Hoosier Hills Credit Union welcomes Ashlynne Bender to advance mission and community impact

Hoosier Hills Credit Union (HHCU) announced that Ashlynne Bender has been hired as a Community Relations Partner to further the company’s mission of positively impacting the lives of members and the communities it serves. 

Bender is a community development and external affairs leader with experience across public, nonprofit, and private sectors both domestically and internationally. She has consistently delivered impactful results throughout her career, most notably leading community development initiatives and public relations for the City of Bedford, where she secured over $2 million in grant funds to invest in quality of life and place initiatives. 

“Hoosier Hills Credit Union puts members first and strengthens communities by volunteering time and reinvesting profits in local organizations, economic development opportunities and causes that are impactful and important within the footprint,” Bender said. “It is my honor to join this team and advance the mission and vision of HHCU. I am excited to meet members and community stakeholders across Indiana to learn how HHCU can make an even greater impact. I truly live through unselfish leadership for the greater good and will deliver on the HHCU promise.”

Bender has a master’s degree in public administration from Indiana University and a bachelor’s degree in German studies and sociology from the University of Southern Indiana. She participates in many community organizations and is passionate about DEI, social justice and animal welfare. Originally from Dubois County, she resides in Lawrence County with her husband, Kody Emmons and two dogs, Lila and Olive. She enjoys traveling and reading and considers herself a foodie. 

“We are thrilled to have Ashlynne’s passion for community, belief in leadership through service, and vast experience on the Hoosier Hills team,” said Christine Zazzeti, Hoosier Hills SVP, Marketing and Member Experience. “Her authenticity, approachability, knowledge, open mindset, and collaborative skills will serve her well as she builds relationships and connects people with opportunity across the footprint. We know her genuine enthusiasm, altruism, ambassadorship and focus on community involvement will increase awareness of all the wonderful support Hoosier Hills offers our members and our communities.”