As a result of the pandemic, many small businesses, particularly women-and minority-led businesses, were devastated. Many small businesses were unable or did not receive the full aid provided. As the country shapes a post-pandemic economy, it is critical that small businesses have the resources to grow, adjust, and manage challenges in a sustainable manner. With over a decade of financial services policy experience, Pierre has advised financial institutions and financial technology companies at Deloitte and Buckley LLP and developed public policy at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), and Federal Reserve. Most recently, I held senior positions on Capitol Hill having served as Staff Director of the U.S. Senate Banking Committee’s Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Protection, as well as Senior Economic Policy Advisor to U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA). Immediately prior, Whatley served as a Professional Staff Member on the U.S. House Committee on Financial Services under the leadership of Chairwoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), advising the Chairwoman and Members on federal bank and nonbank regulatory matters. Pierre is a Board Member for the Financial Infusion Group and Coweta County Accountability Courts, Inc. Pierre enjoys playing basketball, reading, and trying new restaurants. He is a proud graduate of Howard University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Economics.