by LaTasha Jacobs

In 2012, I walked into a bank branch for the first time as an employee, not as a
customer. I was a part-time teller, learning the fundamentals of customer service, cash
handling, and the inner workings of financial institutions. I had no idea that this entry
level position would be the foundation for a career that would span over a decade and
ultimately lead me to where I am today: Executive Director of Pathway Financial
Education.
Starting from the Ground Up
Those early days as a teller taught me something invaluable: banking isn’t just about
numbers, it’s about people. Every transaction was an opportunity to build trust, solve
problems, and make someone’s day a little easier. I listened to customers’ financial
concerns, learned about their goals, and saw firsthand how access to the right
resources could change lives.
But I also saw the gaps. I noticed how many people walked through our doors lacking
basic financial knowledge. They didn’t understand credit, savings strategies, or how to
build generational wealth. These observations planted a seed that would eventually
grow into my life’s work.
Climbing the Ladder: Personal Banker and Beyond
My dedication and performance didn’t go unnoticed. I quickly transitioned from part-time
teller to full-time personal banker. In this role, I wasn’t just processing transactions
anymore, but I was helping customers open their first savings accounts, secure auto
loans, and understand mortgage options. I became a trusted advisor, someone people
turned to when they needed guidance.
The role of personal banker was transformative. It sharpened my financial acumen and
deepened my understanding of how financial products could empower or, if misused,
hurt individuals and families. I became passionate about financial education, realizing
that knowledge was the bridge between financial struggle and financial freedom.
Stepping Into Leadership
By 2015, I had moved into management at UMB Bank. As a Customer Relationship
Manager, Personal Banker III, and Branch Manager II, I leading teams, meeting sales
goals, and managed the largest transactional branch within our footprint. But beyond
the metrics, I focused on developing my team members and creating a culture of
excellence and customer-centricity.
Management taught me the importance of vision, strategy, and execution. I learned how
to coach new team members to independence, how to drive profitability while
maintaining integrity, and how to balance operational efficiency with genuine care for
the communities we served.
From 2019 to 2021, I served as Regional Float Manager and Assistant Vice President,
leading operational projects across branches. During this time, I developed a keen
understanding of expense management, team development, and how to streamline
processes to deliver better customer experiences.
Finding My True Calling: Community Development
In December 2021, my career took a pivotal turn when I became a Community
Development Bankers, Assistant Vice President at UMB Bank. This role aligned
perfectly with my passion for financial empowerment. I delivered financial education
workshops to economically, ethnically, and racially diverse communities. I partnered
with nonprofits and housing groups to address systemic financial barriers. I supported
Community Reinvestment Act compliance through data reporting and needs
assessments.
For the first time in my career, I wasn’t just helping individuals, I was contributing to
systemic change. I was connecting clients with resources, strengthening community
relationships, and advocating for financial empowerment on a larger scale.
This role confirmed what I had long suspected: my purpose was bigger than any
individual transaction or sales goal. It was about closing the wealth gap, one person,
one household, and one community at a time.
Taking the Leap: Executive Director of Pathway Financial Education
In October 2023, I stepped into the role I was meant for: Executive Director of Pathway
Financial Education. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to delivering impactful
financial education to underserved and under-resourced communities, with a focus on
addressing the racial wealth gap.
As Executive Director of Pathway Financial Education, I oversee all aspects of the
organization; from strategic planning and program development to partnership building
and financial management. I’ve launched innovative programs addressing the needs of
low-income families, small businesses, and high school students. I’ve expanded our
reach by 30% through mission-aligned partnerships. I’ve secured funding that has
increased our annual operating revenue. Lastly, I’ve developed culturally tailored
curricula that have improved financial literacy outcomes for the communities we serve.
Beyond the metrics, we’ve built a network of professional volunteers who deliver expert
led training and mentorship. I’ve established policies and procedures that ensure
consistent, effective program delivery. And I’ve become a visible advocate for economic
equity, representing Pathway Financial Education at community events, conferences,
and industry forums.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Reflecting on my journey from part-time teller to executive leader, several lessons stand
out:
Start where you are. Every role I held, from teller to personal banker to manager,
taught me something essential. I didn’t rush the process; I learned deeply at every level.
Listen to the community. The financial challenges I witnessed as a teller shaped my
understanding of what people truly need. Listening to customers and community
members has always guided my work.
Build relationships, not just transactions. Banking is a people business. The
relationships I built with customers, colleagues, and community partners have been the
foundation of my success.
Invest in others. Whether coaching new team members or mentoring individuals
toward financial stability, the most rewarding part of my career has been helping others
grow.
Stay mission driven. Since my earliest days in banking, I’ve been motivated by a
desire to make a difference. Staying true to that mission has led me to work that’s not
just successful, but meaningful.
Looking Ahead
The journey from teller to executive director has been challenging, rewarding, and
transformative. I’ve learned that career growth isn’t just about moving up, it’s about
moving forward with purpose.
Today, I’m proud to lead an organization that empowers individuals, strengthens
communities, and works toward economic equity. But I know the work is far from
finished. The wealth gap persists. Financial literacy gaps remain. And too many people
still lack access to the resources they need to achieve financial stability.
That’s why I show up every day, not just as an Executive Director, but as someone who
remembers what it was like to start from the ground up, to learn by doing, and to believe
that change is possible.
If my journey has taught me anything, it’s this: where you start doesn’t determine where
you’ll end up. What matters is your commitment to growth, your willingness to serve,
and your belief that everyone deserves a pathway to financial freedom.
And that’s a journey I’m honored to continue.