This week, the Community Loan Fund announced that Community Development Lending Officer Destiny Watkins will succeed Paul Stewart as the CDFI’s new Manager of Training and Technical Assistance. Watkins was promoted to the position because of her dynamic skillset, her thorough understanding of the market, and her long commitment to economic justice.
Watkins has been with the Community Loan Fund for seven years. She began her career at the Loan Fund as an intern from the College of Saint Rose. Upon the completion of her internship, Watkins was hired to serve as the Training and Technical Assistance Associate. After two years of designing and leading workshops, she was promoted to Community Development Lending Officer. During her time on the Lending Team, Watkins helped dozens of small businesses successfully get financing. She also oversaw the Emerging Investors Network program.
“Destiny brings a remarkable level of experience to this position. She has a background in training, lending, and investing, and understands what it takes to start and grow a successful business,” says Linda MacFarlane, Executive Director for the Community Loan Fund. “We know she will succeed in this position because she cares about her clients, and she believes in the mission of the Community Loan Fund.”
Watkins graduated from The College of Saint Rose in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Small Business Entrepreneurship. She is a strong advocate for youth development and female entrepreneurship. She lives in Schenectady.
Watkins will be succeeding Paul Stewart, who was with the organization for 23 years.
