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SPOKANE, Wash.--([ BUSINESS WIRE ])--Carol Mangan, Oregon market president for [ Sterling Bank ], a subsidiary of [ Sterling Financial Corporation ] (NASDAQ:STSA), was recognized by the Portland Business Journal as part of the 2012 Women of Influence program.

"It is an honor to be part of this wonderful and diverse group of women"

Twenty-five women were selected out of 200 nominees to receive the Orchid Award. The award acknowledges women who have made significant accomplishments in business and provide outstanding service to the community.

aIt is an honor to be part of this wonderful and diverse group of women,a Mangan said. aSterling has deep roots in Oregon and a strong commitment to helping our communities prosper. I am thankful that my job affords me the opportunity to build strong relationships, provide essential banking services and support the needs of the community.a

The recipients were honored April 25, 2012 at a luncheon in Portland.

About Sterling Bank

[ Sterling Savings Bank ], the principal operating subsidiary of Sterling Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:STSA) of Spokane, Washington, is a Washington state chartered and federally insured commercial bank. Sterling Savings Bank does business as [ Sterling Bank ], First Independent Bank and [ Sonoma Bank ] (in California). Sterling offers banking products and services, mortgage lending, and trust and investment products to individuals, small businesses, corporations and other commercial organizations. As of March 31, 2012, Sterling had assets of $9.5 billion and operated 189 depository branches in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and California. Visit Sterlingas website at [ www.bankwithsterling.com ].