Meet Calvin L. Holmes ’86, president of Chicago Community Loan Fund

Calvin L. Holmes graduated in 1986 with a major in African American Studies and a minor in Urban Studies. Today Holmes serves as the President of the Chicago Community Loan Fund (CCLF). Holmes also serves advisory councils and boards across the country. Previously, he was appointed to serve as an advisor to the Community Development Advisory Board by former President Barack Obama.

Holmes believes CCLF can help to address current issues caused by structural racism. In his 22 years as president of CCLF, Holmes has led the nonprofit to loan more than $1 billion to 70+ low-income Chicago area communities and provide funding for community development.

“There are contemporary practices that financial institutions execute, whether intentional or not, that have a de facto redlining impact,” said Calvin L. Holmes.

“If you’re running a family business and coming from a minority community, you may be the first of your kind. If you don’t have a track record to stand on, traditional lenders often aren’t willing to take that risk.”

Learn more about community developer Calvin L. Holmes in Northwestern Magazine’s profile.