Locations & ATMs
Community Stories
Mar 6, 2025
As The Bank of Elk River marks a significant milestone, we take a moment to celebrate the remarkable 35-year career of Lori Hagen. Since she joined the bank on March 9, 1990, Lori has been an instrumental part of the banking community, exemplifying dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to customer service.
Lori's journey began with determination as she drove around town, submitting applications and landing an interview with the bank's management team the next day. With her enthusiasm and skill, she was offered the Teller/Proof Operator position and started just two days later.
Her early years at the bank introduced her to a bustling world of transactions and operations. Using a SHARP 10-key machine, Lori meticulously entered checks and deposit slips, balancing transactions with precision. While the technology may have evolved, Lori's commitment to serving customers has remained constant.
During her first seven years as a teller, she found fulfillment in helping customers with their banking needs. In 1997, she transitioned to a Personal Banker position, opening new accounts, IRAs, and CDs.
Lori recalls a time when debit cards were a novel concept, requiring her to actively promote their adoption to customers hesitant about the change. Fast-forward to today, banking has transformed, with debit cards now being an everyday necessity.
Her career took a significant turn in 2006 when she became the manager of the School Street branch, leading a remodeled and expanded location. By 2009, she stepped into the role of Loan Operations Manager, overseeing all commercial and consumer loan operations. Though initially lacking experience in the lending side, Lori embraced the challenge, fostering strong relationships with her team and mastering the intricacies of loan processing.
In subsequent years, Lori continued to evolve within the organization. In 2015, she shifted back to retail operations, managing the teller line and supporting banking staff. By 2020, she took on the role of Call Center Manager, where her adaptability shone through as she juggled multiple responsibilities and ensured comprehensive customer support.
In 2021, Lori transitioned to a Retail Operations Specialist position. She has excelled in training, procedure management, and project oversight while maintaining her passion for helping others succeed. Whether answering loan inquiries or reviewing legal documents, Lori's multitasking skills and expert knowledge prove invaluable.
Looking back on her journey, Lori celebrates the supportive culture cultivated by the Babcock family and the bank's commitment to community values as key factors in her success. "I have loved coming to work for the past 35 years, which is why I've stayed," she shares. Lori highlights the importance of the relationships she has developed over time, expressing, "There's a wonderful sense of camaraderie and warmth here."
Chris Niskanen, Senior Vice President, states, "Lori has an incredible depth of knowledge about our community bank. She always provides the historical context and insights needed to navigate challenges. Her guidance has been an invaluable resource that I appreciate every day."
Kristy McCreary, Director of Operations added, "Lori has been a tremendous asset to the bank. Her loyalty and dedication are exactly what we aim for when hiring team members. I am grateful to have her as part of the organization and appreciate her contributions immensely."
As we celebrate Lori Hagen's dedication, we recognize her as an integral part of The Bank of Elk River's story. Her remarkable career serves as an inspiring testament to the values of hard work and commitment to customer service. Here's to Lori and the many more achievements as she continues her journey with the bank and the community she cherishes.
Lori's journey began with determination as she drove around town, submitting applications and landing an interview with the bank's management team the next day. With her enthusiasm and skill, she was offered the Teller/Proof Operator position and started just two days later.
Her early years at the bank introduced her to a bustling world of transactions and operations. Using a SHARP 10-key machine, Lori meticulously entered checks and deposit slips, balancing transactions with precision. While the technology may have evolved, Lori's commitment to serving customers has remained constant.
During her first seven years as a teller, she found fulfillment in helping customers with their banking needs. In 1997, she transitioned to a Personal Banker position, opening new accounts, IRAs, and CDs.
Lori recalls a time when debit cards were a novel concept, requiring her to actively promote their adoption to customers hesitant about the change. Fast-forward to today, banking has transformed, with debit cards now being an everyday necessity.
Her career took a significant turn in 2006 when she became the manager of the School Street branch, leading a remodeled and expanded location. By 2009, she stepped into the role of Loan Operations Manager, overseeing all commercial and consumer loan operations. Though initially lacking experience in the lending side, Lori embraced the challenge, fostering strong relationships with her team and mastering the intricacies of loan processing.
In subsequent years, Lori continued to evolve within the organization. In 2015, she shifted back to retail operations, managing the teller line and supporting banking staff. By 2020, she took on the role of Call Center Manager, where her adaptability shone through as she juggled multiple responsibilities and ensured comprehensive customer support.
In 2021, Lori transitioned to a Retail Operations Specialist position. She has excelled in training, procedure management, and project oversight while maintaining her passion for helping others succeed. Whether answering loan inquiries or reviewing legal documents, Lori's multitasking skills and expert knowledge prove invaluable.
Looking back on her journey, Lori celebrates the supportive culture cultivated by the Babcock family and the bank's commitment to community values as key factors in her success. "I have loved coming to work for the past 35 years, which is why I've stayed," she shares. Lori highlights the importance of the relationships she has developed over time, expressing, "There's a wonderful sense of camaraderie and warmth here."
Chris Niskanen, Senior Vice President, states, "Lori has an incredible depth of knowledge about our community bank. She always provides the historical context and insights needed to navigate challenges. Her guidance has been an invaluable resource that I appreciate every day."
Kristy McCreary, Director of Operations added, "Lori has been a tremendous asset to the bank. Her loyalty and dedication are exactly what we aim for when hiring team members. I am grateful to have her as part of the organization and appreciate her contributions immensely."
As we celebrate Lori Hagen's dedication, we recognize her as an integral part of The Bank of Elk River's story. Her remarkable career serves as an inspiring testament to the values of hard work and commitment to customer service. Here's to Lori and the many more achievements as she continues her journey with the bank and the community she cherishes.
