Peoples Bank Educates on Banking and Business

Exceptional Volunteer Spotlight: Dane Robinson

Dane Robinson and Mary Anne Seaman

Peoples Bank Inspires Students with Real-World Insights into Banking and Business


South Charlotte Middle School welcomed Peoples Bank commercial lender Dane Robinson as he shared his passion for the dynamic world of finance and the diverse opportunities it offers. The students were captivated as Dane discussed his role and the ever-changing nature of his job. With enthusiasm, he conveyed how his job provides him with variety every day, from analyzing financials to visiting plants and construction sites.

As the students listened intently, Dane emphasized the different roles within the banking industry, highlighting the crucial contributions of IT, Marketing, commercial lending and more. He engaged the students by illustrating practical examples and real-life scenarios, helping them understand the complexities of the current economic climate.

Michelle Shuler, a marketing professional at Peoples Bank, also addressed the students. She spoke about the unique community-oriented focus of community banks. She also shared her love for communications and how she enjoys sharing stories about bank employees who devote their time to volunteering in the community.

Dane skillfully explained the impact of higher interest rates in the current economic landscape, drawing parallels from the restaurant industry and the shortage of essential goods like toilet paper during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through these relatable examples, he helped the students grasp the principles of supply and demand.

Ms. Seaman, South Charlotte Middle School Business instructor, was delighted by the engagement displayed by her students during Dane’s presentation. The students seemed to gain clarity about the challenges of the labor market, the significance of saving for retirement, and the intricate dynamics of supply and demand. Ms. Seaman commended Dane for highlighting the importance of soft skills in business, encouraging students to prioritize personal connections over impersonal communication methods.

Dane’s presentation also stressed the power of compounding interest, the value of budgeting, and the importance of discerning between wants and needs. Students were encouraged to set savings goals, prioritize online safety, and maintain strong credit scores.

Furthermore, Dane emphasized the vital role of profitability in businesses, highlighting how his bank excels in supporting the growth of small businesses. His extensive knowledge and passion for his work left a lasting impression on the students, who are now more aware of the wide range of opportunities available to them in the banking and business sectors.

Peoples Bank frequently provides in-classroom presentations on timely topics and offers a virtual Financial Wellness Center, where individuals can learn more about managing their money. The Financial Wellness Center can be accessed by visiting PeoplesBankNC.com/Learn.