The Wisconsin Mortgage Bankers Association has named six North Shore Bank employees as finalists in the organization’s eighth annual Best in Business Awards. These finalists have been recognized by their peers for their contributions to WMBA and the banking industry.

Best in Leadership
Chris Boland, VP, Consumer Lending Manager

“Chris is a natural pick for the Best in Leadership award,” says his boss, Mike Kellman. “He takes a fair and balanced approach to management and is very willing to listen to all sides and ideas. His team really enjoys working with him, as he helps elevate their performance. I would like to congratulate him on this momentous achievement of becoming a finalist.”

Best Originator (Other Markets)
Amy DeMain, Mortgage Loan Officer

“Amy is great,” says her boss, Chris Boland. “She is an advocate for her customers, the bank, and making sure the process is smooth and successful for all involved. She is the go-to in Door County and is well deserving of this honor.”

Best in Processing (Other Markets)
Brett Staeven, Residential Loan Specialist

“Brett is highly motivated and passionate about what he does,” says boss Cindy Nell. “He works well with everyone internally and externally, and puts forth great effort to get loans processed and closed in a timely fashion. Brett is focused and detailed and always shows concern for the work he performs. He looks at every situation as an opportunity to expand his knowledge. It is a pleasure to work with someone who has such a strong work ethic.”

Best in Servicing
Joe Fretschel, VP, Loan Servicing Manager

“I am pleased to see that Joe is being recognized for the second year in a row for his servicing expertise,” says boss Nicole Daniels. “Joe is an integral leader in the Loan Operations area, not only in the servicing space but in all areas of lending. There is nothing he isn’t prepared to handle, and he ensures accuracy every step of the way in addition to making the workplace a fun place to be! Congratulations!”

Best in Underwriting
Melissa Wantuch, Senior Mortgage Underwriter

“Melissa is fearless when it comes to underwriting, always eager to take on the most complex files,” boss Gina Bontempo says. “She works with incredible speed and accuracy, delivering outstanding service to our processing and lending teams. Melissa is an invaluable resource to me and the rest of our team!”

Rising Star
Jordan Daul, Mortgage Loan Originator Trainee

“I would like to congratulate Jordan on being named a Rising Star finalist,” boss Mike Murphy says. “Jordan maintains a high profile in the real estate community through his frequent involvement in both industry and self-initiated events. He has the respect of his customers, co-workers, and business partners. Again, congratulations to him on this outstanding achievement.”

Winners in all categories will be announced at the eighth annual Best in Business Awards ceremony, taking place Thursday, April 7, at the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee. Congratulations once more to all six of our finalists!