Greenwood Legacy Corporation Announces 501(c)(3) Status and Names National Community Development Leader John Hall as Inaugural Executive Director

TULSA, Okla. — [December 3, 2025] — The Greenwood Legacy Corporation announced two major milestones that signal a new phase of growth and momentum for the implementation of the Kirkpatrick Heights/Greenwood Master Plan: approval of its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and the appointment of its inaugural executive director, national housing leader John Hall.

Courtesy of FOX23.com News Staff

Local leaders, residents and partners gathered in Greenwood for the announcement, which marks a significant step forward in bringing the community-driven master plan into action.

Board Chair Lana Turner-Addison opened the event by emphasizing the significance of both milestones.

“Today is a moment of both celebration and commitment,” Turner-Addison said. “Receiving our 501(c)(3) designation and welcoming our first executive director represents the stability, structure and leadership this work deserves. John Hall brings the national experience, the community-centered values and the steady vision required to move the master plan from hope to action. The future of Greenwood and north Tulsa shines brighter than ever. Under John’s leadership, we’re charging ahead with unwavering clarity and energy.”

The Kirkpatrick Heights/Greenwood Master Plan was developed through extensive engagement with residents, descendants, business owners and neighborhood organizations. It outlines a long-term strategy for equitable development that includes new housing options, mixed-use spaces, cultural and economic destinations, and green space designed to honor Greenwood’s history.

With its nonprofit status now in place, the Greenwood Legacy Corporation can expand fundraising efforts, strengthen partnerships and support the next phase of implementation.

Speaking on behalf of Mayor Monroe Nichols, Deputy Chief of Staff, Brentom Todd reaffirmed the city’s support for the effort.

“The appointment of John Hall marks a transformative moment for Greenwood and for Tulsa as a whole,” Todd said. “This master plan represents a powerful model for community-driven development, and the city is committed to being an active partner in its implementation. John’s decades of experience in housing, revitalization and equitable growth arrive at exactly the right time. We look forward to working alongside him to turn this vision into lasting impact.”

Hall brings more than 25 years of leadership in affordable housing, community economic development and public-sector innovation. His experience includes producing more than 1,400 units of housing, leading award-winning redevelopment projects, revitalizing neighborhoods nationwide and managing more than $10 billion in public and federal resources.

“I am privileged and honored to serve a community that is committed to altering the course of its history and providing growth opportunities,” Hall said. “The Kirkpatrick Heights/Greenwood Master Plan is one of the most thoughtful, community-centered visions I have seen in my career. My life’s work has been dedicated to creating opportunity, alleviating poverty and revitalizing neighborhoods, and this role is a natural extension of that mission.”

Hall also shared his enthusiasm for relocating to Tulsa.

“I am excited to become a resident of Tulsa, to listen deeply and to work alongside residents, descendants, partners and local leaders to build a future worthy of Greenwood’s past,” he said. “This opportunity is more than a move; it is a commitment to work daily on behalf of Greenwood residents to realize the vision that was clearly articulated in the master plan.”

Turner-Addison closed the event by reaffirming the importance of collaboration.

“The implementation of this master plan is rooted in partnership,” she said. “Building intergenerational wealth for Black families requires bold action now, shared prosperity, informed stewardship, and a steadfast belief in the potential of every family to thrive together. Today marks a strong step forward in that shared journey.”