AFSA is commemorating Women's History Month by highlighting influential female leaders in the consumer credit industry. Tracy Sandin shared her insights and experiences from her career journey.
Reflecting on a pivotal moment in 1997, Sandin recalled earning a significant promotion after successfully opposing legislation in the California legislature. However, she faced an offer without a salary increase, which she deemed unacceptable. "The company wanted to promote me without a salary adjustment—something no male professional would have accepted," Sandin stated. She rejected the offer and challenged the male-dominated insurance industry, eventually securing a raise and later transitioning to a role where she could establish her own government relations department. Her mother gifted her a plaque that reads: "Behind every successful woman is herself." The experience taught her to "never accept the unacceptable—from others or from myself."
Sandin's early career was influenced by her mother, who served as the assistant administrator of a long-term psychiatric hospital. Her mother's dedication and high standards left a lasting impact on Sandin's work ethic. "Through her example, I gained a deep appreciation for loyalty, honesty, integrity, and an unwavering work ethic," Sandin explained.
Looking back at her career path, Sandin offered advice to her younger self about focusing less on past regrets: "My younger self spent too much time caught up in 'would’ve, could’ve, should’ve' thinking... If I could offer advice to my younger self, I’d simply say, 'Don’t sweat the small stuff.'"
March 11th, 2025