How did you get started in the business? – I began my banking career in 1994 after getting married and relocating to a new community. As I looked for opportunities to build a career, I had always been interested in working in the banking industry, so I started applying to local banks. I was fortunate to get my start as a teller, a role that provided a strong foundation and opened the door to a variety of opportunities for me to move throughout the organization and learn about different areas of the bank. Over the years, I’ve worked in personal banking, consumer lending, management, business banking, commercial lending, commercial card, commercial payments and treasury management. Each role helped me develop a well-rounded perspective on banking. The experience I gained led me to where I am today: helping businesses navigate challenges, build relationships and achieve their goals through the right financial solutions.
Tell us a little about your family. – My husband, John, and I have been married for 32 years, and we’re incredibly proud of the family we’ve built together. We have two adult daughters, Paige and Jena, a son and daughter-in-law, Ryan and Julie, and their children/our grandchildren—Maxwell, Beckham and Sebastian. We feel very fortunate to have a close-knit family and love spending time together whenever we can. Our family is what I’m most proud of!
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Starting a family was one of the biggest turning points in my life. Becoming a parent gave me a whole new perspective on what truly matters and taught me lessons I carry with me every day. Parenthood has taught me responsibility, resilience, patience, leadership and selflessness, but perhaps most importantly, it has taught me unconditional love and how to appreciate the simple moments in life. It has challenged me and helped shape the person I am today. Many of the lessons I’ve learned as a parent have also made me a better leader, colleague and friend.
Who inspires you? – I am blessed to be surrounded by family and friends who inspire me every day. Two of my greatest inspirations are my incredible 96-year-old mother and my amazing father who has since passed away. They led by example, instilling in me a strong work ethic, unwavering faith, and a commitment to family. Their strength, resilience, kindness and grace continue to guide me and remind me to persevere through any challenge with optimism and purpose.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift.”
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Kind.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – The Millard Business Community Foundation has always held a special place in my heart. I have been involved with the organization since its inception in 2010, serving on the Board of Directors as Treasurer and as Chair of the Scholarship Committee. Its mission resonates with me because it provides an opportunity to give back to the community where my family was raised. The Foundation’s primary focus is supporting local youth through two impactful programs. Project Wee Care brings hope and joy to hundreds of families each holiday season by providing food, gifts, and a family-centered community event. Our High School Scholarship Program awards six $2,000 scholarships annually to students in the Millard area, helping them pursue their educational goals. Being part of an organization that invests in families, students and the future of our community has been incredibly rewarding, and I am proud to contribute to its ongoing success.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Dolly Parton.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – I would love to connect! I can be reached at (402) 408-1881 or jnelson@bankerstrust.com.