Thrive as a professional
i
Meet
cey Alex toLAshaley
mmunit y d • Marrie in the business co gram pro d • Engage d in the LFMWF te a ip c ti r • Pa
LIVING IN FARGO-MOORHEAD
It’s funny looking back, because I didn’t think I’d stay in this area long after college. My father joined the Navy shortly after I was born, which meant we moved up and down the East Coast until I was 13 years old due to his promotions. We ended up moving to South Dakota, where I attended high school and lived until I moved to Fargo for college in 2011.
48
When I graduated from North Dakota State University (NDSU), I told my supervisor I’d commit to staying another year or so to build my resume before looking to move back out east. That conversation was almost eight years ago, and I haven’t looked back once. I always thought I’d move back east, but professional opportunities kept presenting themselves here, and when I paused to look around, this community just had so much to offer. My professional journey with Gate City Bank began 10 years ago, when I was a student at NDSU. I’ve been lucky to have had amazing supervisors who have identified my potential, given me Metro Profile 2023-2024
opportunities to prove myself and succeed, and been committed to my professional development through continued educational opportunities, leadership programs and mentoring. For example, Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo (LFMWF) is a great program that allows area professionals to sharpen their leadership skills and develop positive business relationships. The unique experience LFMWF offers assisted me in building personal and business connections, as well as gaining deeper exposure to our community. To the person questioning if they can build a career in this area, you can! Just don’t try to do it alone. We do many things in life independently, but building a career doesn’t have to be one of them. I attribute much of my professional success to others. Even though I did the work, my mentors provided the needed motivation and support.
LEADERSHIP FMWF
T his 10 - mont h leader s hip program left an impression on me that will last a lifetime. I built 39 longlasting relationships with whom I regularly connect with for support, collaboration and motivation. LFMWF allows area professionals to sharpen their leadership skills. I appreciate the unique experience that the leadership program offered me.