Making Waves

"I grew up hearing two phrases from my mother: 'Everything happens for a reason' and 'the worst they can say is no,'" says Mark Gonzalez, who at 28 is one of the youngest vice presidents for JP Morgan Private Bank.

The son of Cuban immigrants, the 1995 Barron Collier High School graduate attended Duke University and earned a public policy studies degree. "I initially intended to become a pediatrician," he says. "Instead, I was drawn to public policy, with a focus on leadership studies."

After Duke, Gonzalez moved to New York City, where he worked for JP Morgan's investment banking division. In November 2003, when a position opened up at JP Morgan Private Bank in Naples, Gonzalez jumped at the chance. "I was looking to return to my roots and my family," he says.

Gonzalez develops new business and manages client relationships. "I am the equivalent of a quarterback for an integrated team of colleagues," he says. "I ensure the appropriate people are at the table to address specific client needs."

When asked about his strategy for success, Gonzalez answers, "I try to differentiate myself through the depth of the banker-family relationship. The more questions I ask, the deeper the understanding I have and the more value our team can add."

Gonzalez's commitment extends beyond his clients. A 2005 graduate of Leadership Collier, he is involved with Habitat for Humanity and is on the board of directors for the United Arts Council of Collier County.

"Mark provides unique insight," says United Arts Council executive director Elaine Hamilton. "He understands the importance of the arts to our community. I wish we could clone him."

-Lauren Bernaldo