Neil Frauenglass
Chief Marketing Officer
Visit Philadelphia
In celebration of LGBTQIA+ Pride Month, the Chamber is proud of and grateful for all the essential work that queer leaders from our member companies have contributed to the strength, vitality, and growth of the Greater Philadelphia region. This year, we have the privilege of uplifting an incredible leader and champion of a more inclusive Philadelphia, Neil Frauenglass, Chief Marketing Officer, Visit Philadelphia. We interviewed Neil to learn more about his journey and advice for the next generation of LGBTQIA+ leaders.
How has your identity helped shape your leadership style and how has your way of leading positively impacted the communities you serve?
My identity has helped me lead with empathy, edge, and intentionality. As a diverse leader, I’ve always been attuned to the power of representation—and the responsibility to ensure people see themselves reflected in the work. That awareness has fueled a leadership style rooted in collaboration, authenticity, and the belief that inclusive storytelling drives real impact. Whether we are working to stage the world’s largest drag queen storytime at the National Constitution Center, or unveiling a new sculpture celebrating the TQ+ members of the LGBTQ+ community who are facing partially difficult times, our work is about more than visibility—it’s about making space for people to feel seen, safe, and celebrated. That approach builds teams who feel brave enough to push boundaries, and communities who feel welcomed, wanted and respected.
As an advocate for Philadelphia, how is this city and region creating an inclusive space for all people to visit, work, and ultimately live?
Philadelphia is building inclusion not just through its values, but through how its institutions show up for each other. Across tourism, business, culture, and community, we’re moving beyond collaboration toward true integration. Organizations throughout the region are sharing plans early and often—especially when it comes to reaching diverse audiences—so that we’re not duplicating efforts, but building momentum together. A great example is how we extended the Come for Philadelphia, Stay for Philly campaign in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce—reaching visitors, talent, and employers with a unified message that supports visiting, living, and working here. That kind of cross-sector alignment makes our city more accessible, more welcoming, and more effective at delivering real inclusion—not just the idea of it.
What personal and professional advice do you have for the future generations of professionals who are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community?
Own your difference and be true to yourself. It is your strength—not your liability. Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community gives you a unique lens, sharp intuition, and the lived experience of navigating systems not built for you. Use that perspective to lead with purpose, challenge norms, and lift others as you climb. And if you are not invited to the table, build your own table – surround yourself with people who inspire you and who will champion your ideas, even when they’re bold or unconventional. Visibility matters—but impact matters even more. Be fearless in delivering both.
What can our business community do to ensure we are creating a working culture that encourages, protects, and uplifts LGBTQIA+ talent and community?
It starts with listening—but it can’t end there. Uplifting LGBTQIA+ talent requires moving beyond symbolic gestures and embedding equity into culture, policy, and practice. That means hiring queer voices into leadership, funding powerful ideas, and defending their right to be fully themselves—especially in times of social and cultural pushback. It also means creating spaces where happiness, identity, and innovation are not mutually exclusive. At its best, the business community can be a platform for bold storytelling, inclusive economies, and shared progress. But it has to be intentional, accountable, and unafraid to speak up—especially when it matters most.
The Chamber positions diversity, equity, and inclusion as critical for business maturation and growth. Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiative drives economic competitiveness, highlights diverse employee populations, and promotes inclusive growth throughout the Greater Philadelphia region.
