About Us
Empowering communities through sustainable economic growth and development. We are committed to fostering innovation, creating jobs, and enhancing quality of life by collaborating with local partners to drive economic opportunities, promote social well-being, and ensure a thriving future for all.
Our Team
Dr. Marlies A. Leggette
President
Dr. Marlies A. Leggette is a seasoned nonprofit leader and consultant with more than two decades of experience in fundraising, program management, and organizational development. She has successfully secured funding for seminaries, churches, grassroots and community-based organizations, with a proven record of managing complex cooperative agreements, budgets, and regranting initiatives.
​
In addition to her leadership work, Dr. Leggette has spent many years as a nonprofit consultant, helping faith-based and community organizations increase giving, improve compliance, and adopt innovative tools for fundraising and engagement. Her background as an educator further reflects her commitment to building strong, informed, and thriving communities.
​
Dr. Leggette holds a Ph.D. in Christian Counseling and a B.S. in English Teaching from Fayetteville State University. She is also a Certified Nonprofit Accounting Professional (CNAP) and has earned advanced certifications in nonprofit management and leadership from Duke University and the NC Center for Nonprofit Management.
​
Most importantly, she loves God and treasures her role as wife to Dr. Timothy Leggette and as a proud mother to their children, which she considers her greatest joy and accomplishment.
Anessa Cruz
Vice President
Originally from California, a devoted wife, mother, and woman of faith. Anessa’s love for God is the foundation of her life. She strives to live out her faith in both her personal and professional endeavors, believing that serving others and making a positive impact is a reflection of God’s love. Her family and faith provide her with constant inspiration and strength as she works to create lasting change in her community.
​
Anessa holds a Bachelor's Degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, with a minor in Business, from Northern Arizona University. With over five years of experience in the Food and Beverage industry, she has successfully transitioned her skills into the nonprofit sector, focusing on strategic operations, community engagement, and sustainable development.
​
As Vice President, Anessa leads the organization’s efforts to drive lasting change, ensuring that its programs and initiatives have a meaningful, positive impact on the community. Her diverse background, combined with her deep commitment to community empowerment and faith-driven values, make her an essential part of the nonprofit's leadership team.
Timothy Leggette, PhD, ThD
Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Timothy Leggette is a pastor, counselor, and nonprofit leader with more than two decades of experience in ministry, counseling, and community engagement. He is widely respected for his trauma-informed pastoral care, leadership in faith communities, and dedication to creating safe, supportive environments for individuals and families in crisis.
​
As CEO of Nexus, Dr. Leggette brings both academic expertise and practical leadership, holding dual doctorates in Christian Counseling (PhD) and Theology (ThD). His career has included serving as Senior Pastor of His Grace Anew, where he guides congregational life, community outreach, and food security initiatives. He has also worked alongside the justice system, providing counseling, mentorship, and reentry support to individuals navigating life transitions.
​
Dr. Leggette’s commitment to service extends beyond the pulpit—he has trained future ministry leaders, conducted outreach in schools, and fostered unity across diverse communities. Passionate about restoration and transformation, he continues to use his skills to empower people, strengthen families, and build bridges of hope.
​
Most importantly, he treasures his role as husband to Dr. Marlies Leggette and raising their children together, a calling he considers his greatest blessing.
Director of Programming
DaMiko Cruz
Director of Operations
Kendrick Petty
Outreach & Engagement Coordinator
Deondra McMillan