MEET
OUR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BANKERS

Nikita Cummings has over 15 years of invaluable experience in the banking industry, showcasing her talent and dedication since starting as a Business Acquisition Manager in 2022 at Blue Foundry Bank. Now excelling in her role as a dynamic Business Development Officer, Nikita thrives on collaborating with Business Owners to foster their growth and secure the lasting legacy of their enterprises for themselves, their employees, and their families. She takes great pride in delivering exceptional personal service.

Nikita's unwavering passion for the Bank stems from its unwavering commitment to driving economic development in the communities it serves. By offering unparalleled financial products with a personal touch that sets them apart, Nikita ensures that clients never lose sight of their ultimate financial goals. Nikita holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Rutgers University. She is a member of the Township of Union Rotary Club and the Business Select Service BNI Chapter of Westfield. Beyond her professional endeavors, Nikita finds joy in spending quality time with loved ones, exploring new destinations through travel, immersing herself in cultural experiences at museums, honing her culinary skills through cooking, and nurturing her green thumb in the garden.

I bring over 20 years of experience in the banking industry, specializing in business development, office management, and community engagement. As a Business Development Banker at Blue Foundry Bank, I’m passionate about helping businesses grow and thrive, driving economic success, and making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.

Before joining Blue Foundry Bank, I spent four years as an Associate Group Director at Signature Bank in Manhattan, where I focused on building strong client relationships and driving business growth. Prior to that, I held leadership roles at several banks across New Jersey and New York, consistently achieving results in expanding business portfolios and fostering connections within local communities.

What excites me most about Blue Foundry Bank is its dedication to community involvement, innovative use of technology, and forward-thinking vision. These qualities inspire me to contribute to its mission of creating meaningful change for both businesses and the community.

I’m an active member of the Latino Chamber of New Jersey and the Gateway Chamber of Commerce, and I remain involved in Pequannock Soccer, where I coached a travel team for several years and continue to support an annual home game, as my son is a varsity player. I hold an NMLS certification and a high school diploma, and I value the opportunities I’ve had to blend professional achievements with community engagement and family life.

Jalessa Barnes brings over 18 years of experience in the banking industry and currently serves as a Business Development Officer at Blue Foundry Bank. In this role, she partners exclusively with businesses, focusing on strategic growth initiatives, relationship development, and delivering tailored financial solutions that support long-term success. Jalessa joined Blue Foundry Bank in 2023 as a Business Acquisition Manager, where she played a pivotal role in driving branch performance through sales leadership, operational excellence, and a strong commitment to client experience. Most notably, she successfully opened and led a De novo location in Dunellen, achieving strong growth and establishing a meaningful presence within the local business community. Prior to joining Blue Foundry Bank, Jalessa spent 10 years with Valley Bank and 5 years with Kearny Bank as a Branch Manager, where she built a strong foundation in leadership, team development, and relationship-based banking. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her ability to cultivate trust, develop high-performing teams, and create lasting partnerships with clients and internal stakeholders. Jalessa is deeply aligned with Blue Foundry Bank’s commitment to flexibility, innovation, and continuous improvement—values that mirror her own approach to leadership and business development. She is an active member of the Dunellen/Green Brook Rotary Club and is also involved with Downtown Dunellen Management, where she supports initiatives that strengthen and promote the local business community. Outside of the office, Jalessa brings the same creativity, energy, and attention to detail to curating memorable experiences—celebrating milestones, bringing visions to life through event design, and embracing new chapters with her husband, whom she married in 2025, and her family. That passion for connection and execution is reflected in every professional relationship she builds.