About Joe
What I do
Joe Dillard is a dynamic leader with a passion for public service and community engagement. He currently serves as the Director of Government & External Affairs at GRTC, where he is responsible for spearheading the creation of the agency's equity approach and establishing a new legislative affairs office. In 2022, Joe also took on the role of FOIA and EEOC Officer, demonstrating his commitment to transparency and equal opportunity within the organization. With a strong commitment to inclusion, Joe bridges departments, fostering a culture that embraces these values throughout the organization. He also enjoys traveling the world and experiencing different cultures, transportation, and foods.
Prior to his role at GRTC, Joe served as the Organizational Advancement Officer at Hampton Roads Transit, where he directed and managed strategies to propel the agency towards its vision, mission, and objectives. His remarkable achievements include securing a dedicated funding stream of $31 million annually for transit in the greater Hampton Roads region and securing over $25 million in various one-time state funding opportunities for public transportation in the area. At the federal level, Joe successfully lobbied for the inclusion of several earmarks aimed at benefiting public transportation in southeast Virginia.
With his exceptional track record and relentless dedication, Joe Dillard continues to make invaluable contributions to the advancement of equitable and efficient public transportation systems, enhancing accessibility and connectivity for communities across the region.
Who I am
Joe Dillard's educational and professional achievements exemplify his commitment to personal growth and excellence. He earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Norfolk State University in 2012, followed by the completion of his coursework for a Master's Degree in Urban Affairs in 2014. In 2015, Joe further honed his leadership skills as a graduate of the University of Virginia Sorensen Institute of Political Leadership.
Recognizing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, Joe actively pursued additional educational opportunities. In 2021, he successfully completed the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program at the University of South Florida. Continuing his commitment to cultivating inclusive environments, Joe participated in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Public Managers program at Rutgers University in 2022. Graduating from the Executive Leadership Program at Cornell University in September 2022 marked a significant milestone in Joe's career, further expanding his knowledge and expertise in leadership.
The Executive Leadership Program at Cornell University equipped Joe with advanced leadership skills and strategic thinking capabilities necessary for senior executive roles. The program's rigorous curriculum and immersive learning experiences provided Joe with a comprehensive understanding of executive decision-making processes, organizational dynamics, and effective leadership strategies. Graduating from the program not only enhanced Joe's professional credibility but also positioned him as a strategic leader capable of driving organizational success and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
Joe's graduation from the Executive Leadership Program at Cornell University underscores his commitment to continuous learning and professional development. It reflects his dedication to acquiring the knowledge and skills needed to lead organizations effectively in today's complex and dynamic business environment. Joe's accomplishment demonstrates his readiness to take on new challenges and his unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth.
Joe is also a communication DISC Practitioner who helps guide strategic communication from the c-suite to internal staff and external stakeholders. His professional achievements have not gone unnoticed. In 2016, he was ranked number eight in the Historical Black College & Universities (HBCU) Top 30 under 30, acknowledging his outstanding contributions and leadership within the HBCU community. In 2018, Joe's dedication and accomplishments led to his recognition as one of Inside Business Hampton Roads' Top 40 under 40. He has also been an active member of prestigious leadership programs, including the LEAD Peninsula Class of 2016 and the LEAD 757 Class of 2021.
Joe's commitment to public service is evident through his involvement in various boards and commissions at the city, regional, and state levels. His contributions have extended to organizations such as the Norfolk Redevelopment Housing Authority, Hampton Roads Regional Arena Authority, and the Virginia NAACP Political Action Committee, where he has made a significant impact on community development and social justice initiatives.
Through his continuous pursuit of knowledge, professional accolades, and dedicated community service, Joe Dillard exemplifies the values of leadership, lifelong learning, and inclusive engagement. His multifaceted expertise and unwavering commitment make him an invaluable asset to the organizations and communities he serves.
Things I love
Joe is not only dedicated to his professional endeavors but also finds joy and fulfillment in his personal life. He shares a blissful marriage with his partner, Lauren, whose support and companionship are invaluable to him. Lauren is a Tax Allocation Officer for Virginia Housing, and after Joe has served on a local housing authority, they often find themselves trying to incorporate both housing and transportation as one for accessibility for all.
Joe has a passion for traveling the world and experiencing different cultures, food, and transportation. He believes that traveling has shaped his understanding of how poverty is defined in different countries and equips him to ensure that he advocates for communities that are often left voiceless.
In all aspects of his life, Joe remains committed to making a positive impact on those around him. Whether it's through his work, community involvement, or personal relationships, he consistently strives to uplift and improve the lives of others. Joe's genuine passion for creating a better world is an inspiration to those who know him, and he eagerly looks forward to the opportunities that lie ahead, where he can continue to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities alike.