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May 29, 2025
The Bank of Elk River is proud to announce the retirement of Lori Hagen, who has dedicated 35 years of exemplary service to the bank and its customers.
Hagen began her career at the bank in 1990 as a teller and has since held a diverse array of roles, including personal banker, branch manager, loan operations manager, call center manager, and most recently, retail operations specialist.
Reflecting on her tenure at the bank, Hagen highlighted technological advancements as the most significant changes she witnessed. "Check 21, which allowed images of checks to be considered legal documents, was a major leap forward for the banking industry," Hagen remarked. "Other notable advancements include the introduction of debit cards and the rise of online banking."
As one can imagine, 35 years working at one organization results in an impressive depth of knowledge, a comprehensive understanding of many topics, and unforgettable friendships. "A highlight of my career is working with so many talented, wonderful, caring co-workers and being part of an organization that values its employees and customers alike," Hagen said.
Many co-workers echo her sentiment, whether they worked with Hagen for just a few months or decades. "Lori has been a cornerstone of my early success at The Bank of Elk River," said Kristy McCreary, director of operations and relatively new to the bank. "Lori's ability to take charge and efficiently handle complex situations has been a tremendous asset. Her departure will be deeply felt, both by me and the entire bank."
Chief Operating Officer Bill LaVigne worked with Hagen for more than 25 years and had this to say about her retirement: "I could always count on Lori to know the answer to complex situations that puzzled others, and to provide an honest and fair assessment of virtually any situation. Additionally, Lori’s knowledge and perspective have been invaluable to the bank, making her our ultimate Swiss army knife and an amazing resource for so many. The void she will leave behind is significant, and we will miss her dearly.”
Hagen’s last day at The Bank of Elk River will be Friday, May 30.
Hagen began her career at the bank in 1990 as a teller and has since held a diverse array of roles, including personal banker, branch manager, loan operations manager, call center manager, and most recently, retail operations specialist.
Reflecting on her tenure at the bank, Hagen highlighted technological advancements as the most significant changes she witnessed. "Check 21, which allowed images of checks to be considered legal documents, was a major leap forward for the banking industry," Hagen remarked. "Other notable advancements include the introduction of debit cards and the rise of online banking."
As one can imagine, 35 years working at one organization results in an impressive depth of knowledge, a comprehensive understanding of many topics, and unforgettable friendships. "A highlight of my career is working with so many talented, wonderful, caring co-workers and being part of an organization that values its employees and customers alike," Hagen said.
Many co-workers echo her sentiment, whether they worked with Hagen for just a few months or decades. "Lori has been a cornerstone of my early success at The Bank of Elk River," said Kristy McCreary, director of operations and relatively new to the bank. "Lori's ability to take charge and efficiently handle complex situations has been a tremendous asset. Her departure will be deeply felt, both by me and the entire bank."
Chief Operating Officer Bill LaVigne worked with Hagen for more than 25 years and had this to say about her retirement: "I could always count on Lori to know the answer to complex situations that puzzled others, and to provide an honest and fair assessment of virtually any situation. Additionally, Lori’s knowledge and perspective have been invaluable to the bank, making her our ultimate Swiss army knife and an amazing resource for so many. The void she will leave behind is significant, and we will miss her dearly.”
Hagen’s last day at The Bank of Elk River will be Friday, May 30.
