PORTLAND, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Umpqua Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ:UMPQ), parent company of Umpqua Bank and Strand, Atkinson, Williams and York, has appointed Peggy Fowler to its board of directors and to the bank's board. Fowler was appointed by Umpqua's board of directors for a one year term at its April 15 annual board meeting. Fowler, who most recently served as the chief executive officer for Portland General Electric (PGE), retired from the company earlier this year following eight years at the helm.

"Peggy is one of the most influential business leaders in Oregon and I am pleased to welcome her to our board of directors," said Ray Davis, president and CEO of Umpqua Holdings Corporation. "Her depth of business experience and ability to take on challenges are perfect complements to Umpqua's board. I look forward to working with Peggy and the rest of the board to further position Umpqua for growth within our industry and community."

Fowler joined PGE in 1974 and worked her way from analytical laboratory chemist to president and CEO. Throughout her tenure she managed almost every major area of the company, including customer service and delivery areas, power production, hydroelectric and substation operations, and one of PGE's largest divisions, the Gresham Division. Fowler also served as PGE's chief operating officer of distribution operations for four years.

A Pacific Northwest native, Fowler earned her bachelor's degree in chemistry and mathematics from George Fox University and completed public utility executive programs at the University of Michigan and the University of Idaho. She currently participates in various community organizations including the boards of Oregon Business Council, the Regence Group, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon, and the SOLV Founders' Circle. Additionally, she has been an ambassador for the American Heart Association's "Go Red for Women" campaign.

About Umpqua Holdings Corporation

Umpqua Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: UMPQ) is the parent company of Umpqua Bank, an Oregon-based community bank recognized for its entrepreneurial approach, innovative use of technology, and distinctive banking solutions. Umpqua Bank has 150 locations between Napa, Calif., and Bellevue, Wash., along the Oregon and Northern California Coast and in Central Oregon. Umpqua Holdings also owns a retail brokerage subsidiary Strand, Atkinson, Williams & York Inc., which has locations in Umpqua Bank stores and in dedicated offices throughout Oregon. Umpqua Bank's Private Client Services Division provides tailored financial services and products to individual customers. Umpqua Holdings Corporation is headquartered in Portland, Ore. For more information, visit www.umpquaholdingscorp.com.

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    Source: Umpqua Holdings Corporation