Linda Bowden
Bank executive; business leader
Born: Jersey City, New Jersey
New Jersey Hall of Fame, Class of 2019-20: Enterprise

“I am a Jersey girl to the core,” says Linda Bowden. “It’s something I’m very proud of.” Indeed, Bowden traces her Jersey roots back to several of her great-great-grandparents.

Bowden began her career as a teacher for seven years in Wyckoff. She also wrote two children’s math books. Moving into banking, she joined Wachovia Bank in 1991. She served there for 16 years, rising to wealth managing director.

In 2009, Bowden joined PNC Bank as New Jersey regional president, a position she held until her retirement in 2021. During her tenure, Bowden consistently led her market to double-digit growth, making it one of PNC’s top-performing regions. She has received recognition among the “25 Women to Watch” by US Banker magazine, and appeared on the NJBIZ newspaper’s “Best 50 Women in Business” and “Power 100” lists.

Beyond her skills as a banker, Bowden is celebrated for her community involvement and her bright and supportive spirit. “She is just the kindest person I’ve ever known,” fellow businesswoman Sally Glick told ROI in 2020. “She’s just a shining star.”

Bowden was elected chair of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors in 2019; she had previously served for two years as the board’s first vice chair and had been board member since 2009.

Additionally, Bowden has served on the board of the Drumthwacket Foundation and the executive committees of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra and Choose New Jersey. She also has seats on various boards at Jersey Central Power & Light; Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine; the New Jersey Performing Arts Center; and Fairleigh Dickinson University.