What is your job title/position at your bank?
Second Vice President, Service Center Manager – I manage the MidWestOne Bank Service Center aka our bank call center.
Where did you attend college/what degree(s) have you obtained? (optional)
I have my associate degree from Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, IA. I worked in retail for many years before starting my banking career with MidWestOne Bank. I have been with MidWestOne since September 2011. I started my career working in our Service Center. Now, I manage that Service Center.
When looking back on your banking career, what achievement are you most proud of and why?
I am most proud of my volunteer work. I get to do all of this while working for MidWestOne Bank. I have served on the MidWestOne’s United Way committee, Mid-ABC Region Youth board, the IBA Leadership Advisory board, and the board of my church focusing on missions and outreach, participated in Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa, Taste of Iowa City, Gallery Art Walk events, and served as a student mentor at Alexander Elementary in Iowa City.
I love working with my team every day. I love to see them get to where they want to go within their careers, either at MidWestOne or elsewhere. I also love hearing them talk with our customers every day. They are building lasting relationships with our customers.
What piece of advice would you give to your past self or to anyone considering a career in banking?
What doesn’t challenge you doesn’t change you.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking has truly opened many doors for me. It’s allowed me to give back both where I live and where I work. Moreover, my career in banking has significantly expanded my financial knowledge. I now have the ability to share this knowledge with my family and friends, helping them feel confident in their banking needs and decisions. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that I’m making a positive impact every day.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
I have made many amazing connections when working with the Iowa Bankers Association. Those connections have been able to help me through situations that have come up when managing my team, working through situations with customers, or general questions that I may need advice on. I can bounce ideas off those individuals to help my customer’s/the bank in the long run. Iowa Bankers Association has helped me learn about myself through the Leadership Institute but also more about banking in general. I am excited to be joining this years Iowa School of Banking
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
I love to travel. My next trip is an Alaskan cruise in August 2024. I also love to try new foods/restaurants. I love to chill at home with my family or game nights with friends. I also LOVE spending time with my 2-year-old Australian Shepard poodle, Cash!
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
Feedback is a gift. We should always be open to it.