Shan Haugabrook
Professional Development Coordinator
Georgia Bankers Association
Q: As GBA members meet you or talk to you for the first time, what can they expect from you?
GBA members can expect to be greeted with a gracious smile and a commitment to the growth of the association and building of the banking community – not just the first time, but every time.
Q: Who is someone that has influenced your chosen career path?
Both my father and mother have played very influential roles in my chosen career path. I have always been intrigued by their excitement and willingness in serving others within our family, the community and professional roles. I would never hear my parents complain about anything. My father told me “you lead by serving others.” This would attest to my servant leadership approach in all that I do, both personally and professionally. It brings my heart great joy to use my gifts and talents to help someone else succeed.
Q: What is your biggest achievement to date – personal or professional?
My recent personal achievements are drinking more water, incorporating more healthy food choices and committing to being active for 30 to 45 minutes daily. Self-care is extremely important. In order to take care of my family and others, I have to take care of myself first.
Q: Before working at GBA, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
At some time or another we’ve all had a nurse provide personal care to ourselves or a loved one. My previous position with the Georgia Nurses Association afforded me the opportunity to truly understand what a nurse does, the importance of the level of care that is provided, the educational component that is required to remain competent in providing such a high level of care while having the skills to do so. Now at GBA, I am looking forward to understanding the banking industry as a whole, the many roles of a banker and how I can help our member bankers in providing the educational resources to be successful in their roles.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
Although I am an owner of an Akita, a very large and powerful dog breed, I have been afraid of dogs all my life until last year. Sometimes I still cannot believe that I have a dog!