Words by Anna Lee Vaughn | Images by Ryan McGill
Debbie Daniel recently celebrated 45 years with Synovus Bank. Debbie began her employment with Synovus, then First National Bank of Jasper, in 1979 after completing a stenographer course at Walker State Technical College, now Bevill State.
She started as a receptionist and learned tasks like loan processing, paper titles, and insurance handling. After ten years, Debbie was asked by former CEO John Oliver to transfer to the commercial department, where she has spent the last thirty-five years assisting the bank’s CEOs. She credits much of her mentorship to John Oliver and Gwaltney McCollum, both of whom she describes as respectable, ethical, kind, and giving.
Over the years, Debbie has participated in several changes, including the transition of the bank from First National Bank of Jasper to First Bank of Jasper and, ultimately, Synovus. She has seen many employees, departments, and positions come and go as the bank downsized and condensed its operations from all three floors of the downtown Jasper building to one floor.
“I have seen a lot of change over the last forty-five years. When I started in 1979, we didn’t have computers. It was all typewriters and carbon paper, things like that. And then we went to the word processors. And then in ‘82, I remember that we started to get computers,” recalls Debbie. “I’ve seen a lot of people come and go, and we remain friends. I’ve worked under many respectable CEOs who allowed me to do my work and enjoy it. That is the reason I have stayed for 45 years.”
Aside from those who have made her time at Synovus fulfilling, Debbie is proud to have contributed to Synovus’s positive and professional work environment. In 2006, she received the opportunity to attend the Alabama Banking School. With twenty-nine years of banking experience to her merit, she graduated in 2008 as valedictorian of her 52-person class. “Because of the 29 years of experience I had, I’m proud that I was able to represent the bank in a good way,” says Debbie.
As she reflects on her 45 years with Synovus, Debbie notes the joy she has experienced while learning her trade, building relationships, and serving the community. Debbie plans to retire in March of next year and looks forward to completing home projects on her to-do list, spending time with her family, and traveling.
“Each position I have had over the years has allowed me to learn to face challenges, not just in the workforce, but in life. I have always loved my job and the people I work with because I was pushed to become a better person,” says Debbie. “The thought of leaving is bittersweet, but I’m excited to see what the next chapter holds.” WL
