First Bank Celebrates Elizabeth Bostian During Women’s History Month
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Beginning her career in a male-dominated industry, Elizabeth Bostian, First Bank’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO), has risen above gender stereotypes to pave a way for generations to come through her perseverance and high-standing achievements. With a major in English Studies and unable to define the purpose of an invoice, Bostian had much to learn about the industry she would soon enter.
During college, Elizabeth worked alongside a business manager, where she quickly developed a passion for law. Following her obtainment of a law degree, Bostian spent 5 years at a law firm in Greensboro before she began working for First Bank. During her tenure at the bank, she has worked to develop her capabilities to the fullest by embracing unfamiliar territory in a safe space. “First Bank has allowed me to feel safe enough to say ‘I don’t know’ or to ask questions” stated Bostian. With a determined mindset and secure environment, Elizabeth’s ability to safely fail at times granted her the ability to grow in the most unexpected ways.
As the third generation Elizabeth, Bostian always admired her mother and grandmother as they encouraged her to have a growth mindset and embrace the challenges ahead. Elizabeth noted the role her late grandmother played in her life by being a well-educated and traveled woman for her age as well as demonstrating the confidence and courage it takes to shape the life you aspire to have. Being raised by a single mother, Bostian was also aware of the obstacles faced by women and the deterrent effects of unconscious bias against those who wished to obtain a higher degree. Along with the equal expectations set in place for Elizabeth and her siblings, Bostian’s mother and grandmother built the foundation that drives her to advocate for gender equality.
Throughout her professional life, Bostian emphasized the importance of every woman that has come before her. Influenced by the women around her, she gained the knowledge of how to navigate male-dominated industries and developed strong relationships with those who valued her abilities and provided wisdom on how to elevate them to make a difference. As a result of her mentorship and self-discovery in the banking industry, she aspires to encourage women of the younger generation to step out of their safe zones and become comfortable in the uncomfortable. Bostian emphasized the significance of interrupting the need for women to play into the stereotypical role created by society in order to feel valued. As a businesswoman, Elizabeth was often told she needed to learn how to play golf and dress in a specific way to gain the respect of her male colleagues. Unlike men, women are more likely to become their own personal barrier for career advancement by shying away from a role when they do not have the full set of qualifications; therefore, Bostian strives to combat this barrier by reassuring women of their value and encouraging them to embrace what she states to be the key to success: self-awareness.
By acknowledging her strengths and becoming aware of her weaknesses, Elizabeth has written her own path to success. Today, she strives to foster an environment of inclusivity and highlight the need to establish a work-life balance for mothers in management positions. As a CFO and mother of two, Bostian understands first-hand the experiences female moms are facing during such a critical time, surrounded by the effects of Covid-19. Along with her career ambitions and family, Bostian is her happiest when she is active. She enjoys exercising with friends, exploring the outdoors, traveling, and reading. Through her out-of-the-office endeavors, Elizabeth has continued to learn about the obstacles facing women in the business sector and ways she can implement strategies and awareness within her personal and professional life.
