of three says she was able to “work freely” without worrying about their care. It was this combination of a supportive home and workplace that made her realize that money may be green, but it certainly isn’t greener somewhere else. “I appreciate all the assistance I’ve received (from my supervisors and colleagues) because without them, I wouldn’t have survived,” says Furuhashi. “You have to help one another. I’m grateful.” And not retiring any time soon. “Everyone has retired. I’m the only one left and not planning to leave,” she laughs. Sheri Walling First Vice President and Bank Operations Administrator, Irvine When it comes to her career, Sheri Walling jokes that she’s “for longevity.” But it’s not merely a jest, it’s the truth. This April, Walling will mark her 46th year with CB&T. “I’ve always
everyone that, ‘I got it. I know how to do this part!’” she laughs. And although one day she might retire, she’s not planning on it anytime soon. “What would I even do? I enjoy what I do. I love the group I work with, and I love my manager. It would be nice to take a nap, but what am I going to do? Take a nap for the rest of my life?” she laughs. It’s doubtful, especially with her impressive run thus far. Lupe Fernandez Vice President and Branch Service
Manager, Encino Lupe Fernandez has celebrated several milestones in her life. But not in her “wildest dreams” did she believe one would include celebrating 46 years at CB&T. Starting her
wanted to stay in banking,” she says. “Why go somewhere else? The grass isn’t always greener, right?” Walling says her career track was initiated by her parents who told her to “go
career in the late 1970s, Fernandez has held several positions: bookkeeper, new accounts representative and customer service manager. “I think the reason I’ve worked for the bank this long is because I really enjoy it. Time just flies,” she says. Although life throws us challenges, especially in the workplace, Fernandez says the key is to remain positive. “The best way to succeed is to have a good attitude, educate yourself and not complain so much about the work—just do it. It takes longer to complain than to finish the work,” she advises. Fernandez’s colleagues have taken note of her perseverance. On a LinkedIn post commemorating her anniversary, one colleague said, “You have set an exemplary standard for all of us with your work ethic and your dedication. Thank you for everything you have done for CB&T all these years.” Although Fernandez doesn’t plan to retire this year, she does see it on the horizon. She hopes to continue traveling, already sporting passport stamps to 15 different countries. “I’ll travel with my husband because my daughter has to work. Now it’s my turn,” she laughs.
to college or get a job.” Walling took the latter and, because of her willingness to learn new tasks and her openness to change, she had career advancements early on. She’s also a fan of technology. “Just keep your mind open to new opportunities, and you can make a change,” she encourages others of all generations. Walling says supportive leadership also has played a key role in her long tenure. “It’s been a great company to work for all along the way. Each bank I’ve worked for collectively, there’s been a lot of opportunity for people to be promoted from within.” Her many years working in the field with and without technology has also proved to be beneficial on certain occasions. “Whenever we go offline, I tell
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