Veronica Ross, senior vice president and director of engagement at Kearny Bank, was recently honored with the prestigious Woman of Impact Award by the New Jersey Bankers Association (NJBankers). The award was presented earlier this month during the Association’s annual Banking on Women Conference.
The Woman of Impact Award recognizes NJBankers members who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the advancement of women in the banking sector and whose leadership has fostered tangible positive change. With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Ross was lauded by peers and leadership for her transformative impact on workplace culture and community service.
“With more than 40 years of banking experience, Veronica Ross is the definition of a woman of impact in our industry,” said Michael Affuso, President & CEO of NJBankers. “Her dedication to supporting the Kearny Bank team and making a lasting impact on both employees and the community is exemplary.”
As Director of Engagement at Kearny Bank, Ross has become a “hands-on leader,” spearheading initiatives that support both the bank’s internal culture and the broader New Jersey community. Her key contributions include:
- Empowering Women in Business: She leads the Kearny Bank ChangeMakers program, which provides educational support, strategic networking, and resources to help women-owned businesses succeed.
- Wellness Initiatives: Through strategic partnerships, she has pioneered wellness programs focusing on critical issues such as mental health, caregiving, and stress management.
- Financial Literacy: Ross has coordinated wide-reaching financial literacy programs for seniors, veterans, students, and nonprofit partners, ensuring that families across the state have the practical tools for long-term financial stability.
Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Ross maintains an active role in civic and nonprofit leadership. She serves on the steering committees for the NCJW of Essex County Back 2 School initiative and Executive Women of New Jersey. Her history of volunteerism also includes long-standing service with the Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey, who honored her with the Women of Achievement Award in 2024.
“This award is especially meaningful to me because it represents so much more than an individual achievement,” Ross said upon receiving the honor. “It reflects a career built on curiosity, commitment, and community—and on the many people who have guided, supported, challenged, and inspired me along the way.”
Before her tenure at Kearny Bank, Ross built a distinguished three-decade career in retail banking management at several top national institutions, earning a reputation for service excellence and sales leadership.
