Garry Gilliam is a visionary leader, social entrepreneur, and former NFL athlete who has dedicated his post-sports career to building sustainable ecosystems for urban renewal. As the Founder and CEO of The Bridge Eco-Village, Garry leads a transformative “work-eat-live-learn-play” social enterprise designed to bridge the gap between underserved communities and the resources they need to thrive. His unique background (spanning three degrees in Business Management, Advertising, and Psychology from Pennsylvania State University and a professional football career with teams like the Seattle Seahawks) allows him to blend high-performance psychology with strategic community development. A “Seahawks Legend” both on and off the field, Garry is a frequent speaker at corporate, non-profit, and military events, where he shares insights on leadership, systemic equity, and the power of social impact.

Beyond the boardroom, Garry serves as the Vice President for the NFLPA Seattle Chapter and as the Chairman of the Empower at The Bridge Foundation, further cementing his commitment to philanthropy and community advocacy. His speaking engagements often dive into the intersection of sustainability and social justice, drawing from his hands-on experience navigating the complexities of real estate development and non-profit leadership. Whether addressing executive boards or community organizers, Garry brings an authentic, mission-driven perspective rooted in the belief that holistic development is the key to lasting societal change. Based in the Pacific Northwest, he continues to champion projects that empower individuals to reach their full potential while fostering resilient, self-sufficient neighborhoods.