Winter 2025 SOAR Magazine

CHANGEMAKERS

Using Resources Wisely

A Commitment to the Next Generation of Female Leaders As a longtime proponent for financial and high-quality early childhood education, PNC has provided extensive programmatic support for Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri’s money management programs for more than a decade. Committed to helping local families reach their financial goals, PNC invests in leadership development by empowering Girl Scouts to develop crucial financial literacy skills that will pave the way for their financial wellness into adulthood.

PNC deeply values the sustainability, growth, and economic development of the regions they serve, and Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri’s work is integral to developing the pipeline for future female business leaders. By learning to set financial goals, create budgets, handle money and navigate business challenges now, these young women are preparing for their futures. Community investment, including local sponsorships, is essential to PNC’s commitment to Greater St. Louis. PNC helps create cherished traditions for the community, such as The Great Forest Park Balloon Race (pictured on the left), and professional development and mentorship experiences through GSEM’s Women’s Leadership Network. Since its inception, PNC has served as the lead sponsor for GSEM’s Women’s Leadership Network. “As a member of the Women’s Leadership Network Steering Committee, I recognize that the next generation of our region’s business leaders can benefit significantly from positive, approachable role models,” said Crystal Barker, Vice President, Commercial Banking Relationship Manager, PNC Bank. “At the same time, professional women thrive in an environment that inspires them to be successful. The Women’s Leadership Network helps address this dual objective by providing members with the opportunity to expand their personal networks, celebrate their accomplishments and mentor future leaders.”

Crystal Barker, Vice President, Commercial Banking Relationship Manager, PNC Bank—Certified Women’s Business Advocate

With more than 20 years of experience in financial services, Crystal works with local businesses to help deliver insightful banking solutions and is committed to supporting the achievement of women financial decision-makers. In addition to her role with GSEM’s Women’s Leadership Network, Crystal recently joined as a Board Member for Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri. “Girl Scouts is an organization that holds a special place in my heart, and I can trace some of my earliest—and happiest—memories to my time as a Girl Scout Brownie,” said Crystal. “These experiences helped me develop confidence and work ethic— qualities that have been foundational to the success and fulfillment I’ve achieved in my career as a banker. That’s why I want to help ensure that girls throughout our region have access to the formative experiences Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri offers.”

10 SOAR Magazine