Spencer Davis
Human Resources Officer/First Assistant V.P.
ANB Bank
How did you get started in the banking industry?
I started my career in the non-profit industry out of college. After having the opportunity to interview for my position at ANB Bank, I recognized the commitment to the community, the passion to develop employees and a culture that blew me away. I was honored to be offered the position and accepted, and I genuinely believe it was the best decision I have made for my family and my future.
What do you like to do to give back to the community?
I sit on the Colorado Fallen Hero Foundation and North Metro Community Services board of directors. Additionally, I have found so much enjoyment and passion in working with the Colorado Bankers Association and seeing the impact that the CBA has on communities all across Colorado. As a Colorado native, these roles allow me to contribute to causes close to my heart while supporting the well-being and growth of the community that has shaped me.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is the opportunity to positively impact the employees and the organization. I strive to foster a positive work environment, help employees grow and develop their careers, and ensure that all voices are heard and valued. By aligning HR strategies with business goals, I feel like I contribute to the overall success and future of the company and its people.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was younger, I aspired to become a politician and even dreamed of becoming the president of the United States. However, things changed quickly after graduating from college, getting married and being blessed with my two sons. Nonetheless, I still hold on to the hope that one day, I might have the opportunity to run for public office.
What is your favorite movie or book, and why?
“Harry Potter” is my favorite movie series of all time. The movies offer an escape into a world filled with adventure, friendship and timeless life lessons. The themes of courage, loyalty and the battle between good and evil resonate in the real world. I only hope my young kids will have the same crazy passion for Hogwarts and wizards that I do.
Matthew Hanson
Market President
Alpine Bank
How did you get started in the banking industry?
I found myself in banking in a roundabout way but also in a way that speaks to community banking. Prior to joining Alpine Bank, I worked at a golf course in the mountains, and one of our customers was a loan officer with Alpine Bank who helped us transition bank accounts to Alpine. Along the way, he mentioned that if I ever considered a career change to look him up. At about the time my wife and I had our first baby, I was looking for a change. He and I connected, and he subsequently connected me with Alpine Bank’s ops supervisor for the region, and the rest is history. Certainly a non-traditional route for me.
What do you like to do to give back to the community?
I think the most valuable thing I can offer to the community I serve is my time. I currently serve on five boards in the Colorado Springs community, and I love each of them: Downtown Partnership, the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region, Pikes Peak Hospice and Palliative Care, Police Foundation of Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak United Way. They each expose me to different areas of the community and stretch me in my service and perspective.
What is the most important thing you’ve learned from a career in banking?
As one who has a degree in psychology (rather than in finance), I ascribe to what Bank President Glen Jammaron continually reminds us: “Banking is just people dealing with people.” The moment I put my focus on something other than people — whether my staff, our customers or the community — I am missing the mark. The world of banking is hard enough; focusing on people and meeting them where they are will do more to change lives than any banking product can.
What is your favorite movie or book?
“A Tale of Two Cities.” Just a phenomenal period piece, set during one of the most turbulent times in recent history, examining the human condition to the core. But I could just as easily have mentioned “Les Misérables” or “Anna Karenina” or “Crime and Punishment” — all favorites.
Susie Stokes
VP — Assistant Cashier/Project Officer
Bank of Colorado
How did you get started in the banking industry?
In search of a flexible position that would accommodate my schedule while my daughter attended kindergarten, I learned through my neighbor about an opening for a part-time teller at her bank. Initially, I viewed it as a respectable stopgap job, yet to my surprise, I became quite passionate about it! The banking sector was a field I had never previously considered, but once onboard, it became apparent that this was the career path for me.
What makes your bank unique?
The distinct culture of Bank of Colorado sets us apart. We blend the community-oriented values of a small-town bank with the capabilities to deliver services comparable to the largest financial institutions. Our personal touch includes answering our own phones and welcoming customers by name, placing the importance of relationships above profit margins.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most fulfilling part of my work is having a positive impact on my colleagues. In my role as assistant cashier/project officer, I contribute to the efficient functioning of our bank and support our 700 team members. Working with a group of skilled and remarkable individuals is a privilege, and I take pride in the confidence placed in me to create and apply process enhancements, help us enter new markets and collectively provide top-notch services to our clientele.
What is your favorite movie or book, and why?
I’m an avid fiction reader, especially the works of Stephen King. “The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon” isn’t one of his most famous stories, but the way he portrays the protagonist immerses you immediately into her world. It’s a compelling exploration of the human mind and the complex path it navigates when faced with adversity. It’s a short novel, making for a quick read, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who enjoys fiction.
What do you listen to on your morning commute?
Listening to music while driving is my happy place. My musical preferences vary daily, but as a big fan of Blink 182, chances are you’ll catch me belting out the lyrics to “The Rock Show” when I’m on the road. It’s an excellent way to kick off the day!
Blair Suddarth
Marketing Manager
Graduate School of Banking at Colorado
How did you get started in the banking industry?
Growing up in Nebraska as the daughter of a community banker, I was naturally drawn to the field. During college, I held a communications and marketing internship at the Nebraska Bankers Association (NBA) from 2014-2016. When I graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University, I joined the NBA full-time in their Education Department from 2017-2019. In May 2019, I transitioned to a role at the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado (GSBC), moving to the Denver area to embrace this exciting new opportunity. I recently celebrated my five-year anniversary at GSBC, a place that has absolutely transformed me personally and professionally. I’ve learned that there are numerous unconventional paths into the banking industry that allow one to make significant contributions both locally and nationally, even without being a banker — and I am fortunate to have found those opportunities!
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is getting to know GSBC’s students, learning about their backgrounds, personalities and even their families. Our students spend considerable time with us in Colorado, and building these relationships is essential for the success of the educational programs we offer. Another key aspect of my role is facilitating connections among our students. Witnessing the friendships and professional networks that form among them brings me immense joy.
What is the most important thing you’ve learned from a career in banking?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is the significance of being future-oriented, seeking out opportunities for connection and fostering innovative cultures within the banking industry. The banking industry has demonstrated its resilience, underscoring the strength of the community aspect within it. Throughout my career, I’ve had exposure to some of the brightest minds in banking, and my confidence in the innovative potential of banks has never been stronger.
What do you listen to on your morning commute?
Shameless plug: I tune in to GSBC’s Bolder Banking Podcast! I genuinely enjoy listening to the latest episodes during my commute. Many episodes feature our alumni and students, and I love hearing their insights and passions. I highly recommend giving it a listen!
Do you know a deserving Colorado bank employee we should feature? Contact Patricia Wells at patricia@ColoradoBankers.org.
