Community Spotlight: James Nortey

and the New Vision for the Eastside

Since stepping into the role of CEO at San Antonio for Growth on the Eastside (SAGE) in January 2024, James Nortey has become a pivotal force in reshaping the narrative of one of the city’s most culturally rich neighborhoods. A lawyer by trade and the son of Ghanaian immigrants, Nortey brings a unique blend of corporate discipline and grassroots empathy to the table—qualities that are already yielding tangible results for the community.

A Leadership Rooted in Listening

Nortey’s approach is refreshingly grounded. “True leadership is about recognizing gaps and responding with empathy,” Nortey shared.

For Nortey, this means spending as much time listening to local business owners and residents as he does in boardrooms. His mission is clear: foster economic development and cultural vitality without displacement.

Major Wins for 2025 and 2026

Under Nortey’s guidance, SAGE has secured significant federal support to turn ambitious visions into reality:

  • The “Reconnecting Communities” Project: In early 2025, SAGE was awarded a $2 million federal grant to study how to bridge the highway barriers (I-10, I-35, and I-37) that have long separated the Eastside from downtown. The goal is to create green spaces and pedestrian-friendly corridors similar to Dallas’s Klyde Warren Park.
  • Small Business Injection: In November 2025, the organization secured an $800,000 grant to provide affordable capital and mentorship to local entrepreneurs, ensuring that neighborhood staples—from restaurants to childcare providers—have the resources to thrive.
  • Cultural Revitalization: Beyond the balance sheets, Nortey has championed the Cultural and Historical Markers Program, installing murals and sculptures that honor the Eastside’s deep-rooted history.
Looking Ahead

As we look toward the State of the Eastside address in May 2026, Nortey remains focused on “sustainable growth that reflects the people who call it home.” Whether it’s planning the new East Side public market or revitalizing storefronts, his leadership is a testament to the power of community-grounded investment.

“Community-grounded capital can change how opportunity reaches people. For our team, it’s all about walking alongside our entrepreneurs as they grow.” — James Nortey, CEO

For more information on SAGE’s upcoming projects or to see how you can get involved, visit sagesa.org.

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Denise E. Bennett
Consultant

As a specialized writer of grants, policies, procedures and well-told stories, Denise’s career spans more than 35 years of for-profit and nonprofit experience in the medical, banking and social services professions. Her financial acuity and love of writing led her to a successful career in grant writing and nonprofit fundraising. Denise has significant experience in fund development, grant writing and management, as well as operations oversight for a variety of nonprofit organizations. An achievement-focused innovator, she is a strong collaborator and strategic thinker, able to resolve workplace challenges. Denise is a graduate of Belmont University and has an MBA from Keller School of Management.

M. Leslie Palmer
Founding Principal | Managing Consultant

With decades of for-profit and nonprofit experience, Leslie shares her expertise and partners with other strong practitioners to help grow the capacity and success of the nonprofit community. Leslie brings practical experience to clients, having served on numerous boards of nonprofit organizations. Leslie has significant experiences on the other side of the table, as well, having worked in leadership and management for organizations like Boys and Girls Clubs of San Antonio, American Red Cross, City Year San Antonio and World Affairs Council of San Antonio. Leslie is a dedicated maven, leader, and perceptor who strives to embolden clients to achieve their goals. Originally from Newport, RI, Leslie is a graduate of Villanova University.