

In addition to founding four companies, John’s professional experience includes serving as Chief Executive Officer for a management consulting firm, executive director of a community development corporation, counselor and program manager for a career and leadership development company, business and marketing instructor for a community college, and business coach and consultant for small and mid-sized businesses, and mentor to dozens of entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses.

John has served on numerous state and local boards and committees including the Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Health, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Cultural Competency Committee, North Carolina Mental Health Planning and Advisory Council, United Way Board of Directors, Union County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, South Piedmont Community College Board, and Union Academy Charter School Board.

In 1992 John had the distinguished honor of representing the United States of America at the 1992 Olympic Games held in Barcelona Spain. He competed in the Triple Jump of Track and Field.