Introducing Emily Pike, a 2021 Women Excel Bloomington Honoree

Emily Pike, the Executive Director of New Hope for Family Shelter, excels as an accomplished community leader, an inspirational mentor to others, and a supportive colleague to all whom have had the opportunity to serve besides her for the betterment of the larger Bloomington community, as stated by her nominator, Christopher Cockerham. "Every day, Emily displays her overarching service and commitment to others above self," said Cockerham. 

​Emily is a native of Southern Indiana. She graduated from Mitchell High School and was awarded the Lilly Scholarship. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame and received a Master of Public Affairs with a concentration in Nonprofit Management from Indiana University’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs in December 2013. A veteran of the Peace Corps and a variety of socially motivated organizations, Emily has more than a decade of experience working in nonprofits. Emily’s other passion is the welfare of children. Having worked for many years in several childcare provision roles, she understands the importance of intentional programming for children beginning early in life. She first joined the New Hope team in April of 2012 and was excited to transition to the role of Executive Director of Children’s Programming in April 2013. In February of 2018, Emily assumed the role of Executive Director at New Hope responsible for operations of both The Roof and The Nest.​

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Emily works tirelessly helping individuals and families experiencing homelessness often receiving calls late in the evening with a family in need. Emily quickly jumps into action to secure a safe place for these families until New Hope can place them into stable housing. As stated by New Hope’s former Board President, Liz McCrea, “Emily is a force of nature and I don’t know of anyone who can outwork her. She is smart, articulate, ethical, a reflective thinker, an active problem solver.” In addition to her role with New Hope, Emily is very much a strong advocate of affordable housing in Monroe County. She works hard reviewing the new zoning laws to ensure it promotes affordable housing for all. Emily’s impact on Bloomington will be felt for years to come as 83% of the families who stay in New Hope’s shelter move on to stable housing upon their departure. That fact compares to the national average of 52%. In addition, 90% of the families with children enrolled in their childcare program can gain or maintain employment.

Jennifer Myers, Coordinator of Monroe Smart Starts, says, "Emily exhibits a multitude of leadership skills and a successful history with New Hope for Families and the NEST at New Hope. An intelligent woman with admirable leadership skills and a determination to make this community better is what makes her deserving of this honor. Emily prides herself in a dedicated work ethic with a clear vision filled with passion and a relentless drive for her work. She approaches tasks courageously with much confidence and integrity while keeping a strong sense of humility intact."

Congratulations, Emily, for being a 2021 Women Excel Bloomington Honoree.