Fall Edition 2026
Sente Mortgage Employee Newsletter
Concierge
Have a question?
If you have questions about any of the Department Updates in this issue, please submit a ticket to: concierge@sentemortgage.com.
Corporate News
- 19 and Counting
- Listen In: Sharmee Patel on The Mortgage Banking Finance Mic
Branch News
- Peachtree City, GA: Welcome to Sente & Halloween GOAT Award
- Upper Kirby - Houston, TX: Closing by Proxy & Halloween Fun
- Cabot, AR: Award-Winning Women, Giving Back, Fall Vibes & Driverless in Austin
- New Braunfels, TX: Parades, Property Tours & Partner Events
- Austin, TX: Sente Takes the Stage at the Top Producer Panel
- Dahlonega, GA: Game-Day Pop-Bys
CORPORATE NEWS
19 and Counting
Sente turned 19 on October 16! Thank you to everyone who joined our virtual tailgate party to proudly show their team colors, take on the trivia challenge, and try their hand at designing a Sente mascot with AI. And thank you to every member of the Sente team who has helped us deliver a 5-star mortgage experience and live our values year after year.
Update your email signature
To mark the anniversary, we’ve updated the logo in our email signature. You can download the new logo here.
Listen In: Sharmee Patel on The Mortgage Banking Finance Mic
Vice President of Finance Sharmee Patel was interviewed on Loan Vision’s The Mortgage Banking Finance Mic podcast. Tune in to get to know her better!
BRANCH NEWS
News From Peachtree City, GA:
Welcome to Sente! Our Peachtree City Branch joined Sente in September. Please help us welcome Branch Manager and Mortgage Banker Brian Messer; Mortgage Bankers Justin Messer, Josh Sims, and Mark Strickert; Production Assistant Whitne Zondervan; and Loan Processor Cari Baker!
Peachtree City Branch scares up a GOAT Award. The Peachtree City team took home the GOAT Award for Best Halloween Booth at the Fayette County Board of Realtors and Women’s Council of Realtors Spooktacular Affiliate Expo on October 20. The crew dressed as “Dead Lenders and a Priest,” with the priest playing the Sente Savior.
News From Upper Kirby - Houston, TX:
Closing by proxy. When Branch Manager Milton Birdwell's Realtor partner couldn’t make it to a closing on September 22, they found a creative workaround: the Realtor sent a colleague in his place, along with a larger-than-life cutout of his face. To make it official, the team FaceTimed him in too!
Halloween fun at realtor event!
News From Cabot, AR:
Award-winning women. Stefanie Lyles and Samantha Brown were recently recognized as Top Financial Advisors by Arkansas Money & Politics. Both were also included in AY Magazine’s Intriguing Women of 2026.
Fall vibes. The branch office is dressed for the season, pumpkins and all.
Giving back. In honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September, the team helped the Augustus the Warrior Foundation raise $925 at the Warrior Mahjong Classic.
Driverless in Austin. Stefanie and Blake Lyles visited Corporate in Austin and took a ride in a Cybercab. Aside from Blake opening the door in the middle of a busy intersection and stopping the ride, it was a smooth trip!
News From New Braunfels, TX:
Front-row seats. The Comal County Fair Parade went right past the office, so the team had the best view in town!
On tour. The team joined local Realtors for property tours.
Getting ahead of appraisal changes. Sales Manager Jennifer Rodriguez and Branch Manager James Racanelli sponsored a class on upcoming appraisal changes.
Lunch with partners. Jennifer hosted a lunch for local Realtors.
Teaming up. The New Braunfels and Killeen branches met with Christy Razwick-Best of Clear Edge.
News From Austin, TX:
Sente takes the stage at the Top Producer Panel. In October, the Austin Mortgage Bankers Association hosted its annual Top Producer Panel, where four mortgage bankers and a Realtor answered questions about business building, social media strategy, AI efficiencies, and more. Regional Manager Karen Elliott, who serves as AMBA’s Education Co-Chair, moderated the panel, and Stefanie Lyles of our Cabot branch shared her wisdom and humor as one of the panelists. With several Austin-area Mortgage Bankers in the audience, Sente was well represented!
News From Dahlonega, GA:
Game-day pop-bys. The team delivered football-themed goodie bags to local agents and hosted quick Q&As.
DEPARTMENT UPDATES
Accounting
New Faces, Financial Milestones & Expense Report Tips
🎉 Help Us Welcome Jamie!
We’re excited to welcome Jamie Vaclavik to the Sente Accounting team as our new Accounting Specialist! Jamie joins us with experience in the mortgage industry, including accounts payable, payroll, and compensation. She’s already been working closely with the team to learn our systems and procedures, and we’re thrilled to have her on board. We’re confident she’ll be a fantastic addition to Sente!
📊 Behind the Numbers: Accounting Updates
The Accounting Department wrapped up our annual financial audit in September. This important milestone provides final confirmation of our fiscal year-end financial statements. Our new fiscal year began July 1, 2026, and we’re keeping things moving as we look ahead to the months to come.
Coming up in January, we’ll be preparing and filing annual 1098 and 1099 informational statements with the IRS. It’s another busy season for our team as we keep Sente’s financial reporting on track!
💡 Expense Reimbursement: A Few Tips to Keep Things Running Smoothly
Want to help us make expense reimbursements as easy and efficient as possible? Keep these best practices in mind when submitting your next expense report:
- Know the policy. Review the Sente Expense Reimbursement Policy on Ask Sente or in ADP under Resources → Forms Library before completing your report.
- Use the latest form. Always start with the most current expense report template, available on Ask Sente and in the ADP Resources → Forms Library.
- Mind the deadline. Expenses must be submitted within 120 days to be considered for reimbursement.
- Get approval first. Remember to obtain your manager’s approval before incurring expenses.
- Send everything together. Email your saved Excel expense report and PDF copies of all receipts to accounting@sentemortgage.com.
A little preparation goes a long way! Following these steps helps keep the reimbursement process smooth and ensures our Accounting team has everything needed to process your report.
Closing
Two Quick Reminders
Help us keep every closing on schedule:
- After a CD is released on a file: Complete a Closing Touch to update the close date.
- If a CD is released while title documents or insurance are still pending: Upload the outstanding documents no later than 24 hours before closing.
Following these steps gives our team time to prepare the closing package and keeps closing day stress-free for your borrowers.
Compliance
Reminder: 2026 Annual Compliance Training Is Due November 30
Sente is required to complete annual Compliance training to conduct business and remain compliant. All Sente employees, except those hired within the last 90 days, must complete this training each year and have been enrolled in our 2026 Annual Compliance Training.
To access the training, sign in to OnCourse with your login credentials. As a reminder, your username is your email. Please reach out to Concierge if you have any questions for Compliance or need help accessing the training.
Please make sure to complete the required training by November 30, 2026. If the training is not completed by then, your system access will be disabled until it is. Compliance will follow up with all employees who have not completed the required training.
Concierge
Automation, Easier Searching, and Training on Request
nCino continues to add new features to the borrower experience. At the time of application, 83% of our borrowers engage with our VOA and VOIE automation. This streamlines the documentation needed and minimizes their need to send pay stubs, W-2s, and asset information. If they have issues, they can skip that feature, and you can still request documents through Encompass. We are hearing great success stories and seeing strong borrower engagement.
Concierge recently did a full review of Ask Sente based on your feedback and enhanced the search fields to ensure you can easily find information. As a reminder, if you cannot locate a specific article, simply send an email to Concierge and we can provide assistance. We always welcome feedback and ideas to enhance the knowledge articles, so please share your comments, ideas, or recommendations with us.
We will continue to offer custom training on systems, applications, programs, and products. What would you like more training on? Send in your recommendations!
A special shoutout to Lisa Curry on her 19th Sente anniversary!
Human Resources
Welcome to the New EAP Wellness Portal
Your digital gateway to well-being
Mutual of Omaha’s new Wellness Portal makes it easier than ever for you and your eligible family members to connect with Employee Assistance Program (EAP) resources and support. Through a single portal, you can access tools and information designed to help navigate life’s challenges and support overall well-being.
Whether you’re looking for emotional well-being resources, work-life support, financial and legal information, or EAP services, Mutual of Omaha’s Wellness Portal provides convenient access anytime, anywhere. The EAP includes resources focused on emotional well-being, health and safety, family and relationships, work and life transitions, and legal and financial topics.
How to access the Wellness Portal
Important: Before registering for the Wellness Portal, be sure you have Sente’s Group Number, found on the flyer linked below. You will need it to create your account and access available EAP resources.
Getting started is simple:
- Visit the Mutual of Omaha EAP website.
- Click the Login to the Wellness Portal button.
- If this is your first visit, select Sign Up at the bottom of the page.
- Enter Sente’s Group Number.
- Complete the registration and identity verification process.
- Log in and explore the available resources and services.
Returning users can sign in using their existing username and password. Note: There will be a multifactor authentication process each time you log in.
What you’ll need
- Assigned Group Number
- A valid email address
- Access to a device with internet connectivity
- The ability to receive a verification code if multifactor authentication is required
Need help?
If you have questions about accessing the Wellness Portal, locating the Group Number, or using available resources, contact the EAP support team at 800-316-2796 or reach out to HR for additional information regarding eligibility and enrollment.
IT
Take Two Minutes to Check Your Security Settings
Your password is the first lock on your account. The approval prompt on your phone is the second. It keeps people out even if they steal your password, but only if your phone info is up to date.
Check your settings in 3 quick steps
- Go to mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info and sign in with your Sente email.
- Look at the list. Is that still your phone? Your number? Anything old or wrong?
- Fix it. Click + Add sign-in method to add something new, or Delete to remove an old phone or number.
Quick tips
- Use the Microsoft Authenticator app. It’s free and the safest option. Make it your main choice by clicking Change next to “Default sign-in method.”
- Keep two options on file, like the app and your cell number, so you’re never locked out.
- Getting a new phone? Set up the app on the new phone before you trade in the old one.
Two rules to never break
- Didn’t try to sign in? Tap Deny. Then tell IT. Scammers send prompts over and over, hoping you’ll tap Approve just to make them stop.
- Never share a code. Not even with someone who says they’re from IT or Microsoft. We will never ask.
About your computer PIN
Signing in to your PC with a PIN is safer than typing your password over and over. You can set one up under Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Pick a PIN you’ll remember. IT can’t look it up or reset it for you.
- Skip fingerprint and face sign-in. They often fail after small changes, like new glasses or a haircut.
Need help?
Lost your phone, locked out, or just want someone to walk you through it? Contact IT. We’re happy to help, and two minutes now can save you a lot of trouble later.
Marketing
Marketing Made Simple: Sente Moves to Canva
We’re moving our marketing materials library (Design Center) to Canva Enterprise, one of the most widely used design platforms in the world. Many of you already have experience with Canva! It’s simple and visual: drag, drop, customize.
You no longer have access to Design Center. But Marketing has downloaded and saved all materials that were housed there. If you need a specific template or design, submit a ticket to Marketing.
Key highlights:
- Easier searching. Type “FHA,” and you’ll see FHA flyers. Finding the right piece should take seconds.
- Templates ready to go. Find dozens of on-demand, compliance-approved materials.
- Create your own. Design your own pieces in Canva and submit them for compliance approval.
- Use with confidence. All marketing materials will continue to be reviewed and approved for compliance with industry regulations.
How the rollout works
The pilot launch is underway. From there, we’ll roll out the platform in phases, so we can fix any issues before everyone moves over. Marketing will contact you with login instructions and training details before your phase begins. If you need materials in the meantime, please submit a ticket to Marketing.
We’re excited about this change and are confident it will make your marketing faster and easier so you can focus on your borrowers and referral partners.
SENTE SPOTLIGHTS
MEET THE TEAM
Get to know two team members!
Q: How long have you been at Sente?
A: It will be 6 years in January. Hard to believe how quickly the time has flown!
Q: Where are you located?
A: Manassas, Virginia
Q: Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in compliance?
A: I’ve always been someone who pays attention to the little details and enjoys figuring things out. Compliance allows me to use those strengths while continuing to learn every day. I love knowing that the work we do helps protect both our borrowers and Sente.
Q: What is your favorite thing about Sente?
A: Definitely the people and the culture. I’ve had the opportunity to work with some amazing individuals over the years. I appreciate being part of a company where we can learn from each other and support one another.
Q: Which Sente Value do you reflect on as the most important?
A: Always Do the Right Thing. It’s simple but says a lot. I believe doing the right thing and treating people with kindness go a long way.
Q: How would you describe your job to a group of 5-year-olds?
A: I’m part of a team that helps families buy their dream homes! Since houses cost a lot more than what’s in most people’s piggy banks, families sometimes need to borrow money to buy one. That’s where we come in. I work behind the scenes making sure important details are just right so families can get the keys to their new home!
Q: What is your favorite thing about your job?
A: I love that no two days are exactly alike! There’s always something new to learn, and I enjoy finding solutions. I especially love being able to help when someone comes to me with a question. It makes my day knowing I could help.
Q: Do you have any pets? If so, what type and what are their names?
A: I have a cat named Kitty who has quite a personality. She loves walking on the treadmill while watching TV.
Q: Where is your favorite place to vacation?
A: A cruise to the Bahamas. There’s nothing better than being out on the ocean with the beautiful blue water, sunshine, and palm trees.
Q: What activities or hobbies do you have outside of work?
A: Spending time with my husband and kids, going on walks, and cheering on my Pittsburgh Steelers! I also love traveling and making memories with my family.
Q: How long have you been at Sente?
A: 3 years in December
Q: Where are you located?
A: Early Branch, South Carolina
Q: Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in mortgage?
A: I previously worked as a lender financing a variety of loan products. Nothing else compares to helping people achieve their dream of homeownership. That passion motivated me to pursue a role focused exclusively on mortgage lending.
Q: What is your favorite thing about Sente?
A: The willingness of all departments to work together for our common goal.
Q: Which Sente Value do you reflect on as the most important?
A: Always Do the Right Thing
Q: How would you describe your job to a group of 5-year-olds?
A: I help people buy a house by reviewing paperwork they give me.
Q: What is your favorite thing about your job?
A: Loan processing is like putting a puzzle together. At first, you have hundreds of individual pieces, and it can be difficult to see how they all fit together. As each piece falls into place, the bigger picture begins to emerge. I find great satisfaction in bringing all the details of a loan file together to demonstrate the borrower’s ability to qualify for financing and help turn their dream into reality.
Q: Do you have any pets? If so, what type and what are their names?
A: I have two rescue dogs. Foxxy is a Boxer mix and Bailey is a Yorkie mix.
Q: Where is your favorite place to vacation?
A: Bora Bora
Q: What activities or hobbies do you have outside of work?
A: I love chess, fishing, traveling, and Gamecock football.
WELCOME, NEW HIRES!
New Hires:
Ashley Sibrans, Loan Processor, Upper Kirby - Houston
Brian Messer, Branch Manager/Mortgage Banker, Peachtree City, GA
Justin Messer, Mortgage Banker, Peachtree City, GA
Josh Sims, Mortgage Banker, Peachtree City, GA
Mark Strickert, Mortgage Banker, Peachtree City, GA
Whitne Zondervan, Production Assistant, Peachtree City, GA
Cari Baker, Loan Processor, Peachtree City, GA
Jamie Vaclavik, Accounting Specialist, Corporate
Adria Stoner, Accounting Manager, Corporate
HAPPY SENTE-VERSARY!
Q4 ANNIVERSARIES
Tom Rhodes, CEO: October 16
Kristin Carroll, Mortgage Banker: October 16
James Racanelli, Branch Manager/Mortgage Banker: October 16
Sandy De La Fuente, Senior Loan Processor: October 16
Lisa Curry, Strategic Systems Manager: October 16
Karen Elliott, Regional Manager/Mortgage Banker: October 1
Liz Saenz, Servicing & Post Closing Support: December 5
Laura Comstock, Director of Branch Success: December 1
Candice Young, Director of Compliance: December 1
Eric Zanotelli, Branch Manager/Mortgage Banker: November 10
Joseph Prater, Production Assistant: November 10
Samantha Brown, Mortgage Banker: November 1
Shelly Powell, Mortgage Banker: November 6
Travis Howard, Branch Operations Manager: November 16
Cole Hall, Mortgage Banker: November 17
Sara Hall, Production Assistant: November 30
Jarrett Hodson, Branch Manager/Mortgage Banker: December 4
Eric Housley, BK Department Manager: December 4
Mick Jewell, Mortgage Banker: December 4
Yulia Krumova, Production Assistant: December 4
Natalie Moon, Loan Processor: December 4
Jason Rosenthal, Mortgage Banker: December 4
Austin Wright, Mortgage Banker: December 4
LaShaon Parr, Closing Disclosure Desk Specialist: November 5
Robben Moore, Senior Director of Mortgage Operations: December 9
Robert Humes, Production Partner: December 2