Dear Members and Friends of the Washington Mortgage Bankers Association,
I am deeply honored to address you as the new President of the Washington Mortgage Bankers Association (WMBA). It is with great enthusiasm that I step into this role, and I look forward to working alongside all of you in the coming year.
Earlier this year, our Annual Planning Meeting served as the starting point for the creation of WMBA’s vision statement. After additional work was completed by Board Members, Andy McDonough and Mike Olden, the final version was completed in September. This statement embodies our organization’s work, and it is meant to guide us as we make decisions on how to best serve our members and industry. I’d like to share the vision statement with you all below:
The Washington Mortgage Bankers Association is the voice of the mortgage industry community in Washington State.
The WMBA exists to educate, connect, and inspire our members, clients, and partners to engage, advocate, and positively impact the communities we live and serve.
Education is the foundation upon which we build a brighter future for our industry. In an ever-evolving landscape, staying informed and continuously improving our knowledge is essential. WMBA is committed to providing educational resources and opportunities that empower our members to excel in their roles. Through our programs and initiatives, we aim to equip you with the tools and insights needed to thrive in an ever-changing mortgage environment.
Advocacy is a vital function of the WMBA. As the only Washington state mortgage lending association with a full-time Lobbyist, we are committed to advocating for policies and practices that promote a thriving mortgage industry and ensure homeownership remains accessible to all. We will work diligently to represent our members’ interests to policymakers and regulators, advocating for responsible lending practices and fostering an environment conducive to sustainable homeownership. Your involvement and input in this advocacy process are essential, as we seek to make a meaningful impact on the future of our industry.
Connection and community lie at the heart of what we do at WMBA. Our organization brings together a diverse group of professionals from the mortgage industry, each with a unique perspective and expertise. Together, we form a community dedicated to supporting and enhancing the mortgage industry in Washington State. As we move forward, let us strengthen our commitment to this community, fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and working collaboratively to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
As your President, I am committed to advancing these core values and working tirelessly to serve our community’s best interests. I invite each of you to actively participate in WMBA’s activities, contribute your expertise, and join us in our pursuit of a successful, impactful, and sustainable mortgage industry.
Together, we will strengthen our sense of community, foster collaboration, expand our knowledge, and advocate for the continued growth and success of the mortgage industry in Washington State.
Thank you for your trust and support, and I look forward to the exciting journey ahead.
Sincerely,
Tony Fernandez, President, Washington Mortgage Bankers Association
