Blog Post

Unlocking Dreams: The Women Leading the Mortgage Team at Blackhawk Bank & Trust

March 5, 2025

Women’s History Month is a time to honor the accomplishments of women across all industries. At Blackhawk Bank & Trust, female leadership plays a pivotal role in driving success and innovation, and our mortgage division is a testament to that.

These leaders ensure homebuyers experience seamless, professional guidance through the complexities of financing, creating a positive impact on both the community and the bank’s continued growth. Lets meet the women who open doors and lead the way in home financing.

Michelle Dawson, Vice President & Head of Secondary Market

With over two decades in banking, Michelle has built a career rooted in expertise and dedication to client success. She first started out as a teller with Great River Bank & Trust in 2000 and then became a loan assistant. By 2009, she was a lender, managing commercial, consumer, and real estate loans.

When Blackhawk Bank & Trust acquired Great River Bank, Michelle was instrumental in expanding the bank’s mortgage services. In 2013, she helped establish, the bank’s secondary market department, which she now leads. Most recently, Michelle graduated from the Graduate School of Banking, and her leadership continues to drive innovation and excellence in mortgage lending.

Laura Cameron, Mortgage Officer

Laura Cameron also has over 20 years in banking, with experience in mortgage operations, processing, underwriting, and lending at institutions including US Bank, The Heritage Bank, TBK Bank and now Blackhawk Bank & Trust.

Since joining Blackhawk Bank & Trust in 2013, she has played a key role in establishing the Secondary Market department alongside Michelle Dawson. For the past decade she has been dedicated to expanding her expertise of in-house real estate lending, including construction, bridge, ARM loans, and HELOCs. With a deep understanding of mortgage operations and a commitment to customer-focused lending, she continues to help clients navigate their home financing needs with confidence.

Cynthia Loyde, Mortgage Officer

Cynthia studied Business Management at Robert Morris College in her hometown of Chicago, IL. She would then begin her mortgage career in 1998 as a loan processor, and later become a Conventional and FHA underwriter. After relocating to the Quad Cities in 2011, she worked as a Residential Mortgage Underwriter for Port Byron State Bank, which merged with Blackhawk Bank & Trust in 2016. Cynthia specializes in conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA mortgage lending, along with Bridge Loans, Construction Loans, and HELOCs. With over 25 years of experience in processing, underwriting, closing, and servicing loans, she is committed to providing tailored financing solutions for both new and existing homeowners.

Women Driving Excellence in Banking & Community

Leadership in the financial industry goes beyond numbers—it’s about dedication, compassion, and making a meaningful impact. The women leaders across all departments at Blackhawk Bank & Trust exemplify strength and innovation, driving success and enriching the communities we serve. Their commitment fosters an environment that encourages growth and progress. As trailblazers in financial services, their expertise and passion reflect the bank’s core values and unwavering focus on excellence.

To work with our dynamic team mortgage team call Cynthia at (309)787-9551 or Laura at (309) 787-9506, or visit us at choosethechief.com.

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