It was out of character for Patty Mongold, CEO of Mt. McKinley Bank, to be in the limelight when she was honored on Nov. 15 as the 2025 UAF Business Leader of the Year.

She started working at the bank as a part-time teller when she was still in high school in 1976. Her retirement in 2026 will mark 50 years of continual service to the bank.

The celebration at the 8 Star Events Center honored Mongold, who usually works behind the scenes. As one friend said, “She doesn’t seek the spotlight, so everyone around her is able to shine even more brightly.”

Mongold described the evening festivities as “phenomenal.”

“What a night,” she sighed, after officially receiving the award and being honored with multiple standing ovations during the evening.

“I’m profoundly grateful for the opportunities

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