In the world of banking, few voices resonate as powerfully as Carla Bland’s. A career banker, passionate musician, and dedicated community advocate, Carla’s journey reflects her commitment to empowering others through education and opportunity.
Carla’s story begins at 19, as a summer intern at Wells Fargo, where she was surprised and inspired by the little diversity she saw in the workplace. In those days, banking, like many other corporate places did not have many people of color, especially women. Finding herself in that space, thanks to a Black woman in HR, got her thinking of the doors she can open for others that look like her, doors that have historically been very hard to open.
This initial exposure to the banking industry ignited her passion for finance. Carla is a person who loved to know the whole story, see the whole puzzle. As she progressed through various departments, she cultivated a comprehensive understanding of how different sectors within banking interconnect.
Beyond her banking career, Carla is deeply rooted in music. As a musician with a family legacy in the arts, she runs a music school where she teaches piano and vocal techniques. Carla’s love for music complements her professional life, as she believes that creativity and discipline in the arts can translate to success in finance.
Recognizing the significant barriers to homeownership faced by communities of color, Carla transitioned into the role of a mortgage loan officer. Research indicates that Minnesota has one of the highest homeownership gaps in the nation, particularly between white and Black households.
In 1950, the gap in homeownership rates between Black Minnesotans and White Minnesotans was about 20%. Over 70 years later, that gap has more than doubled; the homeownership rate for Black Minnesotans is approximately 50% lower than that of white Minnesotans. (Link)
Carla observed a troubling trend: a lack of education about the home-buying process in underserved neighborhoods. Her mission became clear: to educate and empower potential homeowners, bridging the knowledge gap that often leaves marginalized communities behind. She draws from her adventurous spirit—sparked by her short-term mission work in Liberia—to inspire others to explore opportunities for growth.
At Old National Bank, Carla has a unique mortgage program tailored for individuals with credit scores as low as 600. This program features a competitive interest rate of 5.5% and eliminates private mortgage insurance (PMI), saving borrowers an estimated $300 per month on their mortgage payments.
Carla highlights the availability of down payment assistance programs, where qualifying individuals can receive up to $15,000 as a grant for home purchases in eligible neighborhoods. She emphasizes that housing is a fundamental need and that homeownership is a right, passionately advocating for the empowerment of her community.
For women, especially women of color, navigating the corporate landscape can be daunting. Carla emphasizes the importance of mentorship. “There are unspoken rules in corporate America,” she explains. Research shows that over 60% of women in corporate roles report feeling isolated without mentorship (Link). Carla believes that having a mentor can provide invaluable guidance, helping to navigate these complexities and fostering success in one’s career.
As someone who values relationships, Carla approaches mentorship with the same warmth and openness that she extends to her music students. She believes in the transformative power of connection, whether through sharing financial knowledge or teaching someone to sing.
Carla Bland’s journey is one of resilience, creativity, and community-focused advocacy. By educating others about homeownership and providing accessible financial resources, she is not only transforming lives but also laying the groundwork for a more equitable future. Her multifaceted interests remind us that passion can drive change in many forms.
Call to Action
If you're interested in learning more about Carla's mortgage programs or seeking guidance in your own financial journey, visit Old National Bank's website to connect with her directly.