Raised in Paso Robles, schooled at Cal Poly and currently residing in Atascadero, Lisa Mumford is fantabulous, according to the cool kids. One cool kid in particular, who happens to be just over three years old.
The aptly named Relationship Manager at Pacific Western Bank and recently retired class chair of Leadership SLO Class XXIV is a huge fan of family, friends and community, not to mention gardening, hiking and generally being outdoors.
The first half of Mumford & hubs (do you see what we did there?) recently set down her calculator (we were hoping it would be an abacus), and talked about the stress of drawing under the critical eye of her three year old, her love of Bridgette Jones and what she’s going to do with all her free time now that her commitment to Leadership SLO is fulfilled.
What is your favorite word?
Fantabulous. A mix of fantastic and fabulous. I use it only when speaking with my 3½ year old daughter. She gives me lots of opportunity to use it.
Which fictional character do you most relate to?
Bridgette Jones. Bridgette Jones makes all women feel good about ourselves because we can relate to some extent but none of us are quite that klutzy. When I’m regretting saying or doing something, I think of Bridgette Jones and end up laughing and feeling better about myself.
Which talent would you most like to have?
A musical one. I have a severe lack of musical and artistic talent. I was startled the other day when my daughter drew a stick figure almost as well as I can. I had to google a picture of a shark when she asked me to draw one for her. It was nerve racking having her watch me sketch a shark.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
A master chef. I enjoy good food and preparing it for others. I am in my element when hosting a party, and I enjoy hearing the laughter of friends and family around the dinner table. I’ve come to believe that relationships should be one of the most valued of all blessings and that they’re best nurtured around the dinner table.
Where would you rather be right now?
Ireland. I don’t typically wish to return to places I’ve visited, but I would return to Ireland where it truly looks like the post cards and where the people are incredibly gracious and friendly. The Irish must have known my maiden name is Sullivan and that I’m about half Irish.
Having just wrapped up your term as class chair of Leadership SLO Class XXIV, what do you plan on doing with your free Fridays?
If I didn’t have to work I would be gardening or hiking with my daughter or going to a concert with my husband. I enjoy being outdoors and have great appreciation for the natural beauty we are surrounded with here. Now as far as my boss knows, I still need to be out the 2nd Friday of each month for LSLO.
What’s do you love most about working at a community bank?
The relationships built over time with customers, the support from management for things like Rotary and Leadership SLO and community activities, and the friendships formed with co-workers and other local bankers. I’ve been “banking” some customers for 15 years. My sister thinks I know everyone in SLO.