Blanca Valencia is the Multicultural Banking Officer at Union Bank & Trust (ubt.com) (Member FDIC)
Tell me a little about your business? – Union Bank & Trust (Member FDIC) is a family-owned, community-focused bank based in Lincoln, Nebraska, that has over 30 branches in Nebraska and Kansas. UBT offers a full range of services, including personal banking, business banking, wealth management, and specialized financial services. We focus on building strong relationships and providing personalized financial solutions, all backed by modern technology like online and mobile banking.
How did you get started in the business? – I began my career with the bank in 2019 as a teller, where I developed a strong foundation in customer service and banking operations. In 2022, I was promoted to Personal Banker, a role in which I honed my skills in financial guidance and client relationship management. In 2023, I transferred to the new Union Bank Place branch, where I took on greater responsibilities and advanced to the roles of Non-Real Estate Lender and Senior Personal Banker in 2024. These positions allowed me to deepen my expertise in lending and provide more comprehensive financial solutions to our clients. In 2025, I was promoted to Multicultural Banking Officer. In this role, I focus on assisting immigrants and multicultural businesses in the Lincoln community by helping them understand the banking system and connecting them with the necessary tools for success. My goal is to empower these communities by providing tailored financial guidance and fostering strong, supportive relationships.
Tell me a little about your family? – Family is a huge part of who I am. I’m married to my husband, John, and together we have a 3-year-old son named Bentley. They are my biggest support system and a daily source of inspiration. Balancing my career and family life has been incredibly rewarding and motivates me to continue growing both personally and professionally.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – On my days off, my favorite thing to do is spend quality time with my family. I love making memories with my husband, John, and our son, Bentley. I also enjoy going to the gym with my husband — it’s a great way for us to stay active together and recharge.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – If I could choose one word to be remembered as, it would be “kind.” I believe kindness can leave a lasting impact, and I hope to be remembered as someone who always treated others with compassion and respect. Kindness has the power to brighten someone’s day, foster meaningful connections, and create a ripple effect that can transform communities. In every interaction, I strive to embody empathy and understanding, ensuring that everyone feels valued and heard. My goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of those around me, one act of kindness at a time.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – One of my favorite quotes is something my parents always taught me: “Never give up, no matter how hard it gets.” Their resilience inspires me every day. This mantra has guided me through many challenges, reminding me to stay determined and persevere even when the going gets tough. My parents’ unwavering strength and positive outlook have shaped my approach to life, encouraging me to face obstacles head-on and find solutions. Their example of resilience and perseverance is a constant source of motivation, and I strive to embody these qualities in everything I do.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so (phone/email/business website)? – Phone: 402.323.1288; email: blanca.valencia@ubt.com; website: www.ubt.com/about/directory/blanca-valencia