NSTS_VickiDrinka_EmployeeSpotlight_092623

Employee Spotlight: Vicki Drinka

Victoria L Drinka, an Asst. Vice President and Retirement Specialist, is no short-timer when it comes to her commitment to North Shore Trust. She started her journey with us way back in 1993 and has devoted 25 years to full time service. But her commitment isn’t just measured in years; it’s also about her continuous pursuit of knowledge. She often remarks, “Education? Ongoing! I’ve never stopped learning,” which beautifully sums up her insatiable thirst for growth and understanding.

Throughout her tenure, Victoria has donned many hats – from beginning in customer service to roles like a universal banker, retirement specialist, branch manager, and now an invaluable member of our Compliance Department. She fondly recalls the numerous roles she has undertaken, emphasizing how these experiences have enabled her to serve our customers and staff more effectively. One of her proudest achievements lies in our IRA services where she assists long-term customers in managing their savings for their golden years. Her expertise often leads to those wonderful “aha” moments, where she gets to share her extensive knowledge with both colleagues and customers.

When asked what she cherishes most about her career, Victoria quickly points to the people and the community. “I have been very fortunate over the years to have grown and worked with wonderful people at NSTS,” she reflects. The bonds she has formed over her tenure are a testament to her dedication, with some relationships extending over three decades. But it’s not just about the past; it’s also about the present. Victoria’s passion for NSTS is evident. She loves that while we have all the modern amenities of the big banks, we stand apart because of our community touch. “We know our customers,” she beams with pride.

Outside of NSTS, Victoria’s dedication to the community shines just as brightly. As a Lodge Officer and member of KSKJ, a Slovenian Fraternal organization, she engages in various community service activities. Whether it’s working with “Feed My Starving Children,” organizing drives for local food pantries, or sponsoring events to benefit the Midwest Veteran’s Closet, she’s always ready to lend a helping hand.

And for a dash of fun trivia about Victoria? She was once a contestant on “Wheel of Fortune” and walked away with a Baby Grand Piano and cash prizes! When she’s not working or volunteering, Victoria has a penchant for reading, baking delicious desserts, and playing cribbage (even participating in tournaments when she can). But above all, she treasures moments with her family, particularly when she steps into her cherished role as ‘Grammi’ to her two young granddaughters.