Trust Services

Cheryl is a banking professional with a career spanning over 29 years, 24 of which have been dedicated to trust administration, personal trust, and trust operations. She joined Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. in 2005 and has since made significant contributions to the organization.

As part of her role, Cheryl holds responsibility for the administration of Personal trust relationships and actively engages in Personal Trust business development. She is passionate about helping clients maintain their desired quality of life, as permitted by the Trust Document. Cheryl specializes in working with personal trust clients facing unique circumstances, including special needs children or adults, individuals struggling with addiction who require assistance managing finances, and elderly clients in need of household oversight and bill payment. Through her work, Cheryl finds fulfillment in enhancing people's living situations, providing them with security, comfort, and happiness.

Cheryl's expertise and dedication have not gone unnoticed. She is a graduate of the Southern Trust School, further enhancing her knowledge and skill set in the field. In 2019, Cheryl was for the Money Makers Award, a recognition by City Business that celebrates professionals for their financial achievements and community impact. City Business published an article highlighting Cheryl's exceptional service and the positive influence she has had on individuals within the community. Moreover, Cheryl was also named the Top Retail Business Partner for Trust in both 2018 and 2019.

Cheryl remains deeply involved in the New Orleans community as well. She actively serves on the St. Mary Magdalen Finance Board and Fair Committee. Additionally, Cheryl is a member of the Kenner Business Association and the New Orleans Estate Planning Council. Currently, she serves as the chair for fundraising efforts in Krewes for Karnival's First Responders. Cheryl has also participated in the Krewe of King Arthur and the Mystic Order of Phoenix.

In her free time, Cheryl takes pleasure in attending events such as Jazz Fest, Mardi Gras, and Saints Games. She enjoys antiquing and opportunities to entertain friends and family. She also likes a good beach vacation.

Suzanne is an experienced professional with over 23 years of experience in personal trust administration. She joined Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. in 2007, bringing her extensive expertise to the organization.

Suzanne is responsible for administering personal trust client relationships, as well as managing Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Her attention to detail and in-depth knowledge of trust administration ensure that clients' needs are met with the utmost care and professionalism.

Suzanne's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science Degree from Southeastern Louisiana University. Additionally, she received her degree from the Cannon Trust School, furthering her knowledge in personal trust management. 

Prior to Gulf Coast Bank and Trust, Suzanne worked at Regions Bank where she was recognized as an Outstanding Employee that embodies the Values of the Company in 2006. During a merger with AmSouth, she, along with 7 others, were selected out of 100’s of employees from both companies to represent the brand of a new company. 

As a New Orleans native, Suzanne is committed to her local community. She served as an Executive Board member of the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School at Divine Mercy Parish and participated as a member of the Parents Coordination Committee for Brother Martin High School as well as the Archbishop Chapelle Parents Club. Suzanne received the Volunteer of the Year Award from St Elizabeth Ann Seton School Parent Association in 2018. She has previously served as a Girl Scout Leader as well, nurturing young minds and fostering personal growth. Additionally, she has been a member of the New Orleans Estate Planning Council. 

Presently, Suzanne serves on the executive board as treasurer-elect of the Kenner Business Association. Suzanne also serves on the executive board as treasurer of the New Orleans Saints Cheerleader Alumni Association. Both organizations raise money and facilitate volunteer opportunities in the New Orleans community

During her free time, Suzanne enjoys watching LSU and Saints Games, reading, photography and especially family time with her husband and children. She also appreciates relaxing on the beach.

Nicholas is a banking professional who started his journey at Gulf Coast Bank in 2023. With a solid foundation in life insurance and employee benefits, Nicholas brings a wealth of knowledge to his role as Trust Administrator.

In his capacity, Nicholas is responsible for customizing qualified retirement plan designs and implementation procedures, benefit payments, as well as tax reporting.

Beyond the paperwork, Nicholas is committed to the well-being of employees, conducting on-site enrollment and education sessions to empower individuals with the knowledge to make sound financial decisions. Nicholas' background in employee benefit solutions positions him as a trusted guide for other employees.

Before joining Gulf Coast Bank, Nicholas honed his skills as an independent life insurance agent with New York Life, gaining two years of valuable experience. Academically, Nicholas pursued his passion for business administration, studying for two years at Louisiana State University.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Nicholas enjoys a balanced life. He spends his free time playing golf and basketball, and cherishing quality time with the newest addition to his family, Nora, while also spending weekends improving his home.

A new addition to the Gulf Coast Bank Trust Department is Kelsie Mengel. Kelsie recently joined in May of 2026. She is a graduate of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance.

Kelsie comes from a local CPA firm where she gained experience in public accounting while developing her skills in financial analysis, client services, and building strong professional relationships.

Kelsie’s role will entail support to trust administrators and management with day to day operations and client support.

Kelsie enjoys traveling abroad and going for long walks along the lake with her dog. 

Jacob is a motivated banking professional who joined Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. in March 2026 as a Trust Associate within the Institutional Trust division. Prior to this role, he began his career with the bank as a Wealth Management Intern in January 2026, where he gained hands-on experience supporting client services and trust operations.

In his current role, Jacob is responsible for maintaining client records, opening and closing accounts on the Global Wealth platform, and assisting with daily trust operations. His duties include processing invoices, deposits, and disbursements, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in meeting client needs. Known for his positive attitude, strong work ethic, and problem-solving abilities, Jacob is committed to supporting both his team and clients with a high level of service.

Jacob earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Louisiana Tech University in November 2025. His academic background, combined with his leadership skills and attention to detail, allows him to contribute effectively to the continued success of the Trust Department.

A lifelong resident of the Northshore, Jacob is actively involved in his community in Mandeville. He serves at his church on the worship team and participates in youth and young adult ministry, where he enjoys mentoring and building relationships.

In his free time, Jacob enjoys playing disc golf and bass guitar, often spending time outdoors or making music with others.

Nicole is a banking professional with a career spanning 17 years, specializing in trust operations. She joined Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. in 2006 as a Trust Operations Assistant transitioned to her position Trust Operations Manager in January 2013.

In her role, Nicole oversees the day-to-day operations of the Trust Accounting System. She manages various critical tasks, including the daily reconciliation of major client Trust-related Demand Deposit Accounts (DDAs), filing state and federal tax returns, and maintaining and balancing Trust Suspense Accounts. Nicole's attention to detail and organizational skills enables her to excel in balancing and organizing complex data, providing invaluable support to the Trust department.

Nicole stays involved in the community through volunteer efforts such as Habitat for Humanity, often accompanied by her daughter. Additionally, Nicole dedicates her time to assisting less fortunate families with school supplies and Christmas gifts through her involvement with the Knights of Columbus in Mandeville, LA. 

During her free time, Nicole cherishes time with her family and friends and enjoys vacationing on the beach.

Brandy is a banking professional with over 18 years of experience. She joined Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. in 2021 and has previous experience in Retail Operations.

In 2022, Brandy transitioned to the Trust team, where she plays a pivotal role in serving the Trust Department Administrators and their affiliate Investment Partners. As part of her responsibilities, she assists the Operations Manager in the day-to-day operations of the Trust Accounting System and report reconciliation. Brandy's attention to detail, coupled with her extensive banking background, greatly supports the smooth functioning of crucial Trust operations.

Brandy's attended University of New Orleans. Prior to joining Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co., she held the position of operations manager at the Gulf Coast Veterans Branch, focusing on retail banking. During her seven years with First NBC Bank, Brandy served as an assistant branch manager and a branch manager, followed by her three years as an assistant branch manager at Hancock Whitney Bank.

As a New Orleans native, Brandy actively engages in community involvement. She is a member of the Parent Club at Lake Castle Elementary School, contributing her time and effort to various school fundraisers throughout the year. Brandy also volunteers for charitable initiatives such as Coats for Kids and Toys for Tots.

In her free time, Brandy spends quality time with her family and friends, and enjoys cooking and gardening.

Alfred has over 48 years of experience in the Trust and Employee Benefits industry. He began his career at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. in 2002 and has since played a vital role in the success and growth of the institution.

As manager of the Trust Department, Alfred is responsible for overseeing administration, operations, and business development functions. With a focus on Institutional Trust, he specializes in plan design, implementation, and administration, as well as the investment options that impact these plans. Alfred's extensive expertise enables him to guide individuals in making prudent decisions for their financial and retirement future.

Alfred earned his B.A. Degree from Alcorn State University and holds a Series 6 License, along with a Life, Health, and Variable Annuity License. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was honored with the Trust Department Top Retail Business Partner Award in both 2021 and 2022. Over the past two decades, Alfred has spearheaded the growth of the Trust Department, successfully increasing Trust assets from $50M to an impressive $955M to-date.

Prior to his tenure at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co., Alfred served as Manager of Employee Benefits, Plan Administrator, and Retirement Plan Trustee for a prominent local transportation company. He also held the position of Retirement Administrator and Institutional Trust Sales Representative at Hibernia Bank, where he achieved recognition as the "Top Business Development" producer for two consecutive years.

Alfred stays active in the New Orleans community on many levels. He currently serves as a board member of the New Orleans Chamber and previously held the position of President at the New Orleans Association of Employee Benefit Planners (AEBP). In 2009, he graduated from the Bryan Bell Metropolitan Leadership Forum. Alfred is a member of the Good Providers Social Club and is a member of the Rho Phi Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

In his free time, Alfred enjoys playing golf, tending to his garden, and going fishing. He also cherishes quality time spent grilling with loved ones during the weekends.