TACOMA, WA / ACCESSWIRE / July 3, 2023 / Commencement Bank (OTCQX:CBWA) is excited to announce their expansion into Gig Harbor, Wash. This expansion is led by longtime resident and experienced banker, Allisha McVay. Along with a hand-selected local banking team to support her, McVay will begin her outreach from the former Umpqua/Columbia branch located at 3006 Judson Street. Commencement intends to convert the loan production office into a full-service branch, pending regulatory approval. The office is anticipated to open in early August 2023.

"This market has been at the top of our list for several years now. After listening to client feedback and considering the opportunities presented as a result of the Columbia/Umpqua merger, the only missing piece was finding a respected banker with deep roots in the community. I am pleased to say we found that banker in Allisha and we are excited to welcome her to our team," said John E. Manolides, CEO.

McVay has an impressive history and joins Commencement following a 19-year tenure as branch manager for the former Columbia Bank's Gig Harbor locations. Prior to that, she held positions at various financial institutions giving her nearly 30 years of experience in the industry. Her familiarity with the market and extensive background, complemented by her passion for customer service, is evidenced by the numerous awards she has earned for outstanding performance and commitment to the community.

"We couldn't have found a more qualified banker to lead our expansion. I have known Allisha for nearly 20 years. Her commitment to community involvement and reputation for superior customer service aligns perfectly with our vision to bring local, personalized banking to the Gig Harbor market," said Nigel L. English, President & Chief Operating Officer.

McVay will begin her position on Monday, July 10^th, and will be joined by the rest of her team in the following weeks.

Allisha McVay
VP, Relationship Banking Officer

About Commencement Bank

Commencement Bank, headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, was formed in 2006 to provide traditional, reliable, and sustainable banking in Pierce, South King, Thurston counties and the surrounding areas. Their team of banking experts focuses on personal attention, flexible service, and building strong relationships with customers through state-of-the-art technology as well as traditional delivery systems. As a local bank, Commencement Bank is deeply committed to the community. For more information, please visit www.commencementbank.com. For information related to the trading of CBWA, please visit www.otcmarkets.com.

Contact Information:

John E. Manolides, Chief Executive Officer | 253.284.1802
Nigel L. English, President, and Chief Operating Officer | 253.284.1801
James Miller, SVP, Commercial Banking Team Leader | 253.284.1851
General Inquiries: hello@commencementbank.com

SOURCE: Commencement Bank