Umpqua Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ:UMPQ), parent company of Umpqua Bank, has elected Peggy Fowler as chair of the board. Fowler has served on the company's board of directors since April 2009. She will succeed Allyn Ford as the company's board chair, and as chair of Umpqua Bank's board, following her election at Umpqua's annual meeting in April, 2012. Ford is retiring from Umpqua's boards after 40 years of service.

"As a member of our board for several years, Peggy has brought great insight and expertise to the company, and we're pleased to announce her election as chair," said president and CEO of Umpqua Bank, Ray Davis. "She will bring invaluable perspective to our shareholders, associates and customers, and we look forward to her leadership."

Fowler most recently served as the chief executive officer for Portland General Electric. She retired in 2009 after more than eight years at the helm and more than 35 years with the company. A Pacific Northwest native, Fowler earned her bachelor of science degrees in chemistry and mathematics from George Fox University. She currently serves on several boards, including Cambia Health Solutions, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon and Hawaiian Electric Industries. Peggy and her husband, Bob, are actively involved in the community as supporters of Boys and Girls Clubs and the Dougy Center.

Additionally, Bryan Timm has been appointed vice chair. Timm has served on Umpqua's board since 2004. Since May 2008, Mr. Timm has been the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Columbia Sportswear Company (NASDAQ:COLM).

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 locations between San Francisco, California, and Seattle, Washington, along the Oregon and Northern California Coast, Central Oregon and Northern Nevada. Umpqua Holdings also owns a retail brokerage subsidiary, Umpqua Investments, Inc., which has locations in Umpqua Bank stores and in dedicated offices in Oregon. Umpqua Private Bank serves high net worth individuals and non-profits, providing trust and investment services. Umpqua Holdings Corporation is headquartered in Portland, Oregon. For more information, visit www.umpquaholdingscorp.com.

Umpqua Holdings Corporation
Eve Callahan, 503-727-4188
evecallahan@umpquabank.com