First Bank’s Smart Cents featured one of our board members, Shannon Jones. She has served on the Havana BID since August 1, 2016 and we are so grateful for her leadership and advocacy of the On Havana Street businesses.
See Smart Cents article on February 15, 2019 here
FirstBank believes there’s unity in diversity. In February, we observe Black History Month by recognizing and celebrating some of FirstBank’s strongest Black and African American leaders.
Today, we’re featuring Aurora Market President, Shannon Jones.
Hometown: Aurora, CO
Years at FirstBank: 21.5 years
Other positions held with organizations/boards:
Describe your experience in getting to where you are today.
Throughout my nearly 22-year career with FirstBank, I have been surrounded by inspirational, hard-working leaders. While the financial industry is not very diverse, I looked forward to the challenge of being “the first” in many aspects of my career. The supportive leaders in my family, the community and within the bank, helped shape my career. They encouraged me to believe in myself, and enabled me to climb the ladder.
How has FirstBank’s companywide philosophy of “banking for good” impacted your life and your career?
One definition of “good” is “to conform to the moral order of the universe.” For me, “banking for good” encompasses everything moral about the financial world. I love the holistic meaning behind “banking for good.” It offers a sense of completeness. As human beings, it’s our duty to be “good” in all aspects of our lives.
What is the best career advice you have for the next generation of leaders? What would you tell someone just starting out?
Don’t be afraid to dream big. You can do anything you set your mind to. Shut down hindrances and know there will be others that want to hold you back. Remove them from your circle and surround yourself with positivity. Believe in yourself – you are good enough!
Considering February is Black History Month, which historical figure/s would you most like to meet and why?
There are so many, but one leader I’d love to meet is Harriet Tubman. She was born into slavery, and struggled her entire life. However, she somehow mustered the courage to escape and lead hundreds of other slaves to freedom. I’d like to ask her how she found strength to accomplish her great deeds and how she persevered.