Meridian Blog

Hi, I’m Joanne Hilliard. Welcome, I’m glad you’re here.

I’m the Client Service Associate at Meridian, celebrating my first anniversary today! Chances are, if you have ever called the Meridian offices or walked into our Warrenton office, we’ve chatted.

As part of the Operations team, I support our firm by responding to existing client requests, onboarding new clients and creating an overall welcoming and valued atmosphere for everyone who walks in the front door. Earlier this year, I earned my certification as a Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional (FPQP), which gives me a greater depth of financial knowledge and allows me to provide greater support to our clients.

I’ve spent most of my career in the financial world, and along the way, I’ve picked up some pretty meaningful experiences.

I spent 14 years in the banking industry, working my way up to Vice President and leading both sales and operations teams. At the peak of that chapter, I managed the Regional Operations Team that supported 96 banking branches—definitely a whirlwind, but one I’m proud of.

After that, I shifted gears and spent the next 11 years as a mortgage loan officer. One of the most rewarding parts of that role was being able to give back—I’ve returned nearly $200,000 of my commissions to local heroes (like teachers, first responders, and veterans) who trusted me with their home financing.

It’s been a journey filled with numbers, people, and purpose—and I wouldn’t have it any other way. That said, though, the stress and burnout, were real, and early in 2024, I felt called to take a step back and explore a change of pace. After hearing about the opportunity to work for Meridian from a friend-of-a-friend – I decided to take the plunge and I embarked on this new journey.

My passion for customer service has never waivered. In much the same way that educating potential home buyers was a favorite part of my job in the mortgage business, I love engaging with Meridian’s clients to identify what kind of help they might need and pointing them to the right resolution. Always with a smile, of course.

When I’m not helping clients at Meridian, you can find me practicing Yin Yoga, exploring new coffee shops around town with my husband, Chad (who I’ve been lucky enough to call my partner for 15 years), or snuggling with our 13-year-old toy poodle, Emma.

I also love quiet mornings or evenings on our deck, and waterfront dinners when we’re on vacation. Nature always brings me peace, and the older I get, the more I cherish those calm, simple moments. As a native of the Pittsburgh area, we like to travel back when we can to catch a Pirates baseball game or Steelers football game, and to see my family.

Family is everything to me! I have four wonderful older sisters, a truly amazing Aunt, and the kindest in-laws anyone could ask for. I’m beyond grateful for their love and support.

5 Things About Joanne

Without further ado, here’s the “tea” on me – 5 fun things to know about me.

What are your favorite hobbies?

I find peace and tranquility in my Yin Yoga practice, which I try to do at least three times every week. I feel more grounded when I am on my yoga mat prioritizing my well-being. I hope to one day be able to share this passion with others by getting certified to teach.

What is your favorite book/movie?

I am a huge fan of the book “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne. I love that the book highlights the vital role our thoughts have on the outcomes in life – basically you can create the life you want by shifting your mindset. I guess it is the Psychology major in me that is fascinated by this.

What was your first job?

My first job was packing orders and working the front end at a bakery in my hometown of Beaver Falls, PA. I loved working there! Perhaps this led to my life-long obsession with sweets.

What are your bucket list vacation spots?

Northern Lights in Iceland, followed by anywhere in Italy and Spain.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

My Dad always said that “things are never too good nor too bad for too long.” I’ve carried this advice with me all these years – most things are temporary and keeping that perspective has helped me remain resilient in tough times.