Laurie Stewart, president and CEO of Sound Community Bank, has been named a 2025 Puget Sound Business Journal Most Admired CEO Award winner. Stewart, a Sequim native, was recognized for her visionary leadership, remarkable career achievements, and deep commitment to the communities she serves.

The Most Admired CEO Awards honor the region’s top business leaders who inspire those around them, lead successful organizations, and make significant contributions to the Puget Sound community.

This year’s honorees represent diverse industries but share a common thread: they are respected, results-driven leaders dedicated to making a lasting difference, a press release stated.

Stewart has led Sound Community Bank for 35 years, steering its transformation from a $38 million credit union to a $1.1 billion publicly traded commercial bank. Her leadership is marked by strong financial performance, a focus on community banking, and tireless industry advocacy, the press release stated.

She has served in prominent leadership roles at the national and state levels, including chair of the American Bankers Association and chair of the Washington Bankers Association.

She is currently on the head office Board of Directors for the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, following two consecutive terms on the Seattle branch board. She currently serves as secretary/treasurer of the Jamestown S’Klallam CDFI, where she is the only non-tribal member of the board.

According to the press release, under Stewart’s leadership, Sound Community Bank has deepened its community impact through philanthropic giving, volunteerism, and partnerships, including long-standing support for organizations such as Food Lifeline and the Jamestown S’Klallam CDFI.

“Laurie’s vision and dedication to both the bank and the communities we serve are unmatched,” the Sound Community Bank Board of Directors said in a joint statement. “This recognition from the Puget Sound Business Journal is a testament to her influence, integrity, and lasting legacy as a leader.”