Karlene Gordon, CDE
SVP, Diversity and Inclusion Officer
Ameris Bank, Duluth, GA
Member, GBA Women in Banking Committee
Published July 24, 2025
Q: What was your first job, and is there a lesson you learned there that you still use today?
A: My first job was actually in banking. I participated in a co-op program during high school in New York City, where we alternated between full-time school one week and full-time work the next. I interned at Morgan Guarantee, now known as J.P. Morgan, at their office on 15 Broad Street—right across from the New York Stock Exchange. It was one of their original buildings, and I was just a teenager surrounded by seasoned professionals.
One of the most important lessons I learned came from an incident involving a much older colleague. He said something inappropriate that upset me, and I wasn’t sure if I should speak up. But I did. I reported what happened, and to my surprise, leadership took it very seriously. The individual had to apologize, and several VPs checked in with me afterward. That experience taught me the power of speaking up, even when you're unsure. You never know who might benefit from your courage or what might be happening behind the scenes. I was even offered a full-time position, but I was heading off to college. That early experience shaped my ability to advocate for myself and others.
Q: What was the most useful piece of advice you received from a mentor?
A: Early in my career, I was fortunate to have a mentor who previously worked at Towers Perrin, now known as Towers Watson—a prominent HR and management consulting firm in New York City. She stood out to me not just for her expertise, but for how she treated people. Every single morning, she made it a point to greet everyone in the office and genuinely ask how they were doing. It wasn’t performative—it was just who she was. No one else in leadership did that.
She taught me that leadership isn’t just about strategy or deliverables; it’s about presence and connection. I carry that lesson with me today. Whether it's a colleague, a security guard or a visitor, I make it a point to check in and acknowledge every person I encounter. That intentional kindness stays with people. Maya Angelou has a notable quote: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Q: Tell us about one experience that exemplifies your role as a banker.
A: One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had recently was when we rolled out the Bank On certified account at Ameris Bank in 2023. We started with a soft launch at select locations in South Georgia to test the process before expanding bankwide.
A customer came into one of those branches after being turned away from multiple banks because they couldn’t pass ChexSystems and weren’t eligible for a traditional account. But because of our Bank On offering, we were able to take a second look. They qualified and opened an account.
The customer left us a heartfelt Google review about how much it meant to finally access basic financial tools—things many of us take for granted like direct deposit and not having to go to check cashing that charges you for access to your money. That moment reinforced how powerful it is to give people a second chance. It also reminded our bankers that they’re not just opening accounts—they’re opening doors. Helping someone take control of their financial future builds stronger communities.
As bankers, I’d love to see us do more to provide more opportunities to vulnerable communities to be invited into the banking system. I hope more institutions consider offering Bank On certified accounts. So many people in underserved communities live in banking deserts and lack access to even the most basic financial tools. Even if it means putting some “training wheels” on the process to protect the bank, it’s worth it. Giving people that access can change lives—and it starts with creating more opportunities.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: People are often surprised to learn that I’m a bit of a thrill seeker. I’ve gone skydiving in Greece, parasailed in Belize and ziplined through forests in Costa Rica, Mexico and more. I even did “Dinner in the Sky” in Athens—suspended 50 to 60 meters in the air by a crane, enjoying a full meal!
I made a promise to myself to live boldly and never let fear stop me. I actually hate flying, but I’ll never let that keep me from traveling. If I’m afraid of something, I usually lean into it even more. Life’s too short not to chase adventure.
Q: First tap/click of the day?
A: Honestly, I check all of my banking apps first thing. I like to keep an eye on my accounts—especially after experiencing some fraud in the past.
Q: Book that made an impact?
A: You Were Born an Original, Don’t Die a Copy by John Mason. The book includes scripture and came into my life at just the right time. It reminded me not to change who I am to fit in or mimic someone else. I am who I’m meant to be, and I don’t need to be a carbon copy of anyone.
Q: Pet peeve?
A: I really have no patience for dishonesty or people who are mean-spirited to others. Kindness and integrity go a long way.