When sharing a founder story, most folks usually begin by introducing themselves, but I’m going to start at the real beginning of the story — Ivan James Lewis and Ray Charles Graham, my father and my cousin.

My dad and my cousin Ray were very much alike, tough guys on the surface, but men who cared deeply about their communities, oftentimes opening their homes to those who needed places to sleep, even when they had little themselves. Wanting to see me go further than they could, they encouraged and supported my decision to attend Tuskegee University, an experience that gave me a lifelong community.

While we did not have the best relationship growing up, they became my best friends by the time they each passed. So much of who I am and Ivan Ray’s mission is rooted in the legacies that my dad and cousin Ray left behind.

Today, I’m a husband, a father of two daughters that stole my heart, a son, a brother, a proud graduate of Tuskegee University, and a Christian. I work each day to be a better ambassador not only for my family and community, but also for God.

I stepped out on faith and created Ivan Ray’s because I wanted to do my part in building up our community and helping others. It’s truly a gift to be able to do work that I’m passionate about. These designs mean so much to me, and I hope they will to you as well.

Sincerely,
Scotty Lewis