Our Leaders: Who’s Behind the Mission 

Ascension’s Board of Directors reflects disciplined leadership and a shared commitment to expanding attainable homeownership across Charlotte. Guided by Founder James Scruggs, a socially oriented real estate developer, and led by CEO Torrey Feimster, whose experience in impact investing and community development strengthens execution, the Board provides both strategic direction and strong governance. Bringing expertise across development, finance, and civic leadership, each member contributes to thoughtful decision-making, financial stewardship, and long-term sustainability. Together, they ensure Ascension remains focused on building high-quality, mixed-income communities while equipping working families to become mortgage-ready and positioned for generational wealth.

Through strong oversight and public-private alignment, the Board advances Ascension’s mission to deliver scalable housing solutions and inclusive economic mobility in Charlotte.

Board of Directors

  • Hugh McColl Jr

    As Co-Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Falfurrias Capital Partners, Hugh McColl Sr. III's business acumen and leadership experience provide a solid foundation for Ascension’s strategic direction and long-term sustainability.

  • James Scruggs

    As the Founder of Ascension and CEO of Kingdom Development Partners, James Scruggs brings a wealth of experience in real estate development. His leadership has been pivotal in the establishment of Ascension, and his dedication to the Charlotte community is evident through his ongoing contributions to local development and housing initiatives.

  • Liz Ward

    Liz Ward, the founder of Give Impact Advisory Services, is known for her strategic approach to philanthropy and community service. Her experience in impact advisory positions her as a valuable asset to Ascension, guiding our strategies to deliver meaningful community benefits.

  • Charles Woodyard

    Charles Woodyard, serving as the President and CEO of Charlotte Housing Authority, offers a deep understanding of housing policy and development. His expertise is instrumental in aligning Ascension’s goals with broader housing initiatives for greater community impact.

  • Greg Kilpatrick

    A Partner and Chair of Securities and Capital Markets at McGuireWoods, Greg Kilpatrick's legal acumen and capital markets expertise are invaluable to Ascension. His guidance ensures that our financial strategies and governance are executed with the utmost integrity and foresight.

  • Torrey Feimster, CEO

    Torrey Feimster serves as CEO of Ascension Community Development Corporation, leading the organization’s mission to expand attainable homeownership and accelerate generational wealth for Charlotte’s missing middle. Previously at Global Endowment Management (GEM), a $12 billion institutional investment firm, Torrey developed an impact investing lens that integrates disciplined capital strategy with measurable social outcomes. He brings that perspective to Ascension—aligning public-private partnerships, advancing mixed-income housing development, and equipping working families to become mortgage-ready, bankable homeowners positioned for long-term equity growth.