1. Please provide a brief description of yourself and your role as Senior Vice President, Retail Sales and Service Manager at John Marshall Bank.

In my current role as SVP, Retail Sales and Service Manager, I am primarily responsible for overseeing the management of all of JMB’s branches including retaining clients, supervising the branch staff, identifying business development opportunities and new customer relationships. I have worked in this role with John Marshall Bank for about three years. I am actively involved in volunteer organizations throughout the Northern Virginia area including serving as a Coach for the McLean Youth Basketball Team and serving as the Chair of Membership for the Falls Church Chamber of Commerce. 

2. What led you to the banking profession?

I have been in banking for almost 30 years. Before I graduated from George Mason University, I was a part-time teller at a local bank. Once I received my degree, I was recommended to the Bank’s Management Trainee Program by my former manager. From there, I received multiple promotions throughout a number of different banks in the region until landing at JMB. 

3. Who is the most influential woman you know? How does she inspire you?

I would say the most influential woman for me is my mother. She has always had a strong work ethic. I’ve learned the value of putting an honest effort into anything you do from watching my mother throughout my childhood.

4. What advice do you have for women who want to grow/begin their careers in the finance and/or commercial banking industry?

My advice would be to not be afraid to try something new or outside of your comfort zone. While bank products, services, and regulations can be complex, this is an expertise that can be learned. This is why new experiences are so incredibly valuable because they provide the context to make better situational decisions.

5. What’s one childhood lesson that you still practice to this day? 

“Don’t ever ask anyone to do something you wouldn’t do yourself.”

6. What are you most proud of in your career? 

I am proud of my election as the Chairman of the Board for the Fall Church, VA Chamber of Commerce. Prior to my appointment, there had not been a female Chairman within the last decade. I am honored to have been able to use this opportunity (among others) to serve as a role model for my three daughters. 

7. You get to have dinner with one famous person. Who do you choose and what would you ask them?

I would choose to have dinner with Michelle Obama. I would ask her about her perspective on how to have a well-balanced approach to serving the community, your profession, and your family. 

8. How do you support, honor, and celebrate other women in the industry? 

I always take the opportunity to recognize others for their successes either in person, online (like LinkedIn), or by other means. It’s important that we speak up in this way to make sure the great work that is being done in the banking industry by women is being noticed.