Peoples Security Bank & Trust Expands Mortgage Team in Luzerne County

October 7, 2025 | Moosic, PA – Peoples Security Bank & Trust Company (PSBT) announced the addition of two experienced mortgage loan originators to its Luzerne County market. Rose Mahler has joined as Mortgage Loan Originator/Team Leader, and Ellen Leighton has joined as Vice President, Mortgage Loan Originator.

“Adding Rose and Ellen to our Luzerne County mortgage team strengthens our ability to meet the growing home financing needs in the region,” said Jerry Champi, CEO. “Their experience and customer-first approach will help more people in our community achieve their homeownership goals.”

About Rose Mahler

Mahler has more than 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry. She specializes in Conventional, FHA, VA, Rural Housing, and First-Time Homebuyer programs, while also leading and mentoring a team of loan originators to ensure compliance and customer satisfaction.

Before joining PSBT, Mahler served as Mortgage Originator/Regional Sales Manager at Luzerne Bank and previously worked at Northwest Bank. She began her career at MGE Mortgage. Mahler earned a Bachelor of Science degree from King’s College and has been recognized with the PHFA Originator Award for her outstanding work in affordable housing lending.

She has also been active in the community, previously serving on the YMCA Wilkes-Barre Community Board, graduating from Leadership Wilkes-Barre, and participating as a member of the Junior League of Wilkes-Barre.

About Ellen Leighton

Leighton brings more than 40 years of experience in the mortgage industry. In her role as Vice President/Mortgage Loan Officer, she will provide financing solutions tailored to the needs of local clients and partner with area realtors to deliver programs that best fit each customer’s situation. Her focus is on helping individuals and families finance their dream homes.

Prior to joining PSBT, Leighton held mortgage lending positions at Luzerne Bank and Landmark Community Bank and also served as a partner in a mortgage company. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her sales performance, customer service, and ability to build lasting relationships. In 2024, she earned the Top Producing Mortgage Originator Award from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) for her work in affordable housing lending.

A graduate of Bishop Hannan High School and Lackawanna College, Leighton is also active in the community. She serves on the fundraising committee for Coffee Inclusive, an initiative that supports employment opportunities for individuals with special needs.

About Peoples Security Bank and Trust Company

Founded in 1905, Peoples Security Bank and Trust Company has 39 full-service branches across 14 counties in Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey. Peoples Security Bank and Trust Company offers a comprehensive range of financial services, including personal and business banking, home financing, insurance, and wealth management solutions. PSBT is dedicated to becoming the premier financial services provider in its markets, with a focus on quality, growth, and earnings. For more information, visit psbt.com.