Sarah Henselman | Oregon Pacific Bank

Sarah Henselman | Credit Analyst/Commercial Loan Assistant

Sarah HenselmanSarah Henselman joined Oregon Pacific Bank in December 2019 after working for about 15 years at larger financial institutions. She says there’s a big difference in the way things get done at big banks as opposed to community banks like OPB.

If a customer has a problem at big banks, some might find it hard to track down someone who can help. But here at OPB, we pride ourselves at being accessible and responding quickly to resolve any issues, no matter how large or small.

“We can take ownership and get them taken care of right away,” Sarah says. “We’re working to earn this relationship.”

Sarah’s time in Seattle included a variety of positions, including serving as a branch manager. She now does “a little bit of everything” at our Medford branch, where she is a Credit Analyst/Commercial Loan Assistant. She also enjoys working with clients and getting to know the broader Medford business community.

She and her husband moved to Medford because he’s from the area and they thought of it as an ideal place to raise a family. Her parents have since moved to be closer to them. She grew up in a small town in eastern Washington and she says Medford is the perfect mix — not too big, not too small.

“Medford is a nice combination,” she says. “You still feel like you can go out to restaurants and see shows, but you’re also really close to the outdoors.”

Her family likes to get out and enjoy the scenery and do things like taking a boat trip on the Rogue River.

Sarah has enjoyed learning about the Medford area and looks forward to getting more involved in the community. She’s joined in volunteer work, including helping out the Salvation Army during the holidays and helping to sort toys and provide basic necessities for local families.

She says helping the community is one of the things she likes most about her job. During the pandemic, the branch assisted local businesses in securing federal Paycheck Protection Loans, which helped many local businesses stay afloat during an uncertain time. The community has also come together in facing challenges following the aftermath of devastating fires that struck the area in the fall of 2020.

A community bank plays a big role in inspiring confidence by being there when customers need them, Sarah says. “We feel like we’re helping to provide a feeling of stability during ups and downs.”

To find out how we can help you and your nonprofit or business succeed, give us a call at 541-858-0192.