Assistant Vice President & Branch Manager, Glens Falls National Bank

Hometown: Plattsburgh, NY
Age: 30
Education: BA, History and Political Science with a Minor in Business Administration; member of Phi Alpha Theta History Honor Society; The College of Saint Rose, Albany, NY
Community Involvement: Senior Citizens Council of Clinton County, Board of Directors and Finance Committee; Plattsburgh Chamber of Commerce, Ambassador; Girl Scouts Women of Distinction, committee member and event organizer; Champlain Valley Business & Professional Women, committee member

What’s your biggest professional success?

Being awarded the 2017 Regional and State Young Careerist by the Business and Professional Women. I am truly honored and proud to be recognized for this achievement.

What’s your dream job?

To pursue my passion for volunteerism and support of nonprofit organizations that make a difference in our community. I’m lucky to be already living out my dream job.

How do you maintain a work/life balance?

Choosing a career that I’m passionate about. Having a career that allows me to do what I love makes my job less about what I NEED to do, and more about what I WANT to do.

What important lessons have you learned in your career?

Lead by example, and build a rapport with your co-workers. Over the years my fellow employees have become what I would consider my “work family.” I take great pride in knowing that as a manager, I have the ability to lead by example. When I walk into work in the morning it’s my attitude, work ethic, and approach to the day that directly shapes the work atmosphere for my team.

What’s the most exciting trend happening in the community right now?

Diversification in our community and workforce. The shift in population has resulted in more women and minorities entering the workforce and taking on leadership positions. Diversity is the trend of the future, and it breeds innovative businesses in our community. As Stephen R. Covey says, “Strength lies in differences, not in similarities.”

What would make the North Country a more enjoyable place to live and work?

I can’t think of a single thing I would change about the North Country. When I moved back to Plattsburgh three years ago, the first thing I noticed was our welcoming and supportive community. Not only do we have amazing local pride, but we live in the most beautiful area with unlimited things to do.

Who is your mentor and what have you learned from him/her?

My Mother. Her genuine personality makes her adored by anyone who is lucky enough to know her. She is the true definition of a modern-day superwoman. She taught me to believe in myself, and that through hard work anything is attainable.

How do you contribute to the culture of your company?

Glens Falls National Bank is very community oriented. I take great pride knowing that part of my job is to represent the bank by volunteering and supporting our local community. This type of culture comes with a sense of pride that is felt across our bank.

What’s the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?

Leaving my well-established career in the Capital District, and moving back to the North Country. It was the biggest risk I have ever taken, and it ended up being the best decision in my life thus far.

What is something that no one would guess about you?

I give myself a “pep talk” every single morning. There is no better motivator than the inspirational speaker inside of yourself.

Write a brief note to your younger self…

Be patient, trust your gut, and take every second you can to enjoy life’s precious moments. Just remember that life has a plan for you, and it’s leading you right where you belong.