A Symphony of Service

For nearly 20 years, Erika Guerra, Vice President and Retail Banking Operations Manager, has poured her time, energy, and heart into supporting the students at Palmetto Ridge High School, both as a mom to four sons who matriculated through the school, and through her volunteer work with the school’s music program. As Band Boosters Treasurer for the past decade, Erika has been a steady and reliable force behind the scenes—managing fundraisers, ensuring financial stability, and helping make it possible for all student musicians to participate in multiple trips to state and national marching band championships.

But Erika’s impact extends far beyond spreadsheets and budgets. She has become a trusted mentor and role model, encouraging students to believe in themselves, build confidence, and find joy and purpose through music. Erika’s real impact lives in the quieter moments – the nervous freshman she encouraged before their first performance, the struggling student she helped find their confidence, and the countless young people who discovered that music could be their pathway to belonging.

Whether she’s chaperoning long bus rides, cheering from the stands, or offering a listening ear, Erika makes every student feel seen, supported, and valued.

"Seeing the kids come into their own and share their true personalities is a beautiful experience,” says Erika.  “Watching them being able to open up and express themselves is such a joy and privilege."

Her approach is uniquely hers—equal parts fierce protector and gentle encourager. She's the one staying up until midnight reconciling concession stand receipts so the band can afford new uniforms. She's also the one who never misses a performance, cheering from the stands with the enthusiasm of a parent watching their own child, because in many years, she is.

What began as a way to support her own children has grown into a decade’s long commitment. Erika has helped create a strong, inclusive community within the band program—one where students feel safe, welcomed, and empowered to thrive both on and off the field. She leads with compassion, dedication, and joy, helping young musicians discover not only their talents but also a deep sense of belonging.

As Erika's youngest son prepares to graduate this year, an era is ending. After nearly two decades of Friday night performances, competition bus rides, and countless hours spent ensuring these young musicians have every opportunity to succeed, the Guerra family chapter at Palmetto Ridge is drawing to a close.

 But Erika's legacy is already secure. It lives in a mother’s love for her four sons and the hundreds of young musicians who learned that with hard work, dedication, and someone believing in you, beautiful music—and beautiful lives—are possible. She has demonstrated what it looks like to live a life of purpose: professionally excellent, personally generous, and completely committed to lifting others up along the way.

That's the kind of volunteer—and the kind of person—who deserves recognition. Erika Guerra doesn't just wear many hats; she wears them all with grace, making everyone around her better in the process.