How did you get started in the banking industry? I was a law student at Creighton University and realized I did not want to practice law as a career. At that time, I decided to pursue an MBA concurrent with my law degree and focused my studies on business, specifically banking. After graduation, I joined a regional bank’s Executive Development Program to learn about all aspects of banking and chose to join the commercial lending department. I have remained in commercial lending thus far in my career. The study of law has provided me with a strong foundation for banking and lending. What makes your bank unique? Adams Bank & Trust was chartered in 1916 and is in its fourth generation of family ownership, with the fifth generation currently assuming leadership roles. Our bank will remain under family ownership and continue to grow organically. In 2000, the bank expanded its branch footprint from Nebraska to Colorado and subsequently into Kansas. The bank’s commitment to its community is very strong. Our team believes the community has helped us to become what we are, and we owe it to the community to give our time in service. One additional unique aspect is that our bank’s first branch was located in a town that is currently submerged under Lake McConaughy near Ogallala, Nebraska. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? The most rewarding aspect of my job is assisting others in accomplishing their goals. Whether that is a business owner seeking to expand their business or an employee aspiring to gain skills to advance their career, I gain fulfillment from being a trusted advisor and resource. Tell us something about yourself most people don’t know. I have four daughters — ages 16, 12, 9 and 6. They are all wonderful and different; I am hoping one of them will someday decide to enter the family business of banking. So far no takers! John Berkhausen President of Commercial Banking Adams Bank & Trust CBA Centerpoint How did you get started in the banking industry? After graduating from the University of Wyoming in 1983, I accepted a position as a management trainee with the Fort Lupton State Bank, now known as Bank of Colorado. Forty years later, I’m still here serving as market president, a position I have held since 1990. What makes your bank unique? Bank of Colorado is one of the few remaining family-owned banks that still embraces the community banking model. Although the bank has grown to approximately $7 billion in assets with over 50 locations, ownership empowers local decision-making. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? At this stage in my life and career, I enjoy educating and mentoring the next generation of bankers. I’m excited for the young talent rising in our organization. What is your favorite movie or book, and why? My favorite movie is “The Green Book.” It’s a wonderful story of how two totally opposite men embark on a musical tour in the early 1960s through the American South and the lifetime friendship and camaraderie that develops while they both encounter racism and prejudice. Who is one of the most influential figures in your life? The late Roy Dinsdale was the patriarch of our organization; I was fortunate to have had the honor to work for and with him. He led by example and taught me valuable traits such as honesty, integrity, modesty, hard work, generosity and common sense. Donald Tomoi Market President Bank of Colorado Do you know a deserving Colorado bank employee who should be featured in a future CBA Centerpoint? Colorado Banker 12
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