About Cassandra Illidge

VP Global Partnerships & Executive Director of HBCU Programs

Getty Images

Cassandra is the Vice President of Partnerships and HBCU Programs at Getty Images, where she creates visual content ecosystems through data-driven strategies. For over twenty years, she has led global licensing deals and facilitated partnerships that support anti-racism and inclusion. She oversees the Photo Archive Grants Program for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which was launched in 2021 with a $500,000 investment to preserve photographic archives. Revenue from this program supports HBCUs’ missions and scholarships. Cassandra also directs the Black History & Culture Collection, which provides access to historical images that inspire authentic storytelling. As a co-founder of Getty Images’ first Employee Resource Group, she advocates for the advancement of over 190 employees. In April 2025, Campaign US recognized Cassandra with its Inspiring Women Award. She holds a Master’s in Political Science and a Bachelor’s in Television Production from Brooklyn College. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, watching films, listening to music, appreciating art, studying history, practicing photography, volunteering, and doing Pilates.