Opportunity Finance Network Welcomes New Chair and Vice Chair to Its Board of Directors

Opportunity Finance Network Announces New Board Leadership

Opportunity Finance Network (OFN), the preeminent investment intermediary and association for community development financial institutions (CDFIs) in the United States, has introduced its new Board leadership following a recent election. Aisha Benson, the President and CEO of the Nonprofit Finance Fund (NFF), takes over the role of Chair, while Henry Jiménez, President and CEO of Propel Nonprofits, assumes the position of Vice Chair. Their appointments are expected to foster impactful changes in community development finance across the nation.

Both Benson and Jiménez are considered pioneers in the realm of community finance and are well-regarded for their vast expertise. OFN's President and CEO, Harold Pettigrew, expressed excitement over the new leadership, stating, "Aisha and Henry are influential figures. Their perspectives and dedication will be instrumental as we continue advocating for community development and leveraging capital to benefit underserved communities."

Aisha Benson: A Voice for Community Development

Aisha Benson has a profound history of dedication to the community development sector. Leading NFF, a CDFI that champions organizations focused on transformative community work, Benson has been an advocate for equity in financial resource allocation since joining the OFN Board of Directors in 2019. Under her guidance, NFF plays a crucial role in helping mission-focused organizations secure the funding they need to drive positive changes in communities, particularly those facing severe economic challenges.

"CDFIs are pivotal in nurturing economic development and community well-being, arduous tasks vital for the growth of neighborhoods throughout the nation," Benson asserted. "I am truly honored to serve as the OFN Board Chair and am eager to partner with a dedicated team to ensure that nonprofits and small businesses receive the support necessary for sustainable development."

Beyond her leadership at NFF, Benson is an active member on several influential boards, including the New Markets Tax Credit Coalition, further underlining her commitment to enhancing the community development finance landscape.

Henry Jiménez: Champion for Nonprofits

Taking on the role of Vice Chair, Henry Jiménez brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at Propel Nonprofits, a CDFI that strengthens nonprofits through capital and capacity building. Jiménez is known for spearheading initiatives that enhance economic opportunities in Latino and immigrant communities. His work focuses on wealth creation and revitalizing cultural corridors.

As he prepares for this next phase with OFN, Jiménez conveyed his enthusiasm, sharing, "My journey as a board member has deepened my appreciation for the robust potential of community development finance through CDFIs, and I’m thrilled to continue advancing our goals alongside esteemed colleagues."

Jiménez is also recognized for his accomplishments outside OFN, including his designation as a 2023 Bush Fellow, amplifying his contributions at both local and national levels.

A Commitment to Community Development

Under the stewardship of Benson and Jiménez, OFN aims to intensify its efforts in community development finance. Their appointments also follow last year's election of four new leaders, indicating a promising direction for the organization.

Since its inception in 1986, Opportunity Finance Network has successfully managed over $1 billion in assets and has fostered an extensive network of more than 470 CDFIs. These institutions have collectively generated over $110 billion in financing, which has spurred job creation, supported small business growth, and improved housing and community facilities across the nation.

As OFN continues to champion financial inclusivity, the leadership of Aisha Benson and Henry Jiménez heralds a new chapter aimed at enhancing economic opportunities for communities long underserved by traditional finance systems.

In summary, the leadership transition at Opportunity Finance Network with Aisha Benson and Henry Jiménez highlights a continuous commitment to elevating community development finance and fostering economic equity across diverse communities throughout the United States.