In honor of Women’s History Month and the Chamber’s Women’s Forum, the Colorado Chamber is recognizing women business leaders, executives, and job creators who are core to our local Colorado communities.
Today’s feature is Renee Williams with Huntington Bank
Renee Williams is senior vice president of regional community development at Huntington Bank, where she oversees the bank’s community development efforts across Michigan, Northwest Ohio, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Colorado. Leading a dedicated team across six regions, Williams is committed to embodying Huntington’s mission within local communities.
A Detroit native and graduate of Wayne State University, Williams recently completed the Harvard University Public Leadership Credential Program. With over 30 years of experience in various sectors of the banking and financial services industry, including institutional investment management, retail, mortgage and business banking, she has also been deeply involved in community and economic development.
Throughout her career, Williams has spearheaded numerous economic empowerment programs, facilitating over $170 million in affordable housing-low income housing tax credit financing. Notable initiatives include launching Huntington Bank’s $25 million Microlending commitment for small businesses in Michigan and the Flint NOW program, a $25 million effort supporting homeowners, businesses, entrepreneurs and residents of Flint and Genesee County. Under her leadership, approximately 30,000 underserved individuals and small businesses have received financial education and technical assistance.
Recognized for her impactful contributions, Williams has received accolades such as the 2023 NAACP Hazel R. Lewis Presidential Award and the WW Plummer Humanitarian Giants Award. She also serves as a governor-appointed commissioner on the Michigan Community Service Commission and has held leadership roles in various organizations including the Grand Rapids Community Foundation and Michigan Economic Development Foundation.
Williams is passionate about fostering permanent, sustainable economic empowerment and transformation in underserved communities nationwide. Committed to mentorship, she actively supports youth, college students and young professionals of color.
Williams spent over 30 years as a caregiver to both of her parents, balancing both career and family. In 2023, she founded “Courageous Caregiving and Living,” a business aimed at providing products, resources and workplace wellness programs to empower caregivers of adult parents.
Connect with Renee Williams on LinkedIn.