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Monson Builds Successful Career, Keeps Close Ties to CBA

From aces and blocks to investments and loans, Mandy Monson ’00, thrives on competition. As the vice president of finance for Resort Lifestyle Communities/Cameron General Contractors in Lincoln, Nebraska, the College of Business Administration graduate excelled as a business administration major and psychology minor at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
 
Balancing a successful volleyball career along with her courses, Monson was drawn to CBA after taking an accounting class during her sophomore year. Through taking general business courses, she gravitated toward the major.
 
“As a student-athlete, I had a natural love for management and leadership. This was enhanced by working with professors at the College of Business,” she said. “A CBA degree gives young women the opportunity to have an edge in their careers. I do what I love every day, and my degree from CBA is a significant contributor to my success.”
 
Monson blocking a shot as a Husker
Monson blocking a shot as a Husker
After graduation, Monson quickly jumped into the business world. In her first job, she served as an investment associate at Salomon Smith Barney (Morgan Stanley) for almost two years. From 2003-06 she worked at Nelnet as an affinity marketing representative and became affinity marketing director from 2006-07. After serving as a credit analyst at Union Bank & Trust, she was promoted to assistant vice president in commercial loans for six years before joining Resort Lifestyle Communities. She said utilizing the variety of classes she took prepared her to take on the different positions.
 
“I had a very versatile experience in the college that applies to my work now. I use accounting, business calculus and finance management every day,” she said. “My schooling and degree was well-rounded, so it allowed me to do about anything I wanted in the business realm.”
 
In her current job, she not only works with local banks in Lincoln, but creates and develops relationships with financial institutions throughout the country. In addition, she secures loans to finance new construction projects for the company, resulting in a fast-paced environment – a mentality she learned from being a student-athlete.
 
“When you play a sport in college everything is very regimented. You wake up, go to class, practice, study and go to bed – then you wake up and do it all again,” she said. “My experience on the volleyball court and just being in that competitive environment is still with me today. It’s a huge part of me as a person. I want to win and be successful and bring that to the company.”
 
Not only does being a former athlete apply to her career, but her CBA connections remain strong. She credits the leadership of the college as central in creating a community atmosphere.
 
“As a business professional in the city of Lincoln, I’m still receiving support from the college and the great leaders it has to offer and that’s why it’s important to give back and be engaged,” Monson said. “I try and attend every event Donde Plowman is speaking at because she does a great job not only helping UNL students, but bringing information and insight to people in our business community.”
 
Looking back at her college experience, she encourages students to be open-minded when starting college.
 
“Not only will you learn so much at Nebraska, but you’ll develop relationships you will still have as you mature in your career,” she said. “Be open to the experiences the college has to offer, find what you believe to be engaging and pursue that.”

Monson was featured as a #BizLeadHER on CBA Twitter and Instagram.
 
Maddie Balfany posing with backpack
Published: January 24, 2017