[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 49 (Friday, April 12, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E444-E445]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            RECOGNIZING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF MELANIE DRESSEL

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                            HON. ADAM SMITH

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 12, 2013

  Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Melanie Dressel 
of Tacoma for receiving the 2013 Executive Excellence Award for CEO of 
the Year from Seattle Business Magazine. Dressel is the President and 
CEO of Columbia Bank and Columbia Banking System, Inc.
  The Executive Excellence Award honors leaders in Washington State who 
demonstrate exceptional leadership and communication skills in the 
workplace, inspiring their employees to apply themselves and do their 
best.
  Dressel began her career at Columbia Bank nearly 18 years ago. She, 
along with the Columbia Bank team, created a unique banking system. The 
new local bank offered programs that big banks provided, such as 
private banking and cash management, while adopting small-town values 
and quality customer service. These services enhanced the perception of 
banking, making Columbia Bank one of the most popular and successful 
banks in the Northwest.
  Under Dressel, Columbia Bank not only expanded, but also endured the 
financial crisis with ease. Dressel said that by making smart

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investment decisions and remaining loyal to their business model, they 
were able to advance their institution. Dressel and her team did not 
rely heavily on real estate loans and only raised capital when the 
market improved.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I recognize Melanie Dressel 
and her admirable leadership as President and CEO of Columbia Bank and 
Columbia Banking System, Inc. She is a prime example of sound banking 
company management.

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