MANSFIELD — The North End Community Improvement Collaborative, Inc. (NECIC) has announced that Matthew Scruggs has officially stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer.
This follows the organization’s October 2024 announcement that founding CEO Deanna West-Torrence would be stepping down, with Tony Chinni serving as interim CEO during the transition.
At that time, the NECIC Board also announced the formation of a transition committee with the goal of having a new permanent CEO in place by July 1, 2025, a goal that was successfully met ahead of schedule with the selection of Matthew Scruggs.
After an extensive search and multiple rounds of interviews led by the Board and the transition committee, Scruggs was selected to lead NECIC into its next chapter.
Over the past several weeks, he has been working closely with Deanna West-Torrence, NECIC’s leadership team, staff, and community partners to ensure a smooth transition. With that period complete, he is now fully at the helm.
“I’m excited to begin my journey with NECIC,” said Scruggs. “I want to sincerely thank Deanna West-Torrence for her lifelong dedication to this organization and the North End of Mansfield.
“Her vision and legacy will continue to shape our work as we move forward.”
As CEO, Scruggs will lead NECIC in its mission to improve the quality of life and economic landscape of the North End community. He brings a strong blend of operational expertise and a deep passion for community impact to the role.
Originally from Pittsburgh, Scruggs studied Culinary Arts and Hotel & Restaurant Management at Johnson & Wales University and completed executive coursework at The Wharton School of Business.
Prior to joining NECIC, he served as Director of Philanthropy and Brand Management at an Ohio Based Non-profit serving youth and families.
His career also includes leadership roles with The Ohio State University’s Wooster Campus, as well as with major hospitality and sports organizations including convention centers in Boston, Houston, and Dallas.
His work has consistently focused on managing multimillion-dollar operations, increasing revenue, and elevating experiences across the country.
As part of his first board meeting, Scruggs recommended the promotion of Tionna Perdue to Chief Operating Officer of NECIC. A North End native, Perdue has been a vital part of the NECIC team since 2017, following more than a decade of service at Third Street Family Health Services.
Her steady leadership during the organization’s transition, coupled with her deep commitment to NECIC’s mission, has made her an invaluable asset. This promotion reflects the trust in her continued leadership and her ongoing impact within the organization and the community it serves.
On Thursday, May 29, 2025, Deanna West-Torrence formally stepped away from her active role as Founder of NECIC. While she is no longer serving in any official capacity, the organization remains profoundly grateful for her visionary leadership as our Founder and longtime CEO.
Deanna’s unwavering commitment to community empowerment and transformation has left an enduring mark on NECIC and the North End, and her legacy continues to inspire and guide our mission moving forward.
Scruggs begins this new chapter with the full support of NECIC’s board and staff and looks forward to building on the organization’s strong foundation in partnership with residents, local leaders, and community stakeholders.