Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1526047
C-SUITE | 2024 AWARDS B12 HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2, 2024 A s chief creative officer at Hartford International University for Religion and Peace (HIU), Steven Havira is responsible for creating branding and marketing strategies that amplify the university's mission glob- ally. He ensures consistent brand messaging across all platforms, designs print publications and market- ing materials, and works across university depart- ments to develop cohesive communication strategies. His efforts enhance engagement with students, alumni and stakeholders, fostering a strong and unified brand presence that reflects HIU's core values and mission. What have been your biggest professional accomplishments over the past year? I developed and led a new university-wide marketing initiative, "1834," at HIU. Named after our founding year, this campaign tells the compelling stories of HIU's people and programs through video, print and digital design, and podcasting. By leveraging engaging storytelling, we now effectively communicate the university's values, achievements and global impact to potential students, alumni, donors and supporters worldwide. A key feature of this initiative was a 16-minute documentary called "A Chaplain's Journey," which I produced and directed. It chronicles the inspiring path of HIU alum and current Yale chaplain, Imam Omer Bajwa '10. is work has garnered nine national awards and was accepted for screening at the 2024 Ridgefield, CT Film Festival. In what ways are you involved in the commu- nity? I provide brand consulting to Fresh Start, a local nonprofit dedicated to employment and skill development through furniture production and contract work. Additionally, I assist HIU international students with resume design and gradu- ate project guidance. I have also helped Hartford's Grace Lutheran Church transition services online to meet the demand for digital outreach and worship. Making a positive impact within my community is incredi- bly rewarding and allows me to contrib- ute to society through my talents. Steven Havira Chief Creative Officer HARTFORD INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY FOR RELIGION AND PEACE Size of organization: $6M budget Number of employees: 45 Education: Master's Degree in Communications, University of Hartford; Bachelor's in Fine Arts, University of Cincinnati WINNER CATEGORY | CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER S halonta Ford is senior vice president and director of commu- nity relations and DEI at GSB; with 27 years experi- ence in banking. Ford plays a pivotal role in implement- ing strategies that support community development initiatives, promote finan- cial literacy, and enhance the bank's corporate social responsibility efforts. She does so with a deep commitment to fostering positive relationships between the bank and the communities it serves. Ford has a passion for learning and enjoys trav- eling and spending time with her family. What have been your biggest professional accomplishments over the past year? I have made significant professional contributions, including launching GSB's Aspire Checking, a Bank On product aimed at increasing financial accessibility. I played a key role in helping corporate officers secure board positions at nonprofits in an effort to enrich our communities. I also led internal initiatives such as the Non-profit Civic Council and DEI Council. I co-chaired the annual fund- raising auction for the nonprofit New Reach, raising vital funds for homelessness support and prevention. Additionally, I estab- lished a group of finan- cial literacy facilitators who have worked with Junior Achievement and CT Money School, providing valuable financial education to the community. Lastly, I have served on an advisory committee for the Amer- ican Bankers Association to develop leadership workshops for women of color and allies. In what ways are you involved in the commu- nity? I serve on the board of New Reach, where I hold the position of board secretary. It is an organiza- tion aimed at making homelessness rare, one-time and brief. Additionally, I volunteer my time with organizations like United Way and Habitat for Humanity, participating in activities such as landscaping or swinging hammers. I also contribute to nonprofit organizations by serving on auction teams to support their fundraising efforts. Some of these organizations I assist include St. Martin de Porres, Shore- line Arts Alliance, SARAH, Vista and demandZERO, among others. Shalonta Ford Senior Vice President, Director of Communi- ty Relations & DEI GSB Size of organization: $1.1 billion in assets. Number of employees: 150 Education: Master's Degree in Leadership, Albertus Magnus College WINNER CATEGORY | CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES/DIVERSITY OFFICER to Lisa Chirillo, our outstanding CFO, on this well-deserved recognition! Congratulations Your leadership and dedication continue to inspire us all. We celebrate you and the other C-Suite honorees for your outstanding achievements! 1387 Seaview Avenue • Bridgeport, CT 06607 (203) 353-0260 • vikingconstruction.net Shalonta's leadership is the cornerstone of GSB's commitment to Community Giving and DEI. Her drive, passion and commitment help to inspire and uplift our colleagues and our communities. Congratulations to all the ! GSB Congratulates Shalonta Ford on her C-Suite Award! C M Y CM MY CY CMY K gsb-s-ford-c-suite-2024-ad.pdf 1 8/21/2024 8:45:58 AM