Kory Cantin
27 | AVP — Commercial and Municipal Lender, Union Bank
Residence: Caledonia
Career Highlights: I have been very fortunate in my career to advance to where I am. To achieve becoming a commercial lender at a young age and then be able to grow in that area is extremely gratifying. Additionally, completing the New England School of Financial Studies was a highlight. The two-year program is put on by the Banking Associations of the New England States and held at Babson College in Massachusetts. Its in-depth exploration of banking really expanded my view of the industry and my part in my organization’s overall success. Working for an organization that has supported my growth and guided me from the start hasn’t just been a pleasure, but a highlight of my early career.
Community Involvement: Bettering my community has always been a guiding principle in my life. I was extremely lucky to be elected in my mid-twenties to represent my hometown of Lunenburg on a regional school board and serve in that role for two a half years. Then, coinciding with a move to Lyndon, community involvement in the greater Kingdom came easily. I actively volunteer with Discover St J and joined its economic development committee. I joined and was a founding member of Rotary – Kingdom Impact Club. I became a trustee of the NEK Chamber of Commerce. I quickly feel into leadership roles in these organizations, and it is an absolute pleasure to share in their success. I also jump at any opportunity to volunteer at bank sponsored events like scooping ice cream at community parades, etc. Additionally, in a more professional capacity, I am involved with the Vermont RMA Emerging Leaders’ group.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont: Vermont, specifically the Kingdom, is and always has been home. I’m a strong proponent of putting in the work to make the place you live the place you want to be.
Favorite part of your job: The favorite part of my job is working with and seeing my customers succeed. It always fills me with pride when I read a positive story about them, drive past their successful business, or hear from them about their endeavors.
Most inspiring mentor and why: I am so lucky to have had so many people put the time and effort into helping me get where I am today. From Tim Ross, to Rhonda Bennett, to Jonathan Gould and many, many more. Banking is a team sport, and I have the best set of coaches
What would most people be surprised to learn about you: I grew up on a fruit and vegetable farm.
What three words best describe you: Three words that best describe me are pragmatic, candid, and reliable.
Favorite Vermont escape: I grew up in Essex County, specifically Lunenburg, and I always find it very therapeutic to drive up and down the county along rte. 2 and 102. I make it a point to do it a couple times a year to reflect.
Favorite Vermont season: My favorite Vermont season is Fall.
Favorite downtime activity: Hiking the mountains around Willoughby is my go-to. It’s always nice to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.
Favorite Social Media and why: I’m not a huge user of social media but I guess I would have to say Facebook, because it’s the only one I have.
If you had unlimited access to funds, which cause(s) would you support: I would support local, impactful, non-profits and organizations like Umbrella, Catamount Arts, NEK Cancer Action Network and so many more.
Where do you see yourself professionally in the next 5-10 years: Still in banking, continuing to contribute to my organization and making a positive impact.
Drawing on your experiences, what advice would you give to someone looking to get involved in community service: Just go for it! These organizations are full of people with a shared passion and are always grateful for new ideas and new folks to help out!