Since 1875, The First National Bank in Trinidad has been a part of the Trinidad community, and many dedicated employees have come and gone over the years. Under current ownership, nine employees have been with the Bank for over 10 years, eight employees have been with the bank for 20 or more years, and nine have careers spanning 30 or more years – this is a testimony to management and the pleasant work environment its employees and customers enjoy.

Because of the level of dedication from so many employees, the Bank makes an effort to recognize those who achieve banner anniversaries during their tenure with the institution. Employees who recently celebrated a milestone anniversary were Doris Zamora and Susan Gutierrez.

Doris Zamora was born in Raton, New Mexico, but she has lived all of her life in Trinidad. She began her career in the bookkeeping department at First National Bank in July 1973 as a young woman, fresh out of high school. She also worked for a while in the proof department before moving back to bookkeeping where she was promoted to head bookkeeper in 1984. In February 1996 she was promoted to Assistant Vice President, a title she holds today along with Head Bookkeeper. Doris says, “Time passes quickly; it doesn’t seem like it’s been 50 years. First National has been a good place to work.” Her husband, Ron, owned and operated Zamora Towing for 31 years.   Together they have five children, Ronald Jr., Crystal, Melinda, Mindy, and Glenna, and sixteen grandchildren.

Susan (Susie) Gutierrez started her career at First National Bank on June 7, 1993 after working as a teacher at Grace Christian Center since its inception in 1985, where she also served as a board member and school secretary. During the past 30 years at First National, she has worked in many different departments. She started in bookkeeping before working as a teller, then moved on to new accounts followed by accounts payable. As a supervisor in the loan processing department, she was promoted to Assistant Vice President in February 2015. She now serves as the Bank’s telephone receptionist. Susie says, "These 30 years at First National have been rewarding as well as challenging--it's a great place to work and with wonderful people!"  Susie has been married to her high school sweetheart Kevin for 47 years.  They have daughters Christian and Corey, son Justin, daughter-in-law Shannon, granddaughters Taylor, Nicole, and Elissya, and grandson Paul.   Kevin and Susie have been active members of Faith Christian Fellowship Church for 32 years.

Doris and Susan were recognized for their years of dedication and service at a luncheon recently held in their honor where they received gifts in appreciation of their years of service.  First National has stood the test of time through generations of change, largely due to its dedicated employees, whose goal is being the best at serving the community.

Photos courtesy Steve Wharton Photography.

Doris Zamora

Susan Gutierrez