Marita A. Willis was born, raised, and groomed in the Bluegrass State of Kentucky, where she studied at the University of Louisville. Professionally, Marita began her banking career as a teller at the Bank of Louisville. She quickly moved through the field of banking and acquired numerous experiences in lending, developing expertise to catapult her into the government and corporate financial service industry.
Marita joined PNC Bank in August 2002 as Vice President of Community Development. As a Community Consultant, her primary responsibility was to aid in transforming low to moderate- income neighborhoods through education and financial resources. After leaving the banking industry, Marita worked at Community Ventures Corporation, a non-profit, as President of eHome America; a suite of online financial education products that offer affordable financial education to thousands of customers across the globe.
Marita worked as a Philanthropy Officer at the American Red Cross for three years. She is currently the Chief Empowerment Office/Executive Director at Hope Collaborative Inc., a non- profit serving our distressed community through various programs. She is distinguished personally and professionally as a result of her relentless efforts, giving of her time and energy, while working to empower youth and improve community relations and services.
Marita serves on the boards of various organizations; she was the 2019 Chair of the KY Derby Festival, Louisville Water Company Foundation, Housing Partnership Inc., Kentucky Youth Advocates, Norton Healthcare Children’s Foundation, currently chair of Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD) and as an Ambassador for Churchill Downs.
Marita worships at Bates Memorial Church were she serves on their Community Development board. She enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her numerous mentees! In her spare time she enjoys interior decorating, reading and shopping.
Marita is married to Robert E. Willis. Together, they have two children - a daughter, Ra’Tonya, and a son, RaShaan, both who are deceased. They also have two grand guys – Noa’Sosa Nehemiah Friedman who attends Colligate and a great Son (in love) Gary Friedman.
Marita shares a thought: Circumstances may thrust us into life situations that require strength to see them through. Drawing from that inner strength reservoir, even when we don’t think we have the strength, will empower us to overcome those obstacles.
Circumstances + Strength = Power
Don’t be overcome by circumstances, draw from that inner strength and be empowered!
CFRE APPROVED: 1 POINT (PENDING)CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICYIn order for AFP Greater Louisville to confirm meals and seating with the venue, cancellations must be received in writing via email by the Thursday before the event/program to be eligible for a full refund. No refunds will be made for requests received after that time. If advanced payment was not received, an invoice will be issued. You may always send an alternate to an event/program without additional charge.