Archive: Business & Technology

Abby Peterson (right) and Michelle Hallock
After a rigorous selection process, Abby Peterson, VP, Marketing Communications has been selected as the Business Leader of the Year for the upcoming Annual Fab5 Young Professional Awards.

Peterson joined Tompkins Trust Company in 2016, and brings over 8 years of Marketing experience to the organization. She was promoted to Vice President in 2019.

Peterson is responsible for overseeing the marketing communications efforts for Tompkins Financial's four community banks; Tompkins Trust Company in Central NY, Tompkins Bank of Castile in Western NY, Tompkins Mahopac Bank in the Hudson Valley, and Tompkins VIST Bank in Southeastern PA.

"We are so proud of Abby and thrilled that her accomplishments are being recognized this year for the Fab5 Awards," said Susan Valenti, Executive Vice President of Marketing. "Abby's experience in the marketing industry, and her time leading our marketing initiatives for our four banks, have contributed to her success as a leader at our Company and as a community leader in Central, NY."

Prior to joining Tompkins in 2016, Peterson served as a marketing and public relations specialist at Hagan Associates in Vermont where she planned and managed marketing and public relations initiatives for multiple clients. She received her bachelor's degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from Ithaca College in 2011 and has resided in Ithaca with her wife since 2013.

Peterson is an active member of the community and serves on the Downtown Ithaca Alliance Board of Directors and marketing committee, Historic Ithaca Development and Marketing Committees, and is a Leadership Tompkins Graduate.

Tompkins Trust Company has promoted Michelle Hallock to Assistant Vice President, Senior Learning & Development Business Partner. Hallock will continue to report to Laura Geary, Vice President, Learning & Development Manager.

Hallock has been with Tompkins Trust Company for 10 years and was previously employed with Denby USA Limited. Her responsibilities include partnering with Tompkins affiliates for hands-on training, coaching, career development, team building, and problem solving. She will continue to help individuals maximize their potential, and support Tompkins Financial's business initiatives.

"We are thrilled for Michelle," said Laura Geary, Vice President, Learning & Development Manager. "She has grown into a superlative mentor, leader, and growth manager for Tompkins and our employees."

Hallock holds her Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of North Carolina and is a certified VitalSmarts trainer. She enjoys spending time with her husband and children and working as a board member for the Registrar for Tompkins Girls Hockey Association.

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