Jessica Barr (’02): Embracing Lifelong Learning
September 4, 2025 | 2-3 min read
For Jessica Barr (’02), education has never been confined to the classroom—it’s a way of life. From launching a career in banking through Florida College connections, to mentoring young professionals, to returning as a student herself, Barr’s journey reflects a lifelong commitment to learning driven by purpose.
While at Florida College, Barr began pursuing business with hopes of a career in interior design. Instead, an opportunity through an FC connection led her to Terrace Bank, opening the door to a profession that would shape her future. After stepping away to raise her three children, she reentered the industry a decade later—again through an FC relationship—this time at Pilot Bank. Today, she serves as Small Business Administration Loan Operations Manager at Lake Michigan Credit Union.
In her current role, Barr guides lending processes that help small businesses open their doors and grow. She finds joy in watching local entrepreneurs succeed, describing the work as both challenging and deeply rewarding. Her drive to see others flourish has also fueled her own growth. In 2019, she completed Florida Banking School, gaining deeper expertise in her industry. Most recently, she graduated from Future Lending Leaders, a yearlong program with the National Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders. This selective experience pushed her beyond her comfort zone and equipped her for greater influence and leadership in her field.
Barr has remained committed to investing in others as her career has advanced. She has hired interns from Florida College, proudly mentoring them into full-time roles and promotions.
“The honesty and integrity that come from FC students are extremely desired in the workplace,” she shared. “It’s almost a lost art now to have somebody who is an honest worker.”
Barr offers encouragement to students entering the workforce.
“Over the years, I’ve found that you are always learning, no matter where you are. College builds a foundation, but it’s not the end. There will always be unexpected opportunities to grow, and that refining process never stops.”
True to her own advice, Barr has returned to Florida College to complete her Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration while working full-time.
“This is just something I want to do for me,” she said. “It’s another level of accomplishment that I want to obtain.”
Jessica Barr’s story is a testament to lifelong learning. From building a successful career in banking, to mentoring the next generation, to pursuing her degree, she embraces growth at every stage of life. Her example embodies the spirit of Florida College and the values it instills in its students and alumni: faith, integrity, and a passion for learning that lasts a lifetime.