Mother and daughter: Renilda Howard and Jennifer Lawton Traveling and adventure In leading her department, Jennifer tries to instill in her employees a strong business sense and a passion for the industry. If all goes to plan, 15 years down the road, she would like to retire and know that there is a strong group coming behind her to take over. “I feel we’ve done a really good job in building our compliance program. I’m very proud of the people I work with and the way they step up to get things done,” Jennifer said. “We have a lot of people to lean on, and we all work well together.” There are a few pieces of advice that she shares with these employees: 1. Do not be afraid to make mistakes. We are all going to make them, and all you can do is learn from them, learn how to fix them and try not to make them again. 2. Do not expect your mentor or someone you know to show you everything. You must have your own curiosity. I can lead you to the water, but you are the one that has to drink. So, you need to take the initiative and learn all that you can. 3. Take responsibility for your actions. I think there’s a lot to be respected when somebody can stand up and say, “I messed up, I’m sorry. Here’s what I’m going to do to fix it.” Being accountable is so important. After her career was well established, Jennifer decided to go back to college and earn her degree. She earned her associate in accounting from Southern New Hampshire University, has received her CRCM, and has attended The Missouri School of Bank Management and the Graduate School of Banking. When asked about membership in MIBA, Jennifer said that the bank has been a member for as long as she has worked there and well before that. “I think MIBA is a great organization for helping banks, especially when it comes to advocating for the industry at the state level and in Washington, D.C.,” Jennifer stated. “I made a trip to Washington, D.C., with another banking organization this past October. It was very interesting to see the ins and outs of how things work there. I realized just how important advocacy is.” Jennifer is happy to share her claim to fame: Her grandpa Everett Mantle and Mickey Mantle were cousins. Mickey is known for being one of the best players in the history of baseball. Peoples Savings Bank staff from left to right: Amanda Korman, Connie Lauer, Toni Weaver, Jennifer Lawton, Jenna Schaefer, Larissa Lensing and Marissa West 20 | The Show-Me Banker Magazine
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