Not only do we enjoy seeing new faces being added to the Prairie State Bank & Trust family, but we LOVE familiar faces when they assume new roles within the organization. Congratulations go out to Ashley Hawkins as she enters her new position as Mortgage Loan Officer for Mt. Zion. For those of you that don’t already know Ashley, take moment, read our interview with her below and get to know her!
PSB&T: How long have you been with the company and what led up to you choosing this new role?
AH: I've been with PSB&T since May 2015 and have held various positions within the retail team. I have served as both a Regional and a Branch Manager throughout the last 5 years and was ready to dive into a new challenge with lending.
PSB&T: How do you feel your role here at Prairie State Bank & Trust will allow you more opportunities to give back to the community?
AH: My new role has allowed more flexibility to explore the needs of the community, whereas before I was mostly stationary. I not only hear what's going on but I have an opportunity to see firsthand where the needs are and attend/sponsor the events that help support the community.
PSB&T: Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?
AH: It's not so hidden, but I love to bake custom cakes and other goodies. Growing up, my mom made the best chocolate chip cookies and my passion for baking started about 10 years ago when I tried to replicate her recipe. It took a ton of failed attempts to get them just right, but when I finally did, I was hooked on baking from scratch and wondered what else I could create.
PSB&T: What's the best place you’ve travelled to?
AH: Cancun and New York City. Both trips were amazing for different reasons, can't choose just one!
PSB&T: What motivates you at work?
AH: Knowing that I can positively impact people's lives is such a rewarding feeling. My husband and I bought our first house in 2022 and had no idea what to expect when getting a home loan. Needless to say, we were quite surprised at how much goes into the process. I've made it my mission to help consumers understand the home loan process and feel supported by their lender every step of the way.
We are so excited to welcome Ashley into her new role and we encourage everyone to give her a warm smile and reception!