Whitlow, who has worked at OlyFed for 38 years, is a leader in the community having served on a number of professional association boards and committees supporting the building and real estate industries. Most recently, Whitlow was Chair of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee with TCRA and she regularly helps coordinate continuing education opportunities for realtors.

“When it comes to construction and home loans, Barbara is the local expert, who has helped thousands of area residents become homeowners,” said Lori Drummond, OlyFed President & CEO.

“Barbara goes above and beyond to care for our customers and community and over the past several years she’s been instrumental in mentoring our entire loan team and in building meaningful and collaborative projects and relationships with our professional partners.”

In addition to the Partner of the Year Award, our Sr. Loan Officer, Melissa Kirkeby was also nominated for TCRA’s Affiliate of the Year Award.

Melissa is another long-time OlyFed employee who is very involved in volunteering with the real estate professional community to support the development of the profession and to create more opportunities for families to own a home. Kirkeby has served in a number of volunteer leadership positions with South Sound YMCA, American Cancer Society and with her children’s youth sports activities.

“This recognition of Barbara, Melissa and OlyFed is a testament to our entire Loan Department team, who works tirelessly to provide the highest-quality customer service possible to ensure the home buying and ownership experience is a fulfilling and meaningful one,” Drummond said. “We are so grateful to have such a talented, thoughtful and caring loan team here at OlyFed!”