Caldwell Trust Company Celebrates Sonya Kristie's 20 Years of Service

Caldwell Trust Company, a Florida-based independent trust company with more than three decades of experience in fiduciary services and wealth management, proudly announces the 20th anniversary of Sonya Kristie, Senior Vice President and Trust Officer - a milestone that reflects her dedication, growth, and invaluable contributions to the firm. Sonya will officially mark her anniversary on May 1st, celebrating two decades since joining the company as its very first intern.

Sonya’s journey with Caldwell Trust Company began in 2003 when she started as an intern in the Venice office while pursuing her bachelor's degree and working in the local hospitality industry. Driven by her ambition to build a career in finance, she enrolled at the University of South Florida as a junior. After earning her B.S. in Finance in 2005, she completed her internship in the Sarasota office under the mentorship of Jan Miller, now Senior Executive Vice President and Trust Officer. This pivotal experience led to her transition into a full-time role that same year.

Over the years, Sonya advanced through a series of roles - from intern to Vice President, Trust Officer, and eventually Manager of the Sarasota office and staff. Her commitment to professional growth remained constant. In 2018, encouraged by R.G. “Kelly” Caldwell Jr., she pursued the Juris Master program offered by Florida State University and the Florida Bankers Association.

Accepted into FSU in 2019, Sonya balanced rigorous coursework with her full-time responsibilities at Caldwell and continued her active involvement in the community. She earned her Juris Master’s degree at Florida State University on July 31, 2021.

Today, as Senior Vice President and Trust Officer, Sonya is entrusted with the day-to-day administration of trusts and serves as a trusted wealth manager for trusts, IRAs, estates, and investment management relationships. She provides clients with comprehensive guidance in budgeting, estate planning, investments, taxes, and legal matters, collaborating closely with their accountants and attorneys.

Sonya’s professional development includes completing the Florida Bankers Association’s Florida Graduate Trust School programs, where she specializes in fiduciary income tax, probate practice, and special needs trusts. She is also a graduate of Engage Sarasota and Leadership Sarasota County, programs sponsored by the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce.

“Sonya’s 20-year journey with Caldwell Trust Company is a remarkable story of dedication, hard work, and continuous growth,” said R. G. “Kelly” Caldwell Jr. “Starting as our first intern, she has consistently exceeded expectations and has become an integral leader within our firm. Her commitment to our clients and the community is truly commendable. We are incredibly proud to celebrate this significant milestone with her.”

Reflecting on her 20-year anniversary, Sonya Kristie shared, “Caldwell Trust Company has been more than just a workplace; it’s been a family and a place where I’ve had incredible opportunities to learn and grow. I’m truly grateful for the support and mentorship I’ve received over the years, especially from Kelly and Jan. It’s been an honor to serve our clients and be a part of this exceptional team, and I look forward to many more years of contributing to the company’s success and serving our community.”

Beyond her professional achievements, Sonya is deeply engaged in her community. She serves on the board and is an active K9 Handler for Sarasota K9 Search & Rescue, contributing to the vital work of assisting law enforcement in locating missing persons. Additionally, she is a valued member of the Southwest Florida Estate Planning Council and the Florida Bankers Association.

Caldwell Trust Company congratulates Sonya Kristie on this significant milestone and expresses its sincere appreciation for her exemplary service.

To contact Sonya Kristie, please email sonya@ctrust.com or call 941-926-9336.

To learn more about Caldwell Trust Company, visit www.ctrust.com or email info@ctrust.com.

About Caldwell Trust Company