Melanie Dressel named one of American Banker's Most Powerful Women in Banking

TACOMA, Wash., Sept. 22, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Melanie J. Dressel, President and Chief Executive Officer of Columbia Banking System, Inc. and Columbia Bank (NASDAQ: COLB), has been named one of the Most Powerful Women in Banking for 2014 by American Banker Magazine. Ms. Dressel ranked 15^th in the annual list, which evaluates each candidate on her impact at her company, on the industry and in the community, leadership skills in the face of professional challenges and qualities such as innovation.

"American Banker honored Melanie Dressel as one of The Most Powerful Women in Banking for her leadership in the industry, contributions to her community and superior management skills in the face of business challenges," said American Banker Magazine Executive Editor Bonnie McGeer. The complete ranking will be featured in the October issue of American Banker Magazine, which can be viewed at http://www.americanbanker.com/women-in-banking.

Melanie Dressel commented, "I am honored to receive this prestigious award. Any success I have achieved has been a direct result of those with whom I surround myself. I am so privileged to have the opportunity to lead our wonderful company, and I am equally privileged to be a part of the banking industry."

About Columbia

Headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, Columbia Banking System, Inc. is the holding Company of Columbia State Bank, a Washington state-chartered full-service commercial bank, with 76 branches in Washington and 59 in Oregon. For the eighth consecutive year, the bank was named in 2014 as one of Puget Sound Business Journal's "Washington's Best Workplaces."

More information about Columbia can be found on its website at www.columbiabank.com.

About the Most Powerful Women in Banking and Finance

The Most Powerful Women in Banking and Finance recognizes the professional achievements, personal tenacity and overall influence of the industry's top-performing female executives. The program encompasses four lists: the 25 Most Powerful Women in Banking, the 25 Most Powerful Women in Finance, the 25 Women to Watch, and the Top Banking Teams. The rankings are available in their entirety at AmericanBanker.com/women-in-banking. The first list of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Banking appeared in 2003.

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SOURCE Columbia Banking System, Inc.