Meet Ivan W. Holloway, the Executive Director of Urban Impact. Having extensive experience in Community Economic Financial Services, he has previously held roles such as Executive Director of A Step Forward, Vice President and Managing Director of Seedco Financial Alabama (TruFund Financial), and Assistant City Planner of Athens, AL. Ivan’s work and passions have allowed him to work across the country and even to South Africa. Currently, he serves on the United Way Visiting Allocation Team, is a Deacon and Treasurer at the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, and a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Ivan is married to Deborah F. Stoves, who is a high school Media Specialist at Ramsay High School. They have twin sons, Ivan Travis and Evan Lloyd, both seniors at Alabama A&M University. 

Meet Carla Youngblood, a Certified Public Accountant and Urban Impact’s Operations Director. Born and raised in Birmingham, Carla is a proud Alumna of Phillips High School and Birmingham-Southern College, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Additionally, she graduated from the University of Alabama-Birmingham with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication. Carla started her career in the Historic Fourth Avenue Business District working for Dr. A. G. Gaston at Citizens Federal Bank. Thirteen years ago, she returned to the district to work for Urban Impact, Inc. She is currently the Vice-President of the Summit Speakers Toastmasters and a member of the Alabama Society of Certified Public Accountants. In her free time, Carla enjoys playing cards and is a stand-up comedian.

Meet Roy Stoves, a distinguished professional with over 30 years of experience in architecture and construction. He specializes in effective project management, business development, and building strong relationships between owners and design teams. Currently, he serves as the Real Estate and Economic Development Director for Urban Impact. Roy’s diverse portfolio includes healthcare, education, recreational spaces, and cultural institutions. In addition to his professional roles, he has also been an Adjunct Instructor at Virginia College and ITT Technical in Birmingham. Roy has been married for 38 years, has three children, and is a proud grandfather. His life and career reflect his passion for professional excellence, community engagement, and strong family values. 

Meet Deanda Baker, a Birmingham native with a passion for creative communications and marketing design. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Digital Marketing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she developed a strong foundation in marketing principles, content strategy, and brand management. Deanda also brings industry-recognized credentials, including certifications in Google Ads Search, Inbound Marketing, and Social Media Marketing.

With a keen eye for detail and a love for visual storytelling, Deanda enjoys designing graphics and expanding her creative portfolio. Outside of her professional work, she can often be found spending time with animals, tending to her plants, or weight training.

Deanda is excited to grow with Urban Impact Inc. and is committed to helping share our story in ways that meaningfully connect with the community.

Meet Sam Pugh, a thoughtful communicator and dedicated public servant who values connection and community. A Birmingham native, he earned his degree in Mass Communication with a concentration in Public Relations and Political Science from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. As a Program Associate, Sam helps entrepreneurs navigate resources and opportunities, ensuring they have the support needed to succeed. His experience working within the City’s Department of Youth Services and the United States House of Representatives has strengthened his passion for advocacy and supporting those around him. Samuel is deeply invested in Birmingham’s growth and believes in the power of collaboration to create meaningful change. Outside of work, he enjoys reading and music, seeing both as ways to learn, unwind, and stay inspired.