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In the rapidly evolving world of banking, financial institutions like Stone Bank often find ourselves in a delicate balancing act between science and art. On the one hand, technology and innovation allow us to provide our customers with fast, easy and secure access to their funds. Conversely, even with the bells and whistles offered by fintech, what customers want most are bankers who are knowledgeable, empathetic problem-solvers.
At Stone Bank, we believe in embracing high-tech solutions while embodying high-touch customer care to address the diverse needs of our communities. It is our responsibility to foster diversity, equity and inclusion within our institution, and our partnership with the Tjuana Byrd Summer Internship Program has been pivotal in that mission.
Stone Bank has partnered with the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas as a sponsor and participating business for the past four years. Since then, we have invited four of the interns from the program to join the bank as full-time employees in roles ranging from retail support to deposit operations and internal audit. In that time, we’ve seen a tremendous “return” on our investment in three key areas.
Building a Pipeline of Future Leaders
Internships are a critical steppingstone for young professionals as they move from academic settings to the corporate world. Through hands-on experience, mentorship and professional development opportunities, we empower participants to realize their full potential. This investment in their growth not only benefits them but also ensures that we have a pipeline of skilled, diverse professionals ready to lead our organization in the future.
Enhancing Business Performance
Research consistently shows that diverse teams outperform their more homogeneous counterparts. By integrating women of color into STEM-related industries such as banking, we enhance our problem-solving capabilities, increase our adaptability and boost overall performance. These women bring a unique set of experiences and viewpoints that challenge the status quo and drive innovation. This dynamic ultimately leads to better decision-making and improved business outcomes.
Promoting a Culture of Mentorship
Participating in this internship program fosters a culture of mentorship within the bank. Our Boulder Bankers guide the next generation of leaders by sharing their knowledge and experience. This exchange is mutually beneficial, as mentors often gain fresh insights and a renewed sense of purpose from the interns. Interactions such as these enrich the culture at Stone Bank and reinforce our commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.
At Stone Bank, we aspire to provide a “Boulder Banking” experience to our customers in Arkansas and across the U.S. Through the Tjuana Byrd Summer Internship Program, we have been able to unlock a world of potential, drive innovation and build a stronger, more inclusive business environment. When businesses join in initiatives that nurture the talent of young women of color, we pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future in STEM, banking and beyond.
