Leadership

Dr. Delores M. Richardson is an ordained minister, educator, author, and nonprofit leader with more than 25 years of experience developing faith-based programs that empower children, youth, and families. She specializes in creating community-centered initiatives that provide academic support, enrichment opportunities, and leadership development for vulnerable populations. 

Dr. Richardson has partnered with churches, nonprofits, and educational organizations to strengthen communities and expand opportunities for at-risk students. A contributing writer for Thomas Nelson’s Women’s Study Bible, now in its third edition, she is also a sought-after speaker, teacher, and facilitator. She holds degrees from North Carolina A&T State University, Shaw University Divinity School, and Northcentral University. 

Dr. Richardson is the proud mother of one daughter and grandmother to one granddaughter.

Reverend Asa L. Bell, Jr. has served as Senior Pastor of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church since 2006. Before accepting the call to lead the Pleasant Grove congregation, he served as Assistant to the Pastor and a member of the Board of Directors at Redeeming Love Baptist Church in Raleigh, North Carolina.

A native of Wadesboro, North Carolina, Pastor Bell graduated with honors from Anson County Public Schools before attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts, Master of Business Administration, and Juris Doctor. He also earned a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, graduating cum laude from Moody Theological Seminary in Chicago, Illinois, and has pursued additional studies at Wake Forest University and Shaw University Divinity School.

In addition to his pastoral leadership, Pastor Bell is principal of The Law Offices of Asa L. Bell, Jr., P.A. in Raleigh, where he practices alternative dispute resolution, including mediation, arbitration, and collaborative law. Recognized by Best Lawyers in America, he has served in leadership roles throughout the legal and nonprofit communities, including the North Carolina Bar Association Dispute Resolution Section, the North Carolina Advocates for Justice, the Wake County Bar Association, the NC Justice Center, and as President of the North Carolina Association of Black Lawyers. He also serves on the Ordination Council of the Wake Missionary Baptist Association.