In one line: What do you help clients do faster or better?
I help clients understand their financing options clearly so they can move from “idea” to “action” with confidence.
What’s one myth about banking you love to bust?
The myth that lending requirements are a big secret. I enjoy working with businesses to provide guidance and transparency on how we can get to “yes,” either today or in the future.
Describe your banking style in three words. Consultative, responsive, and engaged.
What types of clients do you work with most often, and why?
While I work with businesses of all sizes and industries, I tend to work most closely with nonprofit organizations and healthcare providers. These sectors are both critical to our community’s health, literally and figuratively. Playing even a small part in “helping the helpers” is incredibly rewarding.
A recent client win you’re proud of (no names/details)—what made it work?
One of my favorite recent wins involved a mission-driven organization that needed clarity on how to structure financing for a larger project. By walking through their financials together, talking openly about lending requirements, and mapping out a path from “not yet” to “here’s how we get there,” we turned a stressful conversation into a strategic plan. The win came from communication, collaboration, and a willingness to be transparent on both sides.
What is one simple control or tool every business should turn on in online banking?
Fraud controls. Tools like Positive Pay and account alerts or notifications are simple to set up and can make a big difference in identifying unusual transactions early.
Favorite “aha” moment you give clients during onboarding?
That they never have to navigate things alone. When clients realize they can call us any time and that we are here to make things easier, you can almost see the relief on their faces.
What’s one way you try to save a client time each week?
I make sure clients are connected to the right people within Summit to get fast, accurate answers. I also help them find and use online banking tools that streamline their processes, so they spend less time managing transactions and more time running their organization.
What local nonprofit or cause are you most involved with right now—and why?
I have served on the Kids FIRST Board of Directors for three years. Kids FIRST is a local Children’s Advocacy Center that works collaboratively with first responders to support children who have witnessed or been victims of violence. I am involved because it is crucial to have a qualified team providing trauma-informed care and ensuring that our law enforcement partners have high-quality information to accurately inform the judicial process.
Favorite small business to shout out this month? During my short time at Summit, I have been exploring the coffee shops within walking distance of our downtown office. My go-to spots have been Farmers Union Coffee Roasters and Sparrow’s Nest. Thank you for the delicious coffee and welcoming atmosphere!
Your perfect Oregon weekend: where are you eating, shopping, or getting outside? In the summer, I love being in Bend. On a perfect weekend, I hope to do all three: eating, shopping, and getting outside, but if I had to choose just one, being outdoors in the sun would win every time.
For Jamie: Banking in Eugene/Springfield
What’s unique about banking in Eugene/Springfield?
Business owners here are accustomed to a high level of service from their banking partners given the quality of community banks in the area. I feel fortunate to work for a bank headquartered in Eugene, with leadership, staff, and board members who truly understand what it means to do business in Lane County because they live and work here, too.
A common finance roadblock you help mission-driven orgs clear?
A common roadblock is figuring out how to move a capital project forward when much of the funding is tied to a capital campaign. We can often provide project financing based on reliable multi-year pledges, helping organizations achieve their goals more quickly and mitigate potential increases in project costs.
One metric board members should watch more closely—and why?
Unrestricted cash. Organizations should monitor their unrestricted cash levels through a rolling 6–12-month pro forma. Understanding the projected unrestricted cash balance relative to unrestricted cash needs provides boards with a clearer picture of flexibility, risk, and long-term sustainability.
First job you ever had—and a lesson you still use?
One of my first jobs was at a restaurant in my hometown. Over time, I worked most of the “front of house” positions. A manager frequently reminded us, “If you have time to lean, you have time to clean.” My work ethic was built during those high school and college jobs, and that mindset of staying engaged and looking for ways to help has never left me.
What’s on your desk that tells a story?
I have three painted rocks in my office, each with its own meaning. One reads “courage” and was given to me by a dear friend and mentor. When I have moments of doubt or anxiety, it is a powerful reminder that with a little courage, I can accomplish most things.
Coffee order or go-to mid-day fuel?
Coffee is my happy place. A common order for me is a vanilla latte or a dirty vanilla chai.
Book/podcast/course you recommend to entrepreneurs right now?
For business and leadership, I enjoy the podcasts, “CFO Thought Leader” and “How I Built This.” Both offer great insight into how organizations grow, adapt, and make financial decisions.
Outside of work: what recharges you?
If the weather is nice, I love being outside. And somewhat strangely, I find it relaxing to clean and organize while listening to podcasts or music. It is a nice reset that lets me clear both my space and my mind.