Wendi Boyen: A Lifelong Commitment to Community

Wendi Boyen has been influencing her community for more than three decades through her work in banking and leadership. Currently, she serves as the executive vice president of community development lending and investment at a local bank, where she harnesses both her professional skills and a personal mission.

Her career has always revolved around using financial resources not just for economic gain but also to create opportunities that improve lives.

A Purpose-Driven Journey

Boyen’s banking career started 32 years ago at Am South. “I was really excited to join a commercial bank where I could put my university and graduate school skills to use,” she remembers. “The chance to collaborate and contribute to our clients’ successes from the very beginning was incredibly fulfilling.”

As her career progressed, she took on roles that demanded innovation and leadership. About a decade in, Boyen was tasked with launching a niche market that evolved into a full business line for Government and Institutional Banks.

“I built a dedicated team to assist nonprofits, schools, and government agencies,” she shares. “Together, we offered financial solutions that enabled these organizations to provide essential services and better serve their communities.”

These early leadership experiences became foundational for her long-term vision in banking. Four years ago, she transitioned to the community engagement team, fully committing her efforts to initiatives that directly benefit the community.

“I sincerely feel that God is guiding my path,” she states, “and I am surrounded by amazing teammates. Together, we make a real difference.”

Her faith and collaborative spirit have consistently influenced her work ethic.

Driving Community Development Initiatives

In 2024, Boyen became a crucial player in the local community development lending and investment team.

This role merges her passion for service with her banking experience. “I focus on creating and implementing strategies to enhance the bank’s community development loans and investments,” she clarifies.

Her efforts are broad, showcasing the many ways financial institutions can positively influence their communities. She emphasizes the tangible outcomes these initiatives bring.

“We aim to create opportunities that lead to affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization, small business growth, job creation, and other initiatives that strengthen the community,” she explains. “I leverage my past experiences and connections to advocate for our mission of improving lives. It’s something I’m truly passionate about.”

Under her guidance, the team plans to enhance partnerships with Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). By providing loans, deposits, and technical support, Boyen empowers these organizations to maximize their impact.

“We align our resources with local relationships to amplify our efforts in community service,” she adds. “This approach strengthens the foundation of Alabama.”

Boyen sees economic development as intricately linked to social impact.

By supporting small businesses, energizing neighborhoods, and paving pathways to affordable housing, she and her team are focused on creating opportunities that extend beyond just lending money. Their goal is to generate jobs, stabilize communities, and uplift families across the region.

Inspired by Strong Women

Boyen finds motivation from the women in her life who embody leadership and commitment. One major influence is her mother.

“She was involved in everything from being a Brownie leader to the executive director of a nonprofit aimed at preventing child abuse,” Boyen recalls. “She inspires me with her ability to make time for others, all while maintaining a joyful spirit.”

Friendship and service have also shaped her outlook. During the early days of the pandemic, she volunteered and met Gale, a woman who had faced serious health issues but remained resolutely optimistic.

“Gale’s resilience inspires me. Despite losing her job and home, she remains positive and grounded in her faith, family, and friendships,” Boyen adds.

These women are more than just role models; they reflect the values Boyen strives to apply in her career: perseverance, kindness, and a focus on uplifting others. They remind her that true impact is gauged by the lives you touch, not by titles or accolades.

Strengthening Alabama

Boyen’s initiatives focus on bolstering the community throughout the bank’s reach, with a strong emphasis on Alabama. Her work supports children, families, and local economies.

“Our team is proud to be involved with programs like Junior Achievement at Alabama’s New Center for Economic Education,” she states.

Her leadership has also aimed to expand financial education and opportunities in historically marginalized communities. This commitment aligns with the bank’s belief that robust communities are vital for lasting economic growth.

“Using my skills to contribute to a stronger community is incredibly rewarding,” she remarks.

Her influence extends beyond her daily responsibilities.

She’s actively involved on the boards of various nonprofits in Alabama, providing guidance on programs focused on education, economic development, and social services. Boyen recognizes the value of leveraging expertise to achieve meaningful outcomes.

Ultimately, she believes in collective progress. “Alabama can thrive if we commit to helping every resident reach their highest potential,” she emphasizes. Through a combination of financial insight and compassion, Boyen and her team demonstrate that banking can truly catalyze community development.

Leadership with a Lasting Legacy

For Boyen, her lengthy career is not measured by personal accolades but by the positive changes she facilitates. Each loan and investment is a step toward a more resilient community. She approaches her work with humility, teamwork, and an eye toward long-term impact.

“Every day, we remind ourselves that our work isn’t just about numbers,” she reflects. “It’s really about families, businesses, and communities. It’s about improving lives. That’s what fuels my passion.”

Wendi Boyen exemplifies how business acumen and social responsibility can coexist, becoming even more potent together.

Her vision for community development banking continues to reshape Alabama’s neighborhoods, bolster small businesses, and create opportunities for generations to come.

I’m honored to recognize Wendy Boyen as an inspiring figure for 2025.