Jimmie Howlett, a dedicated leader whose career has been centered on building equitable financial pathways in underserved communities. 

As Impact Capital Manager at U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance, Jimmie has led more than $20 million in equity investments with emerging Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) across the country. His work has helped create affordable housing, support small businesses, generate hundreds of jobs, and increase access to capital in low-income neighborhoods. From launching a $500K COVID-19 relief grant program to contributing to the transformation of Chicago’s West Woodlawn neighborhood, his impact is tangible and far-reaching. 

Jimmie’s commitment to inclusive economic development, paired with nearly two decades of experience in community banking, continues to shape the future of equitable finance—right here in St. Louis and beyond. 

Watch Jimmie’s Interview here!

Brian Davies, a steadfast leader whose professional and civic contributions have helped shape the future of St. Louis. 

As St. Louis Market President for Great Southern Bank, Brian brings over 30 years of experience in commercial banking—15 of those with Great Southern. He not only manages key lending operations and business development, but also leads the bank’s charitable giving and volunteerism in the region. Brian’s passion for community building is evident through his service on numerous local boards, including Park Central Development, Catholic Charities, the Urban League of St. Louis, and many others. 

His commitment to people, neighborhoods, and inclusive progress is why he’s a 2025 St. Louis Impact Award honoree.

Watch Brian’s Interview Here!

Vanessa Cooksey, a transformative leader at the intersection of arts, equity, and civic impact. 

As President and CEO of the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis (RAC), Vanessa is at the helm of the largest public funder of the arts in the region. Under her leadership, RAC continues to advance creativity and cultural equity, having invested over $115 million into a thriving sector that contributes nearly $1 billion in economic activity to St. Louis. 

With more than 30 years of experience spanning corporate, nonprofit, and public service sectors, Vanessa has built a legacy of innovation and community transformation. Her dynamic career includes leadership roles at Anheuser-Busch, Cartoon Network, Wells Fargo, and Spire Energy, along with a deep portfolio of civic leadership. Vanessa’s impact spans the globe, reaching over 20 million people through initiatives in education, health, technology, and the arts. 

A 2023 LEAD STL Freedom Fighter Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and Jack & Jill of America, Vanessa’s passion for service and social reform continues to shape a more joyful, equitable St. Louis.

Clayton Evans, a visionary leader whose decades-long career has centered on advancing equity in community development and financial access. 

As Senior Vice President and Community Affairs Officer–Lead for Simmons Bank, Clayton works to ensure that the bank’s financial services are aligned with the needs of the communities it serves. With over 11 years at the organization and a career spanning leadership roles at Reliance Bank, Freddie Mac, and the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, Clayton brings a deep well of experience and passion to his work. 

His service extends far beyond the boardroom—Clayton has served on numerous local boards including the Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis, Community Action Agency of St. Louis County, Girls Inc. of St. Louis, and the Metropolitan St. Louis Community Reinvestment Association. His commitment to financial empowerment and community growth continues to make a lasting impact throughout the St. Louis region. 

Allan Ivie, a dedicated banking leader whose decades of service have helped expand financial access and opportunity across St. Louis and beyond.

As Regional President for Simmons Bank Private Wealth, Allan oversees wealth management operations across four states, representing more than $2 billion in assets. With 42 years in banking, his leadership has consistently centered on economic inclusion, from revitalizing community banks to expanding services in historically underserved neighborhoods.

In addition to his role at Simmons, Allan is deeply involved in civic life—serving on the executive committee for the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis and holding leadership positions with organizations like Rise Community Development, Justine Petersen, and The Youth and Family Center.

His lifelong commitment to strengthening communities is why he’s a 2025 Community Impact Award honoree.