“It doesn’t seem possible I’ve worked here 16 years already,” explained Jeni Dorr when asked about her tenure with Grand Rapids State Bank.

Over those 16 years, “times have changed, for sure,” said Jeni.  “It seems as though our customers were ‘trained’ during COVID to do their banking differently.  We don’t see the foot traffic like we used to. We do a lot of transactions with Doc-U-Sign and electronic signatures, and when you consider the online banking, too, our customer base have learned to be comfortable with those systems.”

Jeni’s role as administrative assistant/account services involves “managing the process behind the paperwork,” as she explained it.  Her scope of work includes working with both commercial and consumer loans. On the Account Service side, it includes assisting customers with obtaining products and services the bank offers or responding to inquiries about those services.

“Whether it’s opening a new account, a debit card, a CD, or questions about online banking, our customers know they’ll get an answer at our office,” said Jeni, “and they primarily come here in person.  It’s nice to see their smiling faces.”

The lending team, of which Jeni is a member, has a solid core group that has remained unchanged for the past five years.  She appreciates the relationships she’s built with the team.  “We’ll work together to help our customers achieve their goals. Whether it’s a car loan or purchasing their first home or business, we’re committed to help them from start to finish.”

When asked about her career aspirations, Jeni thought she’d consider a move to a different department within the bank or a different job title.  “Who knows? Time will tell,” she said. “ I really enjoy what I’m doing;  I can see myself working in my position for another 15 years or so.  I know I’m not ready to retire quite yet.”

Jeni and her husband, Alan, are preparing to be empty nesters shortly.

Their daughter, Ali, graduated from St. Olaf College this past summer, and is starting her path in the legal world. Their son, Jace, graduated from Grand Rapids High School this summer and will attend Wadena Technical College in the fall to earn an HVAC certificate, something he expects to accomplish in a year.

“Alan and I will have plenty of time to figure this empty nester thing out,” continued Jeni, “but in the meantime we will enjoy spending time with our families, friends and of course traveling will be involved.”