Molly Bragg, Compliance Specialist for Border Bank was selected as the recipient of the 2021 Cultivate Service Award. Abi Voorhees, AVP, Loan Operations Manager for Border Bank, was selected as the recipient of the 2021 Cultivate Innovation Award. Bragg and Voorhees were recognized at an all staff meeting this week for their exceptional service and innovation provided to teammates and customers.

Border Bank's 2021 Cultivate Service Award Winner - Molly Bragg

“Border Bank’s Cultivate Awards program is a way to recognize those team members who provide exceptional experiences for their customers, coworkers and communities. It is our team members who bring our culture of service to life each day and we are thrilled to honor those who make Border Bank a great place to work and do business with this coveted award,” said Steph Melgaard, Retail Banking Director.

“Molly is the ultimate team player, and truly epitomizes the “we versus me” mentality. She’s always willing to lend a helping hand, volunteer when help is needed, and goes about it with a positive and upbeat attitude. Congratulations on this award Molly, well deserved,” said Derek Olson, International Falls Bank President.

“Everything that Molly does has Border Bank’s best interest at heart. Whether it’s putting together baskets for the many events we participate in to making sure we stay compliant and do what’s best for our customers, it’s always done with such professionalism. Congratulations to Molly on this well-deserved recognition,” said Kris Lassila, Business Officer.

“I strive to be of service to our branch and to help create an environment filled with a sense of unity and kindness. This past year this has evolved into full staff involvement in volunteer efforts throughout our community. It has been a joy to be part of this shift and I’m honored to be the recipient of the 2021 Border Bank Cultivate Service Award,” said Molly Bragg.

 

Border Bank's 2021 Cultivate Innovation Award Winner - Abi Voorhees

“Border Bank’s Cultivate Awards program is a way to recognize those team members who embrace and drive innovation as we strive to best serve our customers and communities now and in the future. It is our team members who bring new ideas to life each day for the betterment of our teams and customers and we are thrilled to honor those who make Border Bank a great place to work with this coveted award,” said Steph Melgaard, Retail Banking Director.

“Abi has a can-do attitude, is solution driven, and accomplishes all challenges that come her way, far exceeding expectations. I couldn’t be more proud of all that Abi has achieved, and truly appreciate all her contributions to Border Bank,” said Joe Ulwelling, Chief Lending Officer.

“Cultivate and innovate describe what Abi does every day at Border Bank because she is always looking for solutions and improvements. I greatly appreciate Abi’s excitement and enthusiasm to tackle new and challenging projects. Congratulations to Abi on this well-earned honor,” said Shane Kittelson, SVP, Operations Director.

“I’m thankful to work for a company that has invested in my education and growth throughout my career, and grateful to have a wonderful team that supports me. I love that Border Bank focuses on innovation and growth, which provides new learning opportunities all the time. I’m honored and excited to receive this award,” said Abi Voorhees.

To recognize and celebrate their contributions to Border Bank, Bragg and Voorhees were each presented a crystal trophy and a $1,200 gift card to be used to fund an experience or adventure for themselves and their families. 

Border Bank was established in 1935 and has nine branches located in Minnesota: Coon Rapids, Greenbush, Thief River Falls, Middle River, Badger, Roseau, Baudette, International Falls and Clearbrook. Border Bank also has a branch in Fargo, North Dakota, with a second Fargo branch opening later in March. Border Bank’s mantra is Customer First – Community Focused, which is the cornerstone of the Cultivate Awards Program.