Kerri Collins presented Becky (right) with a certificate at the open house celebrating Becky’s 35 years of service on June 21.

When asked what she’d do differently, if she could change anything about her career here, Sturgeon Bay Branch Manager Becky Kolstad keeps her answer simple and to the point.

“Nothing,” she says. “I enjoy helping customers and making them feel financially secure, and I like helping my employees succeed.”

In fact, Becky has been helping North Shore Bank customers and employees for 35 years. And it has kept her busy, but the rewards have been worth it.

“I love it when I can turn customers’ worries into smiles and a better understanding of what they currently have or where they want to be financially,” she says. “I also enjoy watching my employees apply what they have learned — when they are successful, so is everyone around them. When customers tell me what a great job my employees are doing, it makes me feel very proud.”

She credits her parents with instilling her with the ethic that guides her. “They taught me to work hard, be honest and true to yourself, and to always treat people the way you would want to be treated,” Becky says. She says she knew from early on that she would have a job helping others, and notes, “If you are optimistic about what will happen daily, your day will always be brighter.”

The ad for Becky’s open house featured some blasts from the past.

Becky’s optimism has paid off. In 2000, she was named Branch Manager of the Year; the Algoma office she led won a Branch of the Year award then as well.

But an even happier memory is more personal. “An old employee of mine contacted me to thank me for believing in her and helping her to grow in her position,” Becky recalls. “She later became the best person in her department in sales and eventually a branch manager with another institution.”

“Becky’s drive and dedication to deliver excellent customer service are to be commended,” says District Manager Kerri Collins. “She is a true asset to her team, her customers, and the North District.”

Things have been especially hectic lately, as our Sturgeon Bay East and West branches prepare to merge into one location. But Becky is realistic about how to thrive under the circumstances.

“I do the best that I can and take it day by day,” she says. “I sometimes have to remind myself to stop and enjoy the little treasures in my life, and to be thankful for everything I have.”