Az Big Media will be profiling one of the Most Influential Women in Arizona for 2025 each day leading up to the celebratory dinner on August 21, 2025. Today, meet Catherine Harmon, commercial banking team lead at Alerus.

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Catherine Harmon, Alerus

Background: Harmon is a seasoned commercial banker and currently leads Alerus’ commercial banking team in Arizona. She builds relationships with business owners and entrepreneurs, contributing 25 years of commercial and industrial lending, commercial real estate, and credit analysis expertise to help them achieve long-term financial success.

Source of pride: “My unique perspective as an immigrant, combined with my financial acumen, has empowered me to excel, overcome obstacles, and make significant contributions to high-stake deals in a competitive industry. Determination, intelligence, and professionalism transcend borders. I hope my career inspires others to challenge norms and achieve success through perseverance and passion.”

Professional advice: “When it comes to building relationships, whether personal or professional, be true to yourself.  Authenticity pays dividends … just like compound interest.”

Surprising fact: “One of my favorite hobbies is target shooting.  I learned to shoot in high school during military training class in Taiwan.  My first experience with a firearm was with an M-16 rifle in preparation for a potential armed attack from China.”

Celebratory dinner

The 2025 honorees will be celebrated at a special awards dinner on August 21, 2025, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix. Sponsors of the Most Influential Women in Arizona reception and dinner include presenting sponsor Phillips Law Foundation, cover photo shoot sponsor Greenberg Traurig, VIP red carpet sponsor Vertex Education and Legacy Traditional Schools, dessert sponsor Silver Cain, beverage sponsor Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation, 360 photo booth sponsor Clayco, digital sponsor Ganem Companies, fine jewelry sponsor Osborne Jewelers, and special gift sponsor Tarbell’s. Get tickets here.