
Kelly has received numerous accolades and leadership experiences over the span of his career. Some include:
· EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2023 Michigan and Northwest Ohio Award finalist.
· FDIC chairman’s Advisory Committee on Economic Inclusion (three-year term).
· Current vice chair, American Bankers Association,
· Former member, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago’s seventh district Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council (CDIAC).
· Expert witness who testified before U.S. Congress (appearing before the House Financial Services subcommittee on consumer protection and financial institutions).
“I am grateful to receive this prestigious honor,” says Kelly. “To be acknowledged by one’s peers is the ultimate honor from this group who truly made me feel welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged. This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team at First Independence Bank, as well as the unwavering support of our valued customers and partners. I am truly thankful for the opportunity to serve this institution and the banking industry to impact communities locally, statewide, and nationally.”
Under Kelly’s leadership, First Independence Bank (a minority depository institution serving all customers), has risen to become the seventh largest African American–controlled commercial bank in the country.
Also, Kelly led First Independence Bank’s national expansion efforts with bank branches both in Detroit and since 2022, Minnesota. Over the last several years, First Independence Bank grew from approximately $250 million in assets to more than $600 million.