A Journey of Service, Leadership, and Dedication

Yesenia Pujols' journey of perseverance and dedication began at 17 when she joined the U.S. Army Reserves after her junior year of high school in 2000. Instead of spending her summer vacation with friends, she attended Basic Training (Boot Camp). Upon completion, she returned to finish her senior year of high school. It was during this pivotal time that the tragic events of September 11, 2001, took place.

From College to Combat: Operation Iraqi Freedom

In 2003, Yesenia was called to duty while pursuing her college education. Her unit was among the first to deploy for Operation Iraqi Freedom, forcing her to withdraw from her classes and trade college books for a wartime environment. She spent over 18 months deployed, where she met her future husband, Jonathan Pujols, a U.S. Marine.

Balancing Military Service, Education, and Career

Upon her return from Iraq, Yesenia remained in the Army Reserves while continuing her college education. During this time, she also began her career with U.S. Bank as a teller, embarking on a challenging commute from Hemet, CA, to Carlsbad—over an hour and 20 minutes each way. Despite these demands, she quickly rose to the position of Teller Supervisor, juggling her military duties, full-time work, and studies. Her Army responsibilities took her to Korea, Germany, Washington D.C., and Virginia while earning her Bachelor of Science in Health Administration.

Transition to Civilian Life and Corporate Success

Yesenia's military career flourished as she was promoted to Staff Sergeant. However, as her next deployment to the Middle East approached, she left the U.S. Army after nine years of service, pursuing a civilian career. She earned multiple service achievement medals and became a combat lifesaver in the military.



Yesenia climbed the ranks at U.S. Bank, eventually becoming an Operations Specialist in Orange County, where she managed five branches and conducted risk-based operational audits. After seven successful years at U.S. Bank, her husband's career took them to the United Arab Emirates. Yesenia took on a new challenge as a Senior Human Resources Executive for a Medical Center in Abu Dhabi. During this time, she welcomed her son, Jonathan Jr., and decided to take a step back from her career to focus on her family.

A Return to Banking and Continued Excellence

Returning to the United States, Yesenia rejoined U.S. Bank as an Assistant Branch Manager and later transitioned into wealth management. She earned her Financial Industry Regulatory Authority License and became a Wealth Management Associate in Beverly Hills, where she provided crucial support to the Wealth Management Advisor. Her exceptional performance earned her a promotion to Wealth Management Banker, a role she currently holds, where she develops and manages affluent client relationships.

Life Beyond Banking

Outside of her professional achievements, Yesenia enjoys spending quality time with her family, experimenting with new recipes, and being a dedicated soccer mom to her sons, Jonathan and Jasai. Her story is a testament to resilience, leadership, and the pursuit of excellence.