James Rykowski
About James Rykowski
James Rykowski is the Vice President of Commercial Lending and Director of Community Development at Evans Bank, with extensive experience in commercial lending and community development in the Buffalo/Niagara, New York area.
Title and Current Role
James Rykowski serves as the Vice President - Commercial Lending and Director of Community Development at Evans Bank. He has held this dual role since 2014, working in the Buffalo/Niagara, New York Area. In his capacity, he focuses on commercial lending and community development initiatives within the bank.
Previous Experience at Evans Bank
Before his current role, James Rykowski was the Manager - Consumer Lending Group and Vice President - Commercial Lending at Evans Bank from 2010 to 2014. During this period, he managed consumer lending operations and contributed to the commercial lending department in the Buffalo/Niagara, New York Area.
Past Positions in Commercial Lending
James Rykowski has extensive experience in commercial lending. He worked at First Niagara Bank as SVP, Manager - Commercial Lending from 1997 to 2007. Additionally, he served as SVP, District Manager - Commercial Real Estate at KeyBank from 1992 to 1999. Both roles were within the Buffalo/Niagara, New York Area, enhancing his expertise in commercial real estate and lending.
Educational Background
James Rykowski studied at Canisius College, where he completed Undergraduate Sociology Coursework in 1970. His education provided a foundational understanding of social structures, which has supported his community-focused initiatives in his professional career.
Community Development and Social Impact
James Rykowski has significantly contributed to community development. He played a pivotal role in increasing Evans Bank's visibility within block clubs and neighborhood groups in Buffalo. His efforts were focused on the East and West Sides of the city. He also led high-profile projects like the renovation of the Hotel Lafayette and Lafayette Presbyterian Church, highlighting his impact on community revitalization.
Expertise in Affordable Housing
James Rykowski is recognized for his knowledge in affordable housing. He has served as an expert panelist at both state and national housing conferences, discussing affordable housing and complex financing issues. His insights have helped shape housing policy and practices addressing the needs of low and moderate-income populations.
Training and Development Initiatives
James Rykowski has been involved in providing in-house training at Evans Bank. He has educated employees on the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) efforts and community development definitions, improving their understanding and compliance with these critical areas.