Second Location in Portage Now Open
Sturgis Bank has opened a second location in Portage, Michigan. The branch, at 8025 Creekside Drive, is helmed by several bankers with a history of serving customers in the greater Kalamazoo area. Sturgis Bank also operates a loan processing office on West Milham in Portage.
“I am thrilled that we are expanding our footprint and opening another location in Portage, ” said José Santamaria, who heads up the commercial banking services team for both Portage locations as Senior Vice President, Commercial Lender. “Helping business owners realize their dreams, especially those launching a small business, is a primary reason why I am committed to community banking and serving area residents.”
José has over 35 years of experience in banking, real estate, finance, and management. José holds a Master’s of Business Administration in Finance, a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Finance, and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, all from Western Michigan University. He is active in the Kalamazoo community and has served on the Board of Housing Resources, Inc. for over 25 years, currently as Treasurer. He also serves as Board President of Presbyterian Villages - The Village of Sage Grove, is a member of the Portage Rotary Club, and is active with the First Presbyterian Church of Kalamazoo.
Kip Miller has been a commercial relationship manager in Southwest Michigan for more than 23 years, working with clients to achieve their commercial and personal financial goals. Kip earned his Bachelor and Master’s degrees from Western Michigan University. Kip said his desire to bring customized solutions and local decision making to his clients is what motivated him to join Sturgis Bank & Trust: “It is great working for a community bank where things get done locally. Our primary goal is to add value for our customers, our community, and our employees.” Kip has been an avid volunteer and supporter of many Southwest Michigan area organizations and has served in several in leadership roles. He is currently Board President of The Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center and has served The Douglas Community Association; Residential Opportunities, Inc.; The Great Lakes Center for Autism Treatment and Research; Goodwill of Southwestern Michigan; Milwood Little League; and Oakwood Little League Foundation, among others.
Roy Dangel, Vice President, Business Development Specialist, provides Treasury Management services to commercial customers. Roy joined the bank in 2019 and has 30 plus years of experience as a customer service-oriented banking executive. His experience includes treasury management, municipal deposits and financing, commercial and retail credit, SBA lending, and operations. “I feel very enthusiastic about providing the most quality products and services to my clients, many of whom I have worked with for decades,” said Roy. “Working for a community bank that follows our mission ‘let’s grow home’ in every aspect for the communities we serve sets us apart.” Roy is actively involved with Housing Resources Inc-Finance Committee, Portage Rotary, WMU-Bronco Athletic Fund, and Scout for Kalamazoo College Football Program.
Kimberly Nower is leading the retail team as branch manager. Kim is a graduate of the Haworth College of Business at Western Michigan University and has almost ten years’ experience in the retail financial industry. She previously held management roles in sales and customer service for several national brands, including Meijer, OfficeMax, Sears, and Kmart. “I’m excited to serve the community and work with colleagues who are focused on face-to-face service,” said Kim.
Visit www.sturgis.bank for branch hours and services available at the Creekside Drive branch.