HOPE's New Leadership Appointments Herald a New Era for Community Development

HOPE's Most Recent Leadership Updates

In a significant corporate shift, HOPE (Hope Enterprise Corporation/Hope Credit Union) has appointed Cassandra Williams as the new President of Hope Credit Union and Ed Sivak as the President of Hope Enterprise Corporation. These strategic appointments come on the heels of what is widely recognized as one of the most transformative years in HOPE's history. Bill Bynum, the current Chief Executive Officer, remains at the helm driving the organization towards its mission.

Impactful Leadership for Economic Growth

Bynum, in making the announcements, highlighted that these leadership changes are set to build on three decades of work aimed at cultivating an economic ecosystem that enhances prosperity for families and communities throughout the Deep South. "Our mission has always been to foster growth that benefits everyday people," Bynum stated. His optimism stems from the fact that in 2024, the organization successfully allocated over $210 million to fund community development projects, marking a $40 million increase from their previous record.

The achievements allow HOPE Credit Union to stand out with the highest rate of loan growth among its peer group, which includes credit unions with assets between $500 million and $1 billion. This growth reflects the increasing trust and dependence on HOPE's services in underserved areas across Mississippi and beyond.

Cassandra Williams: Leader of Hope Credit Union

Cassandra Williams joins the leadership ranks with a wealth of experience at HOPE, having started her career with the organization as a commercial loan officer in the Mississippi Delta back in 1999. Over the years, she has risen through various key roles, including her significant contribution as Chief Lending Officer, where she spearheaded initiatives for commercial and community lending.

Williams holds a Master's in Business Administration from Delta State University and is passionate about increasing banking access and homeownership rates in the Deep South. "In 2024, we initiated a bold strategy to elevate banking access and asset ownership in our communities," she said, expressing her intention to ensure that marginalized populations have the necessary resources to thrive.

Ed Sivak: Leading Hope Enterprise Corporation

Ed Sivak, who joined HOPE in 2001 as an intern, has grown to become a pivotal figure in the organization. As the new President of Hope Enterprise Corporation, he is tasked with overseeing critical areas such as investor relations and corporate administration. Sivak’s legacy includes managing projects that raised significant funds for community development and supporting recovery efforts in New Orleans post-hurricane Katrina.

With a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration from Jackson State University, Sivak has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to improving living conditions in the Deep South. He also emphasizes the importance of collaboration with various sectors to bolster resources for the underserved. "We achieve our best results through partnerships across private industries and nonprofit sectors," Sivak noted.

Both Williams and Sivak highlight a shared commitment to driving HOPE's legacy forward while ensuring that their vision remains attuned to the needs of the communities they serve. They aim to collectively harness the capabilities of HOPE to bring about tangible progress in under-resourced areas, reinforcing the intention to facilitate financial stability and growth for its members.

About HOPE

Founded in 1994, HOPE (Hope Enterprise Corporation, Hope Credit Union, and Hope Policy Institute) is dedicated to providing essential financial services, leveraging resources for community development, and engaging in advocacy that fortifies the economic health of underserved areas in the Deep South. Their efforts have positively impacted over three million lives across several states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee. The organization's work has catalyzed billions in investments into communities affected by persistent poverty, positioning HOPE as a champion for economic equity in the region.

For more information, visit www.hopecu.org.