What attracted you to banking as a career? As a finance major at Grand Valley State University, my finance professor asked me if I was interested in a well-paid internship at a bank, which led to an internship at Grand Rapids, Michigan-based Old Kent Bank. Old Kent Bank later became part of Fifth Third. From the beginning, I loved being part of an industry that helps people achieve their dreams. Once I got that initial taste of being a banker, I never considered doing anything else. I have worked in banking continuously since my junior year in college. What do you enjoy most about banking? The aspects I enjoy today are the same things that drew me to a career in banking three decades ago. I truly value the ability to help people reach their financial goals and achieve their dreams. It’s gratifying whenever you can play a role – however large or small – in helping someone else succeed. I also love leading an organization that is committed to strengthening the communities we serve. Building strong, sustainable communities is not only the right thing to do but also strengthens Old National. I’m also grateful to be part of an organization with a long history of fostering the growth and development of its team members. When you identify emerging leaders and empower them with the right tools and resources, you will see them blossom. Tell us about a pivotal moment in your career. Two things come to mind: First, when I was still early in my career with Old National, we entered the Michiana market through a partnership with St. Joseph Capital, headquartered in Mishawaka, Indiana. At the time, my family and I were living in Evansville, and I volunteered to relocate to South Bend as a market leader to ensure that we hit the ground running and find success right away. I spent my entire career working at headquarters, mostly in finance roles, so this opportunity and experience was an eye-opener about different parts of banking away from HQ. Another pivotal moment that comes to mind is Old National’s transformational partnership with Chicago-based First Midwest Bank in 2022.3 Bringing together two successful banks of roughly equal size is definitely not without risk, but we also knew a huge reward was waiting when we pulled it off. I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say we knocked it out of the park. Today, as a direct result of this partnership, Old National is objectively a stronger bank with an even stronger leadership team and a more effective board of directors. What ties these two examples together is that both require the willingness to take a chance. I’ve said it many times, but good things happen when you have faith in yourself and your team and aren’t afraid to dream big. MAY/JUNE 2025 13
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTg3NDExNQ==