Part of your job requires that you increase engagement of communities with your bank. How do you build these relationships?
Building relationships takes time and nourishment. My approach is holistic and organic, seeing that the process is about creating a win-win for businesses and community members who will benefit from increased access to banking services and enhanced economic opportunities. I’ve learned that building each relationship one person at a time is the absolute best method of merging communities with banks. I am very intentional in engaging in meaningful dialog, providing valuable resources, listening, being consistent in my actions and creating opportunity by offering alternative solutions to barriers that are both systemic and individual.
You serve on the boards of the Urban League’s Young Professionals as well as Annie Malone Children & Family Service Center’s Young Professionals. What advice would you give to tomorrow’s Young Leaders about participating in organizations such as these?
To all Young Leaders on the horizon I’d say get involved and stay involved. Make learning, leading and volunteering your time a lifetime commitment. I serve on nonprofit boards because I believe that being actively engaged and having a voice in the process is undeniably my civic duty. I think of the quote by John D. Rockefeller Jr. “every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity, an obligation; every possession, a duty.” I utilize this quote as a reminder of the value that I create for others as I take ownership of my role in the community and open doors for others.
What can you share about your role in the Diversity Council at Enterprise Bank & Trust?
Part of our strength as a company comes from the differences in our experiences and perspectives. As co- chair of the community segment of our Diversity Council, I use my voice to present and implement strategies that enhance exposure and stimulate inquiry by our associates and clients. This year our team has elected to celebrate Black History Month by displaying artwork in the branches that was created by an African-American artist. The purpose of displaying the artwork is to provide exposure for the artist and to demonstrate Enterprise Bank & Trust’s commitment to embracing and truly understanding the changing landscape of our client base.
Why have you decided to pursue an MBA?
I can attest that my leadership skills, self-discipline, interpersonal skills and understanding the art of negotiation have led to my success to date in the global market place. With the support of my company, I am welcoming the challenge of obtaining my MBA at Fontbonne University. I have planned and expect that earning my MBA will further strengthen the framework that allows me to be a bellwether in defining new compositions to recognize and solve business problems. It is the perfect time to equip myself with the skills I need to further my reach and achieve my professional goals.
