An organization that develops a deep and thriving culture will actually weather difficult economic times more powerfully. If employees know who they are, what they are working for, are trusted in their organizations and know what it takes to succeed, they will be likely to stick with you through the bumps, and find a way to thrive and cause your organization to prosper.

Umpqua Bank has created a culture that deeply engages and empowers their associates. In this session, Ms. Baker will describe the values and programs that make this extraordinary culture consistent and self-propelling. Umpqua has appeared on Oregon Business Magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For" list 12 times since 1995, including the number one rank in 2004. Nationally, Umpqua was ranked among its "100 Best Companies to Work for" in 2009 for the third year in a row. As Executive Vice President of Cultural Enhancement, Ms. Baker is uniquely qualified to describe the approach they take to engaging employees and allowing them to rise and your organization to flourish.