Cynthia Ham’s bio on archer-malmo’s website describes her as operating by a mantra – all deserve to be heard.

HAM

But after being with archer-malmo for 15 years, Ham is ready to start a new chapter in her life. The principal and chief public relations officer at Memphis’ largest marketing communications agency is leaving to become the president of BRIDGES Feb. 15.

The move not only reflects Ham’s personal philosophy, but also one that has the potential to be a lasting career move.

“I think retiring from BRIDGES is a real possibility,” Ham said. “It’s possible that I could be there for the next decade, assuming we all get along and I think we will. There’s just so much growth potential and I think that that’s one of the things that really intrigues me and excites me so much about working there is that it’s a chance to take it to a whole new level.”

BRIDGES is a 90-year-old local nonprofit known for its leadership work with thousands of Mid-South youth. One of Ham’s initial goals will be to broaden the organization’s constituency and engage more people “in what the organization is all about,” she said.

That’s why for the first 30 days, Ham plans to be very internally focused.

“The first thing that I will do is just completely immerse myself in everything that BRIDGES does,” Ham said. “I need to get up close and really understand how all of the programs work and really experience the emotion that no doubt comes out of these types of programs.”

The hope is to not only cultivate great relationships but also future donors, Ham said.

“BRIDGES relies on donations from the community to operate its programs, so the more constituents, hopefully the more donors we will have, and that’s going to be a big focus of mine,” Ham said.

The organization has begun an expansion of its Bridge Builders program to include sixth through 12th graders in order to give more youth access to the life-changing program. By 2015, BRIDGES will triple the number of youth served each year.

Ham grew up in Memphis, graduated from the University of Memphis, serves on various boards and was a key player in revitalizing Downtown. While at archer-malmo, Ham created a course called Memphis 101 as a way to bring new executive commerce to the city while also building relationships with those who have lived in Memphis for years.

“It’s a crash course on the people, politics and culture of Memphis,” Ham said. “It’s sort of a behind the scenes, not the glossy Chamber of Commerce version, but just kind of the real deal.”

After Memphis 101 was developed, the Leadership Academy integrated the program into its curriculum. The course is even used as a recruiting tool.

“It has really grown in terms of the different applications of its use,” Ham said. “It’s a tool that companies can use. It’s really sprouted legs and it is still used at archer-malmo.”

At this juncture in her life, Ham said choosing to head BRIDGES will allow her to give back to the community that has enriched her.

“Accepting this special opportunity allows me to do so and provides more meaning in my life and work,” Ham said.