Women’s History Month with Adria Daniels: Post-Closing Manager at Amplify CU

We are celebrating Women’s History Month! We asked women across our organization to reflect on their careers, accomplishments, and what Women’s History Month means to them. Throughout March, we’ll be highlighting their answers on our blog and social media channels.

Adria Daniels has been with Amplify for five years, with fifteen years’ worth of experience in the mortgage and title industry. Because she values community and connection, she has made post-closing her career focus.

Adria’s work ethic and “get it done” attitude are cornerstones of her professional experience. She is an invaluable part of Amplify’s Real Estate team, with a reputation for being proactive, dependable, and analytical. When she’s not working, she loves spending time with family, continuing her education, and volunteering in her community.

We asked her some questions surrounding her career, her experience at Amplify, and her thoughts on Women’s History Month. The following are her responses to these questions.

Why did you choose your profession?

My mother is in the mortgage industry. I was initially voluntold to help her post-close files. The more I worked with my mother, and I was able to see her interactions with clients which inspired me to head down the same track.

What do you love most about what you do?

I love being part of helping members get into a house. The homebuying process is confusing and stressful. So being able to help a member get the keys to their home will be a lasting memory and I want it to be a good memory.

What made you choose Amplify Credit Union?

I have worked at a larger bank before and then switched to a community bank, which then led to Amplify being my first credit union. I chose Amplify because I wanted a job where I could have a larger impact.

“I chose Amplify because I wanted a job where I could have a larger impact.”

I did work at larger banks before, but I didn’t feel that community connection. I got invited to visit Amplify and I had the chance to meet everyone and saw how friendly everyone was. It’s been great to see and help the company grow, and know that I had a part in that growth.

Tell us about a professional success here at Amplify that you’re proud of.

Inspiring others! That’s truly the best part. Being able to inspire entry-level positions and teaching everyone about different positions. Being in a manager role helps others grow.

What do you think is the key for success in a role like yours?

Being adaptable is key to success. And having someone there for you. I have learned so much from Kristin Keller (SVP of Real Estate Lending) and Ali Hedger. When I first arrived at Amplify, I thought I knew everything about my job—but that changed, and I was able to and continue to learn more.

Tell us about a woman you look up to and why. Do you have a mentor?

My mom has always been the person to inspire me the most. I see her passion for work and her ability to solve problems, while keeping clients satisfied. I would also have to say Kristin Keller was my mentor—she just gets you.

What do you wish you could tell your younger self?

You must be prepared for the unexpected. It’s OK if things don’t go according to plan.

Any advice to young women who want to succeed in your field, industry, or just in general?

Just go for it and put your foot in the door. Don’t be afraid of challenges and don’t settle for the norm.

“Just go for it and put your foot in the door.”

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?

My first day as a post-closer, I was in training and papers were all over the place. It seemed chaotic and one of my peers must’ve sensed my panic. She turned to me and gave me golden advice that I pass down to everyone on my team. The advice that sticks with me to this day: take one file at a time – don’t get overwhelmed. No matter how big the pile of papers is in front of you – it will go down if you take it step-by-step.

How are you breaking barriers faced by women in your field?

I would have to say that my field is mostly female dominated. I do feel like I am breaking barriers by being an African American manager. But for women as a whole—I work to inspire women to see the bigger picture. I was a STEM student in college and my mentor made me think bigger. Some of the things she would ask me is: Instead of being a nurse why not be a doctor? Why settle for pharmacy tech when you can be a pharmacist? Sometimes it takes someone to tell you in order for you to realize your true potential.

What does Women’s History Month mean to you?

Women’s History Month is an opportunity for successful women to be showcased and inspire young ladies to reach any goals they put out there. We all come from different backgrounds so showing young ladies with similar backgrounds that success is feasible will help give them the courage to take a risk and explore. This is also an opportunity for successful women to learn more about their peers and how they were able to reach their goals.

Supporting Our Team

Whether you’re starting your career or an established professional, we all have something valuable to learn from every woman at Amplify. Join us over the next few weeks as we continue to highlight more of our team members. We invite you to listen, share, and support these amazing women.

Curious about a career with Amplify? Head over to our Careers page and apply today!