roudly representing her community has been a longstanding family tradition for Cyd West. A descendent of one of Bell County’s earliest settlers and first county officials, Joseph Dennis, Cyd’s family has been in Central Texas for eight generations. Dennis was appointed chairman of a commission that helped establish the county seat at the site of Nolan Springs, present day Belton; and served eight years as the first treasurer of Bell County. Cyd has worked in the mortgage and banking industry for over 31 years and currently serves as the Senior Vice President of First Community Mortgage. This energetic, outgoing, self-professed “people-person,” is often the first to meet and greet newcomers to the community. “When they arrive one of the first things they need is a home. As I work with them throughout that process, I get the opportunity to tell them all about the area and highlight all the many wonderful things our community has to offer. I really just want them to enjoy living here as much as I do,” says Cyd. An active leader in the community, Cyd takes great pride in serving on a variety of community boards and organizations. “It really keeps me busy, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world,” she says. This past year she chaired the Viva le Arts Theatre and the Harker Heights Chamber of Commerce’s Inaugural Vision XXI leadership class. “I am so proud of my class. They adopted the Harker Heights Food Care Center and developed a website and an amazing campaign to raise awareness and funds for it,” says Cyd. Another organization very dear to her heart is the Bell-Coryell Counties Communities in Schools where she serves as the VP of finance. “I love kids and this organization really makes a difference in the lives of kids right here in Central Texas.” Another big project for her this past year has been preparing for the Metroplex Hospital Gala, which she cochaired with her niece Hillary Shine. “We’re really excited about the upcoming Gala, November 7, 2013, and this year we’re going to have The Temptations. Tickets are already selling fast.” The view outside Cyd’s office window has changed drastically over the past 10 years; what was once open fields with cows
Cyd West Senior Vice President, First Community Mortgage and horses on it, now has a Wal-Mart and multiple restaurants and retail stores. “It used to take me only three minutes to get to work, but now with all this traffic, it takes me a good ten minutes,” laughs Cyd. However, “seeing progress” is one thing Cyd takes seriously. “If I see things I’m not happy with or that I think need improving, I’m not one to just
complain about it. I figure out a way to fix it. This is my community, my hometown. I have a long and vested interest in it, not only for myself, but for my family and friends. I want to see it continue to grow and prosper for them, our children, and for our future generations TEXAPPEALMAG.COM
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