As Hope Atlanta commemorates 125 years of service to the community, the organization announces the addition of four accomplished leaders to its Board of Directors. These new board members bring a wealth of experience across legal, risk management, environmental policy, and technology, reinforcing Hope Atlanta’s mission to address homelessness, hunger, and housing insecurity throughout Georgia.

Rooted in a legacy of responding to the needs of the Atlanta community —from supporting stranded travelers in 1900 to serving families facing modern-day housing instability—Hope Atlanta continues to evolve while remaining steadfast in its commitment to helping individuals and families move from survival to self-sufficiency.

“The experiences these new leaders bring to the table will be instrumental as we enter our 125th year of service to Atlanta,” said Julio Carrillo, CEO of Hope Atlanta. “Together, we are focused on helping all of our neighbors move from survival to self-sufficiency—and ensuring that everyone has access to the wraparound services they need, including behavioral health support. Their strategic insight and deep commitment to our community will help drive this vision forward.”

The newly appointed board members include:

Damon Elmore

Executive Director, State Bar of Georgia
Elmore leads the State Bar of Georgia, serving more than 55,000 members and staff. With a distinguished background in law and human resources, he brings deep expertise in governance, organizational strategy, and community leadership. A native of Savannah, Elmore is passionate about civic engagement and is a proud father of two daughters.

Rose J. Hunter Jones

Partner, eDiscovery and Crisis Management Litigator
A nationally and globally recognized expert in litigation and data governance, Jones is ranked by Chambers USA and Chambers Global as a top e-discovery attorney. Her practice focuses on crisis management, privacy, and regulatory response—providing valuable insight as Hope Atlanta adapts to the evolving legal and technological landscape.

Ashwini Panse

Managing Director, ICE India; Chief Risk Officer, North American Clearing at ICE
Panse oversees ICE’s North American Clearinghouses and leads the company’s India operations, managing over 3,500 staff across three cities. Her leadership in enterprise risk management and global operations will help shape strategic planning and risk oversight for the organization.

Todd Silliman

Environmental Practice Leader, Eversheds Sutherland
Silliman brings 30 years of experience in environmental litigation, regulatory compliance, and redevelopment. With a national track record of success in major brownfield projects and sustainable land use, he provides valuable perspective on public policy and place-based community revitalization.

Hope Atlanta also welcomes its new Advisory Committee Co-Chairs: DePriest Waddy and Sonji Jacobs. DePriest Waddy, CEO of the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, brings decades of nonprofit leadership and a deep commitment to social impact. Sonji Jacobs, Partner at Incisive, offers strategic communications expertise and a passion for community engagement. Together, they will help guide and strengthen Hope Atlanta’s mission to end homelessness and build a more connected, compassionate Atlanta.