Daughters of Greatness: Marita Willis

This event is SOLD OUT!

A proud Louisville native and longtime Jeffersontown resident, Marita Willis embodies the spirit of service, courage, and purpose. Guided by faith, fueled by conviction, and anchored in respect for people and community, Marita has dedicated her life to breaking down barriers, building trust, and creating pathways for others to thrive.

Marita’s journey began humbly at the Bank of Louisville as a teller—where she learned the power of listening, dignity, and access. Through confidence in her calling and unwavering dedication to community impact, she rose into executive leadership, ultimately serving as Vice President of Community Development at PNC Bank. There, she helped revitalize low- to moderate-income neighborhoods by expanding financial education, increasing access to capital, and championing inclusive engagement.

Known for her ability to unite cross-sector partners and lead with authenticity, Marita has earned deep respect as one of the Midwest’s most trusted community development leaders. As President of eHome America, she helped thousands of families achieve the dream of first-time homeownership. Her leadership roles as Philanthropy Officer at the American Red Cross and CEO of Hope Collaborative further reflect her lifelong commitment to giving back and lifting others forward.

Today, as President of Community Engagement at Community Ventures, Marita continues to lead with bold vision and humility—expanding opportunities for minority-owned small businesses and advancing inclusive economic development across the region.

Marita’s leadership is also forged through profound personal adversity. She and her husband Bob, partners in life for nearly five decades, have walked together through joy, challenge, and unwavering commitment. Raised two children born with Sickle Cell Disease—an experience that deepened their resolve to advocate for equity and systemic change. The family endured unimaginable loss with the tragic death of their son, Rashaan, in the 1997 flood, and the passing of their daughter, Ra’Tonya, due to Sickle Cell complications. Rather than retreat, Marita transformed grief into purpose-driven action.

She recently concluded her tenure as Board Chair of the Louisville Metropolitan Sewer District—advocating for infrastructure improvements that safeguard communities—and as Board Chair of the Norton Children’s Hospital Foundation, helping ensure families can access exceptional care close to home.

At the heart of Marita’s life and leadership is her deep spirituality—rooted in the lessons of her mother, Dorothy Stover, a single parent who raised seven children in Louisville’s Parkhill Housing Projects. Faith remains her foundation, and she continues to serve through Bates Memorial Church and as a trustee of the Bates Community Development Corporation.

Marita Willis leads with courage, speaks with conviction, serves with humility, and believes—unapologetically—in the greatness of people and communities.