Community Foundation of Henderson County President and CEO Plans for Retirement

On Wednesday, November 12, McCray Benson, President and CEO of Community Foundation of Henderson County, announced to the Board of Directors his intention to retire.

Benson has served CFHC and the community for more than 20 years. In that time, the organization has nearly tripled in core assets and the amount distributed annually into the community has also tripled. The Foundation will move into a prominent Main Street location by end of the year due to receiving a significant gift allowing for the purchase of 301 S. Main Street the new home for its operations. He has assembled a strong professional staff and maintained a highly effective board of directors. During his tenure, Community Foundation of Henderson County has helped create new nonprofit organizations, merge key organizations and has been an integral part of strengthening our community.

CFHC Board Chair Ruth Birge said, “While the Board and Staff are sad to see McCray retire, we wish him the very best in his next chapter. His service to the Foundation and the community has been exemplary. He helped mentor new community foundations as they form and has assisted with many fiscal sponsorships leading to the next generation community development”

CFHC Past Board Chair Stan Duncan said, “A transition committee consisting of the Executive Committee members and community representatives will be working to seek the next President over the next several months.”

Benson received his Master of Social Work degree from UNC - Chapel Hill and serves on its Board of Advisors. He came to Henderson County from the Charlotte area where he worked with Foundation For The Carolinas as Sr. Vice President over community affiliates stretching from Blowing Rock to Myrtle Beach.

“It has been my greatest privilege” Benson said, “to serve our community and Community Foundation of Henderson County along with having remarkable support of caring donors, board members and staff over these more than 20 years. This truly is the Community’s foundation, the fingerprints of the people in this community are forever embossed on my heart and soul.”