Worcester Business Journal

32 Worcester Business Journal | August 20, 2018 | wbjournal.com F O C U S 4 0 U N D E R F O R T Y Bitar started as a Webster Five teller 17 years ago, and now he holds one of the highest positions at the bank. To do so, he worked tirelessly to further his education. He took night classes at Assumption College up to four nights per week year-round for four years. He only paused classes for one semester to get married. He worked his way up the ranks with the bank, until achieving his current position in 2017, where he's improved efficiencies, including managing the bank's software applications. Bitar volunteers as executive director of the Webster Five Foundation, which has made $1 million in charitable contributions during his tenure. He serves as the board president of the Central Mass. Housing Alliance, a member- at-large for the Charlton PTO and Dudley-Charlton Regional School District Special Education Advisory Council. Bitar is a member of the endowment committee of St. George Orthodox Cathedral and a corporator for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Mass./MetroWest. He's previously volunteered for the United Way of Central Mass. and Tri-Valley Elder Services. He served a three-year term on the Oxford School Committee. – Z.C. From judge Kate Sharry: "In addition to rocking it in the world of finance, Sam is very deeply rooted in his community and is making a difference everywhere he goes." What are you most proud of? Personally, my children. Professionally, serving in a leadership role at Webster Five. Which TV character is most like you? Superman or Steve Urkel because I enjoy helping others and think I am made of steel, but I am actually a klutz and geek at heart! Sam Bitar, 36 Vice president & business systems manager Webster Five, Auburn Lives: Charlton Birthplace: Worcester Colleges: Assumption College, Clark University Clark once had to focus on much more pressing matters than taking time engaging young professionals in the area or helping to raise money for heart or cancer care. As a teen, Clark found herself in a variety of trouble, landing on probation at age 13 and dropping out of school at 14. With a GED by age 17, though, Clark was back on track. She has master's degrees in organizational leadership and business administration and is slated to get a doctorate degree next year in business administration. While at Nichols, Clark taught as a visiting professor at her alma mater and became director of its organizational leadership program, where she started to redo its curriculum. Clark has walked to raise money for the American Heart Association and shaved her head to raise money to help fight cancer. She serves on the steering committee for an initiative by the Corridor Nine Chamber of Commerce to engage young professionals. As a career coach, she mentors professionals, recalling how she relied on the help of others to get to where she is today. – G.W. From judge Kate Sharry: "Danielle has defied every odd, overcome tremendous obstacles and has earned every ounce of this award. I am beyond proud of this woman." What will be the movie about your life be called? "The Broken Road that Led Me Straight to ME: Discovering my true potential as a result of adversity" Who is responsible for your success? My husband does EVERYTHING for me, ensuring I'm ready to take on the world. Without him I'd be unbalanced, unfed & unclothed. Danielle J. Clark, 33 Career coach; former director of the Master of Organizational Leadership Program Clark Career Coaching; Nichols College, Dudley Lives: Tewksbury Birthplace: Winchester Colleges: Becker College, Nichols College, University of South Florida Photo taken at Museum of Russian Icons in Clinton.

• Cover