Citizens Bancshares Corporation announced that because of a serious illness, James E Young, President and Chief Executive Officer of the company had been on a medical leave of absence. On February 27, 2012, Mr. Young passed away. On February 27, 2012, the Board of Directors appointed Cynthia N. Day as President and Chief Executive Officer of the company. Ms. Day, who has served as the Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the bank since 2003, had been serving as the acting President and Chief Executive Officer since January 5, 2012. Also on February 27, 2012, the Board of Directors of the company appointed Ms. Day to serve as a director until the 2012 shareholders meeting, at which time she will be nominated to be elected by the shareholders to serve a three-year term (along with other Class I directors).