In celebration of Marquette Bank’s 80th anniversary, we’re spotlighting the people behind the mission; those who bring heart, care, and real community service to life every day. One of those people is Kathy Scofield, who manages two of Marquette Bank’s standout programs for seniors: the Marquette Club and the Senior Center Banking program.
We sat down with Kathy to discuss her role at Marquette Bank. Here's what she had to say.
Banking Beyond the Branch
Kathy’s role isn’t what you might expect from someone at a bank. She helps seniors stay connected to their finances whether they’re at home or out discovering the world.
One part of her job includes coordinating mobile banking services for residents at senior centers, apartments, and individual homes across the south side of Chicago. “We go where they are,” Kathy says. “If someone is homebound or doesn’t drive anymore, we bring the bank to them.” That weekly one-on-one service allows seniors to manage their finances securely without needing to brave the weather, arrange transportation, or risk isolation.
Reaching New Horizons
The other half of Kathy’s job involves running the Marquette Club, an exclusive program for customers aged 55 and up. With just a checking account, members gain access to a rich lineup of social, educational, and travel opportunities. Think anti-fraud seminars, digital banking classes, day trips to musicals and museums, and even 10-day overseas adventures.
From cruises on the Rhine to scenic tours of Tuscany, Kathy helps organize 8 to 9 extended trips per year, many of which she attends. “Some of our travelers have never been out of the country. Some haven’t even left the state,” Kathy explains. “They trust us. And when they travel in a group, they feel safe and supported.”
Recent destinations have included Costa Rica, Italy, Amsterdam, Yellowstone, and even a surprise “mystery tour.”
As for what's coming up? Scotland, Ireland, and Portugal.
Community Comes First
While travel is a highlight, it’s the deeper connections that make Kathy proud. She recalled one story about a woman who had just lost her husband and moved into a senior home. “She hugged me the moment I walked in,” Kathy said. “She was overwhelmed with gratitude that someone from her bank showed up to help her manage her finances in person.”
Kathy also mentioned a 95-year-old couple who never misses the bank’s annual holiday party, driving over in person to hand-deliver their payment to make sure they don’t miss out. “They’ve been with the bank their whole lives. It’s a relationship rooted in trust.”
The Human Side of Banking
For Kathy, helping seniors isn't just a job. It’s a calling. Whether it’s teaching someone in their 90s how to use mobile banking or helping a couple celebrate their 60th anniversary with a dream trip, she sees her role as deeply personal. “We want them to feel like they belong here,” she says. “That this is their bank, their people, their family.”
She believes it’s this culture of empathy and connection that keeps customers loyal for decades. “People don’t come to us because of flashy ads. They come because they know someone will be here to shake their hand, listen to their needs, and help.”