Evelyn Sample-Oates is often described as a bridge builder, a motivator, a mover and shaker, a person of resource, the consummate advocate for the voiceless and ambassador for the hopeless. She is one of the “Go-To” people in Philadelphia to get the job done, according to the Philadelphia Tribune newspaper.
Evelyn has dedicated her career to service to the city of Philadelphia. Born and raised in West Philadelphia, she spent more than a decade working for the School District of Philadelphia before transitioning to leadership positions at local nonprofits: first the Fairmount Park Conservancy, and since last summer, at OIC of America. At OICA she carries on the legacy of founder Rev. Dr. Leon H. Sullivan, a towering international civil rights leader.
With Evelyn as Senior Vice President, OIC of America positions the workforce of today, tomorrow and the future to harness their economic power into political power. In her view, with the right training and tools, historically oppressed people can use their talent to have the strongest influence on policy and cultural change.
Through a career spent in Philly, as well as longtime service to her beloved Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Evelyn has built a deep and influential network of colleagues and friends whom she regularly taps in the interest of enriching the lives and economic well-being of forgotten people in forgotten places. Since bringing Evelyn on board, OIC of America has reestablished the deep Philadelphia roots planted by Rev. Sullivan, for the benefit of those across the Delaware Valley.
She has more than 25 years of executive leadership in both non-profit and for-profit organizations. Prior to accepting the role at OICA, Mrs. Sample-Oates served as Chief of Communications, Chief of Family and Community Engagement and Executive Director of Government Relations and Advocacy for the School District of Philadelphia.
Sample-Oates proudly serves on The National Board of Trustees for the Boys & Girls Club of America. She is deeply involved in community service and holds membership in Jack & Jill of America and The Links, Incorporated. Additionally, she is an officer in her beloved church, Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church in Philadelphia.
She is a proud graduate of the American University in Washington, DC where she received her degree in Broadcast Journalism with a minor in Business Administration. She has been married for 25 years to her best friend, Dr. Patrick Oates. Her biggest, brightest, and proudest accomplishment to date is being the mother of two wonderful children.
