Urban Arts CEO Recognized for Visionary Leadership and Transformative Impact
New York, NY—June 9, 2025—Urban Arts proudly announces that its Chief Executive Officer, Philip Courtney, has been named a Notable Leader in Philanthropy by Crain’s New York Business, a prestigious recognition honoring individuals who are driving meaningful change and championing social good across New York City.
Under Philip’s leadership, Urban Arts has emerged as a powerful force for equity and opportunity, particularly among underserved communities. Since stepping into the role in 2003, Philip has overseen explosive growth, producing profound mobility and personal success for students, including:
- Winning a 3rd highly competitive $4M Education Innovation & Research (EIR) grant from the U.S. DoE (totaling $12M),
- Stewarding the Creative Coders partnership with Minecraft Education serving middle schools nationwide,
- Gaining the College Board endorsement of Urban Arts’ #STEAM curriculum that’s shared freely with all Title 1 schools,
- Crafting a college access program that has 100% of seniors matriculating to college.
“Thank you, Crain’s New York Business, for naming me one of your Notable Leaders in Philanthropy. I’m honored—and more importantly, I’m proud of what this recognition represents for Urban Arts. At Urban Arts we constantly adapt and innovate our programs in order to meet the moment and achieve the very best results for our students. Teaching video game design isn’t just a fun way to learn computer science, arts and leadership skills, it provides a pathway to college and career, and ultimately economic mobility.
Our students aren’t just learners—they’re gamechangers. They’re rewriting what’s possible, both for themselves and for the tech industry. Today, our alumni are studying neuroscience, animation, engineering, and yes—game design—at institutions across the country. Thanks to their talent and drive (and a little help from us), they’ve earned more than $46 million in scholarships, including full rides this year to Harvard, NYU, BU, Brown, Wesleyan, and Tufts.
None of this happens without an extraordinary team. To our brilliant and tireless staff, our visionary board, and the students who challenge and inspire us daily—thank you. This recognition is yours, too.”
As CEO of Urban Arts, Philip has combined strategic vision with a deep commitment to education to scale high-impact initiatives in arts and technology [STEAM], college access, and early career mentorship—all through digital game design. This award acknowledges not only philanthropic leadership, but also the power of innovation to drive systemic change.
Urban Arts serves city youth annually through free after-school programs and camps, preparing the next generation of creatively confident and technically expert gamechangers.
The Notable Leaders in Philanthropy list celebrates individuals who exemplify excellence, accountability and commitment to equity. Honorees are selected based on their professional achievements, measurable community impact, and dedication to fostering a more just and inclusive New York City.
About Urban Arts
Urban Arts teaches digital game design as a pathway to college and career. We teach high-level STEAM skills through the power of play. We provide top tier college-access services and ensure our students earn the maximum in scholarships. We connect our students and alumni to mentorships and internships at leading media and technology companies, generating a new talent pipeline.
Our programs prepare students for college and careers in STEAM fields—combining tech, art, and storytelling to unlock the power of possibility.
Game changers start here.
Media Contact:
Jen Walter, Director of Marketing and Communications
jen@urbanarts.org
212-966-5881 x9009
