As we move through 2025, we are excited to pause and celebrate the incredible team members who make American Riviera Bank special. The Employee WOW Awards highlight staff who consistently go above and beyond, making a real difference in our workplace and community. Recipients are nominated by their peers for their teamwork, leadership, innovation, responsiveness, and reliability, as well as impact on the community through volunteerism. In addition, one honoree is recognized for being a true representative of the Bank’s core values.
Awarded to: Dustin Reese
Role: Senior Client Services Officer
Dustin seems to be everything to everyone, everywhere. He works across multiple branches and supports a wide range of client needs—from branch operations and lending to treasury services and sales. He is a mentor to many and is the rare banker who can lead a sales call or step into a supporting role with equal impact. He assists with sophisticated transactions and account setup, always recognizing the importance of customer service.
Awarded to: Holly Onak
Role: Treasury Services Manager
Holly has quickly become an invaluable part of the American Riviera Bank team. Her efforts to improve efficiency and understanding have advanced our treasury services menu and boosted adoption. She is refining processes, and carefully balancing client impact with risk. Holly is always focused on giving clients the best onboarding experience and empowering clients with the tools they need to make banking easier.
Awarded to: Jason Kaufman
Role: Senior Branch Manager
Jason is a great leader who empowers his team and keeps his door open. He believes in his team and challenges them to be their very best. He helps others step out of their comfort zones and believe in themselves and leads by example, promoting collaboration, accountability, and excellent service. His leadership inspires support and collaboration throughout all departments.
Awarded to: Alicia Tovar
Role: Loan Services Specialist
Alicia is always helpful, answering calls and responding quickly to emails. She is willing to assist with questions about loans, payments, and documentation; no problem is too big or small for her attention! Even on busy days, she responds promptly, asks thoughtful questions, and makes a real difference with her quick replies.
Awarded to: Nicole De La Torre
Role: Senior Personal Banker
Nicole’s reliability is demonstrated by her consistent follow-through and ability to meet deadlines, whether processing transactions or following up on sales leads. She manages a full workload without missing a beat while always providing excellent customer service. Nicole gets the job done and is ready to support her team and customers in any role.
Awarded to: Alex Torres
Role: Credit Assistant Supervisor
Alex is dependable, consistent, and reliable. He stays calm during stressful situations, gets the job done without drama, and always follows through. He teaches and empowers his team, and his approachable, patient demeanor makes him a go-to for support. Alex actively participates in company events and consistently helps with shared responsibilities and team communications. His steady presence and leadership positively influence those around him.
Awarded to: Rechelle Ringer
Role: Product & Marketing Manager
Rechelle's contributions to our Bank's "Outstanding" CRA rating through her volunteer work are noteworthy. She supports equity in education through the Dos Pueblos High School Foundation and leads financial literacy efforts in local schools. Rechelle also volunteers with Living Faith Church and the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara, helping meet essential needs for women, children, and families. Her service makes a lasting impact across our community.
Congratulations to all our WOW Award honorees whose dedication, teamwork, and embodiment of our values continue to shape the culture of American Riviera Bank.
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