I am the President, CEO, and Co-Founder of the African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs. With more than 30 years of experience in community economic development, human resources, and business management, I have held leadership positions in a variety of organizations, including statewide economic and community development agencies, national consulting firms, and nonprofit organizations. I was the co-founder and visionary rebrander and the former president/CEO of Carolina Small Business Development Fund, a CDFI and statewide nonprofit organization known for programs related to African American small businesses, women entrepreneurship, veterans, and the Latino/Hispanic community. My work with Historically Black Colleges and Universities within NC has been mentioned as a national model. I have also served as the Chief of Staff for former congresswoman Eva M. Clayton. I am a Senior Pastor Emeritus of New Bethel Baptist Church and a retired Army Viet-Nam Combat Veteran.
Growth Partners Arizona’s Financial Planning Framework For Success
For entrepreneurs, financial planning involves managing cash flow, tax preparation, forecasting growth, and strengthening their business for funding opportunities.
The Community Reinvestment Act: A Promise At Risk
Federal regulators want to scrap the first major CRA update in more than thirty years and drag us back to the rules written in 1995.
Investing In Place, Investing In People: PCR’s New Headquarters
systemic inequities and economic barriers create obstacles that make it challenging to access capital
Redrawing The Lines, Silencing The Voices
While Texas is rewriting the map, the Supreme Court is weighing Callais v. Ardoin, a case from Louisiana
Reclaiming Our Blocks: Homeownership as a Force for Community Renewal
Homeownership plays a critical role in the upkeep and long-term vitality of neighborhoods
Parades Over People
The Army held a $45 million parade to mark its 250th birthday. While framed as a tribute to service, the extravagant event appeared to center largely on spectacle
160 Years After Juneteenth, Houston Leaders Reclaim The Freedom To Build
Just 50 miles from Galveston Island, two community leaders are carrying the torch of freedom through affordable housing, wealth creation and economic development.
How The Big Beautiful Bill Hurts Black America
They call it the “Big Beautiful Bill”, though the name is a cruel contradiction. This bill would remove the social safety net for millions of Americans.
CDFIs are Building a Stronger Economy Through Small Businesses
Nationwide, the CDFI industry manages over $222 billion in mission-driven capital that directly strengthens the U.S. economy.
Crossing The Line: Why Climate Justice Can’t Wait
We saw it clearly when the Environmental Protection Agency froze $20 billion from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF)...