WOMEN TO WATCH

Tricia Curreri

Mortgage Lender & Team Supervisor
Arvest Bank

I serve as vice president, mortgage lender and team supervisor at Arvest Bank, the largest mortgage lending institution in Arkansas. My passions revolve around making a positive impact on the community and those that I serve. Finance, education and equality are congruent themes in my personal and professional life, which drive my day-to-day operations. Lending my expertise to support the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts and creating awareness of The Dan Fredinburg Foundation inspire me to challenge the
status quo and push past standard expectations.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

Most rewarding part of my job:

Helping families structure the best financing options to meet their short and long term goals. Confident and timid buyers alike experience “aha” moments and it is an honor to be a part of that journey.

How I knew this was my passion:

Although always intrigued by law, I pivoted away from law school, joining a large default real estate firm. When the opportunity arose to remove economic barriers and improve the quality of life through home ownership, it was a natural fit.

My role model:

My children in their relentless pursuit of what they desire. They explore and dream with no boundaries, which are attributes that I admire. My husband and I encourage them to be kind, be brave and try new things.

Biggest challenges in my career:

Early in my career, it was difficult to decline people. I quickly learned that providing solutions to credit and budgeting dilemmas was the best way to offer immediate help. Counseling is an integral part of my day.

If I could lunch with any woman, it would be:

Betty White would make a great lunch date! As a pioneer of television, she has shattered expectations throughout her career. Her spirit, quick wit and candor would make for lively conversations.

Advice for my 18-year-old self:

Take the hard road, as contrary as it sounds. I give myself this advice now when I’m faced with a decision that causes me to pause. Developing the discipline to take the extra steps pays off in the long run.

Best career moment so far:

I was recently named Favorite Mortgage Lender in Arkansas, which is pretty cool! It is an honor to have my hard work and dedication recognized, especially in an industry that has gone through vigorous changes over the years.

How I define success:

Success is making a positive impact on those around you. Luckily, impact happens through many different avenues by influencing individuals, institutions and communities. Each action can be the turning point for those you encounter to be a ripple of change.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Neighborhood you live in

Hillcrest

Hometown

Norfork

Last good read

“If You’re Not First, You’re Last” by Grant Cardone

Favorite Food

Cheeseburger

Favorite Lunch Spot

JJ’s Grill

First thing you do at the office each morning

Power hour for scheduling, making calls and new connections

Last splurge

Disney World with family

Hobbies

Travel, read, run

Dream Vacation

Montenegro and Croatia

Favorite Song

“Wait” by Maroon 5

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