Builders of Hope CDC Announces CEO Transition, Names Interim Leadership
DALLAS — Builders of Hope CDC, a leading community development nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to affordable housing and building neighborhood preservation and capacity, announced today that President and CEO James Armstrong III will step down in October 2025. Armstrong has accepted a new leadership role with the City of Dallas leading the Housing and Homelessness division as Deputy Director.
Armstrong’s departure follows nearly eight years of leadership, during which Builders of Hope developed more than $25 million in affordable housing, created over $3 million in wealth and equity for low- to moderate-income families, and has emerged as a leading practitioner in the community development and affordable housing sector.
“Eight years ago, I noticed many broken walls in my community of West Dallas and felt compelled to act. That act has now created a model for community transformation. Having the opportunity to build quality housing and strong neighborhoods across Dallas county has been the privilege of a lifetime. I’m eternally grateful for the support of the BOH team, sponsors, partners, and community leaders that fortified our mission. I also want to thank City Manager Kim Tolbert for her vote of confidence, and I look forward to serving the citizens of our great city,” Armstrong said.
To ensure continuity and stability, the Board of Directors has appointed Christopher Lewis as Interim President and CEO, effective October 15, 2025. Lewis, a U.S. Navy veteran and native Southern Dallas resident, joined Builders of Hope in 2023 and currently oversees all housing development efforts, including construction and administration.
With a background in engineering and public service — including service on the Dallas Housing Finance Corporation and the City Plan Commission — Lewis has led the expansion of BOH’s housing pipeline to over 200 units across Southern Dallas and Farmers Branch.
“I’m deeply honored by the faith James and our Board of Directors have placed in me to lead Builders of Hope through this transition. What excites me most is expanding our proven model to more communities throughout Dallas County while strengthening our position as affordable housing leaders and creating meaningful opportunities for the families we serve,” Lewis said.
Board Chair Alta Mantsch emphasized the organization’s strength and vision heading into this new chapter.
“Builders of Hope has been actively investing in building a team of leaders for years. Combined with that depth of talent, the clarity of our strategic direction, and a deep-rooted commitment to our values, we are not only ready, but poised for continued impact in the communities we serve. I am excited for our future,” Mantsch said.
Alongside Lewis, Stephanie Champion will continue to serve as a key leader in community development and external relations, reinforcing BOH’s commitment to grassroots engagement and stakeholder trust. The board will name a permanent President and CEO in 2026.
Builders of Hope’s ongoing work includes affordable housing development in Pleasant Grove, Farmers Branch, and Southern Dallas, and the upcoming completion of its first multi-family construction project. The organization also continues to lead policy and preservation initiatives through the Dallas Neighborhood Anti-Displacement Toolkit: A Right to Stay, launched in 2024
To learn more about Builders of Hope CDC and its programs, visit www.bohcdc.com.
Media Contact:
Sophia Goines
Operations Director
info@bohcdc.com