Linda Jenkins became an orphan when she was 7. Jenkins’ sister — who was 25 years older — took her in.
“My sister raised me right along with her own family,” Jenkins said. “She became my mother, and I always called her that.”
Jenkins’ sister inspired her to always help others. She has built a 42-year career at Regions Bank on that premise. She is the Consumer Banking Manager in Anniston, Alabama. She coaches over a dozen branch-banking teams by setting high expectations for herself – and providing a blueprint for others to follow so they can reach their career goals as well.
I’ve had great mentors that have taken the time to help me in my personal and professional life. I’ve always wanted to pay it forward.
Linda Jenkins, Regions Consumer Banking Manager
“I’ve had great mentors that have taken the time to help me in my personal and professional life. I’ve always wanted to pay it forward to see if I could help someone to be a better banker, better person, just to help them become what they would like to be,” Jenkins said. “Sometimes people don’t even realize their potential until you encourage them. Once they accomplish it, it makes you feel good about the time that you have invested in them.”
Jenkins is also Regions’ Market Executive for Anniston. As the “public face” of the bank in the area, people naturally connect her to the Regions brand.
“I see myself as the eyes and ears of the community,” Jenkins said. “When I’m serving other organizations, I’m representing the bank. If I go somewhere and no one says, ‘That’s Linda; she’s with Regions,’ then I’m down on my job.”
Regions Consumer Banking Manager Linda Jenkins of Anniston, Ala., is the “public face” of the bank in the community. “When I’m serving other organizations, I’m representing the bank. If I go somewhere and no one says, ‘That’s Linda; she’s with Regions,’ then I’m down on my job.”
Citing her four decades of building goodwill, high-performing teams and a legacy of compassion on the bank’s behalf, Regions presented Jenkins with the Better Life Award on Wednesday. The Better Life Award is the top honor given to a Regions associate for outstanding dedication and job performance, as well as exemplary involvement and commitment to the community.
In addition to the Better Life Award, Regions donates $1,000 in the name of the recipient to a nonprofit organization of the winner’s choice. Jenkins chose Interfaith Ministries, which bridges faith groups and connects individuals and families in need with resources that can help.
Jenkins says the donation will support the organization’s Meals on Wheels program, a cause that is dear to her heart.
“Before my sister passed away a few years ago, they brought her food during the week. It was more than a nutritious meal, it was really company – she knew that once a day, someone would come and visit with her,” Jenkins said. “I have a personal interest in that. That’s where my passion is, and I feel like they can really use the help.”
To see Jenkins’ passion for her community in action, be sure to check out this video on Regions’ YouTube Channel. Get ready to get inspired.