“You are never too old to start something new. Take your time, find what makes you happy, and make the most of every opportunity.”
Kimberly (Wolf) Plummer — From Sauk Student to Community Bank Executive
Sauk Valley Community College provides students with the flexibility to balance education, work, and family while building a foundation for future success. For Kim, Sauk was the perfect place to begin her educational journey. Today, she serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Scottsdale Community Bank in Arizona and continues to share her knowledge as an accounting instructor.
What made you choose to attend Sauk Valley Community College?
I chose Sauk because I could attend classes part-time while working full-time.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the college?
I enjoyed taking night classes. The environment was more relaxed, and the professors understood the challenges of balancing school with work and other responsibilities. Many of them had full-time jobs themselves, so they understood what students were experiencing.
What was your biggest takeaway from your time at Sauk?
If you are not ready to move away to attend college, Sauk is a great place to start your educational journey and earn a college degree.
How did your experience at Sauk prepare you for your career and future goals?
Working full-time while attending school taught me the importance of hard work and time management. I learned how to balance work, school, and family responsibilities. Employers value individuals who work hard and take initiative to continue learning and advancing themselves.
What path did you take after graduating from Sauk?
After graduating from Newman Central Catholic High School in 2000, I began working full-time as a bank teller. I earned my Associate in Science degree from Sauk in 2005 before transferring to the University of Phoenix Online, where I earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Accountancy. I also became a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
I worked in public accounting for many years before transitioning to the financial institution sector and pursuing a career in bank accounting. Today, I serve as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Scottsdale Community Bank in Arizona.
In addition to my work in banking, I previously taught accounting as an adjunct instructor at Sauk Valley Community College. I now teach online at Monroe University in New York.
What did you enjoy most about being part of the Sauk community?
I enjoyed the smaller campus environment. It was easier to connect with professors and reach out to them when I needed help.
What would you tell someone who is considering attending Sauk Valley Community College?
Sauk is a great place to start your college education, save money on tuition, and complete your general education requirements before transferring to another institution. You can also pursue a career in the trades. You are never too old to start something new!
Complete this sentence: “Attending Sauk Valley Community College was…”
A great place to start.
What does Sauk Valley Community College mean to you in one word?
Community.
What advice would you give to current students?
Take your time choosing a career path. You have your whole life ahead of you, so do what makes you happy.
