Age: 30
Community Relations Director, Community First Credit Union
Care about what you do, advises Morgan Teal.
“I’ve watched people grind away at things they hated, and it just isn’t much fun,” says Teal, who recently joined Community First Credit Union from CoVantage Credit Union. “Life is too short to give your best effort to something that doesn’t move the needle for you personally.”
Teal says she’s grown into her community relations work because of her genuine care and “commitment to showing up.” When she got her first break, she says, she didn’t have a formal nonprofit background, but her work ethic and community care has helped her climb the ladder she wants to be on.
And that, she says, “can open doors a resume alone can’t.”
Proudest professional accomplishment: I am often one of the youngest people at the table, and I’m frequently reminded of it — but it’s something I’ve grown to be incredibly proud of. I’ve been earning a paycheck since I was 12 years old, so while I might be young, I’ve been putting in the work for a long time. I’m proud that my hustle and heart are paying off and that I’ve earned my place in those rooms by staying true to my work ethic.
Hidden talent: I’m a pretty darn good bartender. I was trained by some of the best in Fremont — if you know, you know. I’m fast, but my real skill is having a long-term memory for what someone drinks, even if it’s been years since I last served them. Now, if I could just get better at remembering their names, I’d be unstoppable!
Current listening material: Right now, I listen to “Could Have Been Me” by The Struts almost every morning on my way to work. It sets the tone for a positive day and reminds me to keep my commitments — especially the ones I’ve made to myself.
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