How would you describe yourself and your connection to Yazoo?
I'm just a Southern girl who loves her city, Yazoo City. I was born on Wolf Lake and raised in Shady Lane. I consider myself a philanthropist for Yazoo because this is where I grew up, and Yazoo has produced some extraordinary people.
I am a proud graduate of Yazoo City High School, Class of 1983. I later attended Jackson State University. In 1997, I graduated from the Ole Miss School of Banking, and I was also proud to be a member of the very first Leadership Yazoo class. These experiences helped shape my commitment to my community and my career, and they strengthened my belief in the potential of Yazoo and its people.
What makes Yazoo special to you?
Yazoo once had great schools and passionate teachers with strong beliefs. We thrived on social connections filled with support and shared purpose, creating unforgettable lifetime experiences. It is my prayer that we can regain and restore that path for our community. We must come together and rebuild our village. I believe it is critical that we create a strong, restorative social environment for us to survive and thrive. Yazoo is going to bounce back; I truly believe that.
What professional advice would you offer others?
I have been employed at the Bank of Yazoo since 1989, 37 years to be exact. I love my job, which is one reason my tenure has been so long. I try to encourage my coworkers to stay focused, do their jobs well, and enjoy life. Be happy! Happy employees are always more productive and engaged. Happiness matters no matter where you are.
What makes the Bank of Yazoo family unique?
The Bank of Yazoo has always been about teamwork. Over the years we have faced bumps, struggles, and many challenges, but as a team we remained resilient. We cleaned our wounds and got back up again. Bank of Yazoo has always valued our customers and our city. We focus on quality customer service, skills, and motivation. All of this is orchestrated through teamwork.
Teamwork is the key to our longevity of 150 years. A Milestone!
Management throughout the years has been exceptional. Our Board of Directors has made great leadership decisions. Griffin Norquist Jr., Van Ray, Bob Bailey, Phil Williams, Jamey Carter, and Ben Aldridge, to name a few. This group has always had the employees’ best interests at heart, and I personally want to thank them because through my ups and downs they have always been right there.
My expectations of the Bank of Yazoo were shaped 37 years ago when Mr. Bailey hired me. I knew this was the place for me. This bank has become my second home, the place where I spend so much of my time. I was once just "Hattie" around the bank, but now I'm "Ms. Hattie." In other words, time has passed and experience has nourished me. I love Bank of Yazoo because we are family, and family means a lot. I plan to ride it out, savor the moments, and simply be happy.
We deal with money transactions every day, but the truth of the matter is this: Love is the greatest transaction. I love God, I love my family and friends, I love the Bank of Yazoo, and I love Yazoo City.
