ABOUT OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM

Charlene Keys Bowen, the visionary behind Ascend Studios, brings a wealth of experience, a unique blend of executive acumen, and an entrepreneurial spirit to her role as Founder and CEO. After a distinguished 28-year career as a corporate executive she used her extensive expertise to create Ascend Studios as the premier destination for beauty, image, and wellness professionals in Columbia, South Carolina.

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Mission driven, her goal is simple - provide business owners with a work environment, that inspires creativity, fosters growth, and elevates the client experience. A place where professionals can thrive and reach new heights of success.

Christopher G. Keys, II, is vice president of business and corporate development at Ascend Studios in Columbia, driving its growth through strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and integration. Chris is an Executive MBA candidate at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School, pivoting from over a decade of leadership experience as a middle school Vice Principal in Washington, DC.  A graduate of Morehouse College, Chris holds a master’s degree in early childhood education from Relay Graduate School of Education in New York, New York, and a master’s in Education Policy and Leadership from American University.