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 Melissa Carrasco, vice president — commercial real estate banker, at Bell Bank.

MORE NEWS: The Most Influential Women in Arizona for 2025

DEEPER DIVE: The Most Influential Women in Commercial Real Estate for 2025

Melissa Carrasco, Bell Bank

Background: An Arizona native with more than 28 years of banking experience, Carrasco blends her deep industry knowledge with her passion for making a difference and helping others. In her role as vice president of commercial real estate, she specializes in structuring creative financing solutions and takes pride in building meaningful relationships that help her clients succeed.

Source of pride: “Just over a year into my role at Bell Bank, our Market President, Kyle Kennedy, created the Culture Award in my honor— and I was the first recipient. It meant more than any Top Producer award that I have ever received because it recognized the values I try to live daily: integrity, teamwork, and heart. Knowing it continues each year makes it even more meaningful.”

Professional advice: “Hard work, enthusiasm and a genuine love of the job is an unbeatable combination. Never take no for an answer and always strive to be the best. Knowledge is power—keep learning, keep asking questions. Most importantly, Pay It Forward! Your passion and generosity will shape your success.”

Surprising fact: “When I’m not busy lending millions, I’m covered in sawdust from my latest DIY project —or flour from baking custom layered cakes. Who knew finance, power tools, and buttercream could go hand in hand!”

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.