July/August 2025 THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INDIANA BANKERS ASSOCIATION 2024 C2C AWARD NOMINEES
Education is the foundation of performance for investment portfolio managers. This is the reason The Baker Group has presented hundreds of seminars and conferences across the country over the last forty-five years. We continue to bring that history of educational experience to a bond school designed specifically for new portfolio managers and those who need to learn the fundamentals of fixed income investing. The Baker Bond School will give attendees the knowledge to better understand the various types of securities available, how to analyze them effectively, and how to use that knowledge to build and manage a high-performance investment portfolio within the framework of the entire balance sheet. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN • Fundamentals of bonds, bond types, and the role of the investment portfolio • Introduction to bond analytics • Characteristics of high-performing portfolios • Introductions to the following investment sectors: — Treasuries, Agencies, and CDs — Municipal Bonds — Mortgage-Backed Securities and Collateralized Mortgage Obligations — Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities — Small Business Administration Securities • Mortgage prepayment analysis • Regulatory expectations for the investment portfolio • Portfolio cash flow strategies • How to develop a written investment strategy • How to analyze bond offerings WHO SHOULD ATTEND This school is designed for CEOs, CFOs, and those new to their roles in managing or working with the investment portfolio. Directors and new members of the investment and asset/liability management committees will also benefit from the Baker Bond School. THE BAKER GROUP’S Baker Bond School BOND SCHOOL SCHEDULE Thursday, September 18, 2025 Breakfast, Program, Lunch, Program, Adjourn, Dinner Friday, September 19, 2025 Breakfast, Program, Concludes at Noon ACCOMMODATIONS A block of rooms is available at the Lively Hotel on Oak. Identify yourself as a Baker Bond School attendee when calling 405.849.4777 to make online hotel reservations. The special room rate will be available until the room block is sold out. Hotel price: $179 + tax. For your convenience, register for the school online at GoBaker.com/ bond-school/. Call Skoshi Heron at 888.990.0010 or scan QR code for more information. 11 hours of CPE credits will be earned for your attendance. The Baker Group is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.NASBARegistry.org. Oklahoma City, OK | Austin, TX | Long Island, NY | Salt Lake City, UT | Springfield, IL | www.GoBaker.com | 800.937.2257 September 18-19, 2025 SCHOOL LOCATION Lively Hotel on Oak Oklahoma City, OK Cost: $595
DIRECTORS, STAFF AND CREDITS IBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS Matthew W. Howrey, Chair............................. North Salem State Bank David M. Findlay, FirstViceChair.......................... Lake City Bank, Warsaw Lisa Arnold, SecondViceChair........................... Home Bank, Martinsville Benjamin J. Bochnowski, ImmediatePastChair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Peoples Bank, Munster Amber R. Van Til, PresidentandCEO.................... Indiana Bankers Association CONSTITUENT DIRECTORS Garry D. Kleer, ABAMembershipCouncil....................... First Bank Richmond Kent A. Liechty, ICBAStateDirector........................... First Bank of Berne Amanda Morris-Feldman, IBA FLD President . . . . . . . . First Federal Savings Bank, Rochester Karen B. Woods, Non-Indiana Headquartered Banks . . . . . . . . First Financial Bank, Cincinnati REGIONAL AND AT-LARGE DIRECTORS Mark “Doc” Holt, At-Large.................... First Farmers Bank & Trust Co., Converse Nicole S. Lorch, At-Large.............................. First Internet Bank, Fishers J. Daniel Maddox, NorthRegion..................... Citizens State Bank, New Castle Bradley J. Monts, NorthRegion. . . . . . . . . . . . Hoosier Heartland State Bank, Crawfordsville Jacqueline M. Ruge-Perkins, NorthRegion.................. First State Bank of Porter Mark E. Bruin, SouthRegion...................... The National Bank of Indianapolis David A. Coffey, SouthRegion....................... Mutual Savings Bank, Franklin Eric J. Lane, SouthRegion.................. First Federal Savings Bank of Washington IBA FUTURE LEADERSHIP DIVISION ADVISORY BOARD Amanda Morris-Feldman, President .. .. .. .. ...... First Federal Savings Bank, Rochester Greg Barnes Jr., Vice President ........................... STARBank,FortWayne Ryan Anderson .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ........... The Fountain Trust Company, Covington Jenilee Bransteter .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ............... First Bank of Berne Jordan Briggeman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Springs Valley Bank & Trust Company, Jasper Ashley Burns .................................. FirstNationalBank,Cloverdale Michael J. Clampitt ...................................NorthSalemStateBank Brandi Dunn .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .............. The Farmers Bank, Frankfort Larissa Fox .................................... OldNationalBank,Evansville Kyle Goodwin .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ............... DeMotte State Bank Christopher Griffith .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ............ First Harrison Bank, Corydon Zach Hockersmith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hoosier Heartland State Bank, Crawfordsville Casey Johnson .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ............. Home Bank, Martinsville Laura Shake .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ............. The National Bank of Indianapolis Casey Shireman ........................................NWSB,Charlestown Vanessa Spicer .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ......... Community First Bank of Indiana, Kokomo IBA STAFF Amber R. Van Til ........................................ PresidentandCEO Rod Lasley ......................................... ChiefOperatingOfficer Dax Denton ............................................ChiefPolicyOfficer Christina M. Bennett, CMP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VicePresident–Meetings&Events Evan Hoffmeyer, CAE .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VicePresident–Communications Josh Myers .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .VicePresident–MemberEngagement Laurie A. Rees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VicePresident–Education&Training Ross Teare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VicePresident–GovernmentRelations Emily Brooks ........................................DigitalMediaManager Maria L. Dowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Executive & Government Relations Coordinator Molly Gibbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Events&Products/ServicesAssistant Elizabeth DeHaven ......................................EducationManager Timothy Fry .............................................StaffAccountant Tracy Kubly .......................................... TechnologyManager Silvia Regalado ......................................AdministrativeAssistant FINANCIAL SERVICES ACADEMY Chris Fisher, M.Ed. ....................................... PresidentandCEO Sara Holmes, M.Ed. ..............................Curriculum&PathwayManager OUR ASPIRATION The Indiana Bankers Association strives to grow stronger banks and stronger communities. OUR VALUES In fulfilling our mission, we will: • maintain the highest ethics, integrity and respect for others; • provide service with professionalism, innovation and resourcefulness; • instill passion, a positive attitude and enthusiasm; and • remain mindful that the success of the IBA is judged by the success of its members. indiana.bank Vol. 109 No. 4 INDIANA BANKERS ASSOCIATION 8425 Woodfield Crossing Blvd., Suite 155E Indianapolis, IN 46240-7321 PUBLISHER Amber R. Van Til EDITOR Evan Hoffmeyer, CAE ADVERTISING Josh Myers DESIGN The newsLINK Group SUBMISSIONS HB@indiana.bank ADVERTISING Media kits are available at indiana.bank. Advertising is reserved for members and associate members of the Indiana Bankers Association. DEADLINES Editorial and ad reservations are due the 20th of the month, two months before publication. SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are provided free of charge to members and associate members of the Indiana Bankers Association. ABOUT The flagship publication of the Indiana Bankers Association, Hoosier Banker is distributed to all banks and thrifts headquartered in Indiana, IBA-member banks headquartered out-of-state and IBA associate members. PUBLICATION DISCLAIMER Hoosier Banker (ISSN 0018 473X) is published bimonthly by the IBA Service Corp., a subsidiary of IBA Holding Company Inc., which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Indiana Bankers Association. Material published in Hoosier Banker and on the IBA website is the property of the IBA. All rights reserved. CONTACT IBA Email IBA staff using first name initial and last name, plus “@indiana.bank” – example: JDoe@indiana.bank. July/August 2025 3
22 2025 Legislative Session Summary By Dax Denton & Ross Teare, Indiana Bankers Association 34 Phishing and Fraudulent Wire Transfers: Who Bears the Loss? By Brett J. Ashton, Krieg DeVault LLP 44 Soft Landing vs. Recession and the Impacts on Interest Rate Risk By Luke Mikles, The Baker Group 10 2024 C2C AWARD NOMINEES 4 HOOSIERBANKER IN THIS ISSUE
50 Features 6 Vantage Viewpoint By Amber R. Van Til, Indiana Bankers Association 7 Chairman’s Report By Matthew W. Howrey, Indiana Bankers Association 8 2025 IBA Education Calendar COVER STORY 10 2024 C2C Award Nominees 36 A Legacy of Financial Literacy By Rob Nichols, American Bankers Association 38 Let’s Come Together to Address Fraud By Rebeca Romero Rainey, Independent Community Bankers of America 54 Staff Spotlight Articles 16 Accelerating Growth: 2025 Mega Conference Recap 20 2026 IBA Officer Candidates GR SUMMIT 22 2025 Legislative Session Summary By Dax Denton & Ross Teare, Indiana Bankers Association HUMAN RESOURCES 26 Equity vs. Liability What Employers Should Know About Navigating Workplace DEI in a Continuously Changing Landscape By Joey K. Wright, Amundsen Davis LLC COMPLIANCE CONNECTION 34 Phishing and Fraudulent Wire Transfers: Who Bears the Loss? By Brett J. Ashton, Krieg DeVault LLP DIRECTORS & SENIOR MANAGEMENT 44 Soft Landing vs. Recession and the Impacts on Interest Rate Risk By Luke Mikles, The Baker Group PRODUCTS & SERVICES PROFILE 50 Basic Profitability: Increase Revenue, Reduce Costs By Rod Lasley, Indiana Bankers Association Departments 6 Don’t Miss Out! 7 Digital Extras 21 Anniversary Milestones 21 Introducing New Bank Member 30 Bankers on the Move 35 Taking It Easy 39 In Memory Of … 40 From the Board Room 42 Honorable Mentions 46 Associate Members’ Corner 53 IBA ‘High Five’ Awards 53 Banking Center News 53 Advertiser Index 20 July/August 2025 5 INTERACT WITH IBA
I Amber R. Van Til President and CEO Indiana Bankers Association AVanTil@indiana.bank Vantage VIEWPOINT BY AMBER R. VAN TIL, INDIANA BANKERS ASSOCIATION It’s hard to believe we’re already halfway through the year. Even harder to believe I’ll be helping my oldest move into his college dorm in August! Just as our family gets ready to help him transition into this new phase of his life and education, the Association is getting ready to create a new way to develop the next generation of Indiana’s banking workforce with our Financial Services Academy. Learn more about FSA President & CEO Chris Fisher and Curriculum & Pathway Manager Sara Holmes, along with other new IBA hires, on page 54 of this issue. If you would like to host apprentices in the inaugural class starting next fall for the 2026-27 school year, be sure to reach out to Chris or Sara by the end of this year. They are also happy to walk you and your bank’s leadership through any questions you have about the program. We had another enviably successful legislative session this year amid some end-of-session turmoil triggered by a lower-than-expected budget forecast. Dax Denton and Ross Teare offer a summary starting on page 22 of this issue. There is still time to get involved in grassroots advocacy opportunities this year. Keep an eye out for details on this year’s regional meetings, slated for this November. And registration is already open through the IBA website for our annual IBA Washington Trip on Oct. 5-7. Last year’s trip included 51 bankers representing 32 IBA-member banks. With a new presidential administration, plus a new Indiana representative on the House Financial Services Committee and a new Indiana senator on the Senate Banking Committee, we would love to see that increase to at least 55 bankers representing 35 banks, so be sure to tell your colleagues at other banks to consider joining us if they haven’t before. The more institutions represented, the stronger our voice when we have our meetings with lawmakers and regulators. We’ll induct our seventh class of Leaders in Banking Excellence this year. We’re changing things a bit and will host the induction ceremony at Annual Convention in French Lick on Sept. 7-9. We encourage you to come to Convention and celebrate this year’s class. The IBA recognized Diamond Associate Members at Mega Conference during a keynote luncheon on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. DON’T MISS OUT! 1 Annual Convention Sept. 7-9 Indiana bank leaders convene, connect and conduct IBA business in scenic French Lick. 2 IBA Annual Washington Trip Oct. 5-7 Join the chorus and make your voice heard on industry issues at our nation’s capital. 3 Banking on Women Conference Oct. 22-23 Women in banking gather to unlock their potential and own the future. 6 HOOSIERBANKER
I Matthew W. Howrey Chairman Indiana Bankers Association President and CEO North Salem State Bank Matt has served as president and CEO of North Salem State Bank and its holding company, North Salem State Bancorporation, since 2010. Prior to joining the bank in 2008 as chief financial officer, he served as a bank examiner for the Indiana Department of Financial Institutions, reaching the level of senior financial examiner. DIGITAL EXTRAS Use the QR code to read every article in this issue, plus these digital-only stories! 1 Large & Small Banks’ Consumer Deposit Fee Trends Diverge Consumer deposit fee trends reversed course in the first quarter as larger banks that had been shrinking fees expanded them and smaller banks with higher reliance pulled back. 2 CRA in the Board Room Your board’s CRA responsibility has never been more critical in shaping strategies that serve both community and business interests. 3 Balancing AI & AML A compelling use case for community financial institutions: reducing the cost, effort and headache of AML compliance. Chairman’s REPORT BY MATTHEW W. HOWREY, INDIANA BANKERS ASSOCIATION I had a great time at Mega this year, as always, and enjoyed getting to see so many of you at our largest event of the year. If you weren’t able to join us this year, we announced the results of who the IBA is backing in the election for two open Indiana seats on the board of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis. Like last year, we held an internal “primary” process within the IBA, inviting anyone who wanted to run for the seats to put their name forward. The plan was to then put those names out to the president/CEO of every FHLBI-member bank in Indiana to let them cast their ballot for the two they most wanted to support. At the end of our nomination process in April, though, only two candidates had submitted their names, so they will automatically receive the Association’s endorsement. Please join me in congratulating and rallying behind J. Daniel Maddox, chairman & CEO of Citizens State Bank, New Castle, and Larry W. Myers, president & CEO of First Savings Bank, Jeffersonville. Last year, this strategy succeeded in maintaining one seat and flipping a second from a credit union executive back to banker control. I and the entire IBA Board encourage you to support Dan and Larry to keep the banking voice strong at the FHLBI. Maddox Myers Be sure to come down to French Lick to join hundreds of your fellow bankers for our Annual Convention on Sept. 7-9. While my term as chair will continue through the end of the year, the Convention is where we formally elect next year’s officers. You can meet this year’s slate of candidates on page 20-21 of this issue. July/August 2025 7
2025 IBA EDUCATION CALENDAR EDUCATION CALENDAR See all education opportunities at indiana.bank/calendar. AUGUST Community Bankers for Compliance Aug. 5: IBA Center & Virtual Bank Directors Symposium Aug. 7: Virtual Retail Management Series – Part 3: Serving with Excellence and Growing the Bank Aug. 12: IBA Center Emerging Leaders Digital Program – Part 3: Time Management Aug. 12: Virtual Call Report Preparation Aug. 12-13: IBA Center Fraud Academy (in partnership with the Kentucky Bankers Association) Aug. 12-14: Hyatt Regency Downtown, Lexington, KY Essentials of Banking – Part 2 Aug. 14: Virtual Treasury Management Forum Aug. 19: IBA Center Consumer Lending School Aug. 19-20: IBA Center Human Resources Directors Forum Aug. 21: IBA Center BSA/AML Compliance School Aug. 26-27: IBA Center Frontline Branch Series – Part 4 Aug. 27: Virtual *NEW* Chief Credit Officer Forum Aug. 28: IBA Center SEPTEMBER IBA Annual Convention Sept. 7-9: French Lick Springs Resort Advanced Agricultural Banking Conference Sept. 10-11: Doubletree by Hilton, Lafayette Senior Retail Banking Officer Forum Sept. 11: IBA Center Emerging Leaders Digital Program – Part 4: Communications and Conflict Sept. 16: Virtual Mortgage Lending School Sept. 16-18: IBA Center Understanding Bank Performance Sept. 16-18, 23-25, 30-Oct. 2, Oct. 7-9: Virtual New Account Documentation Sept. 23: IBA Center Train the Trainer Sept. 24-25: IBA Center Security Officer Forum Sept. 30: IBA Center OCTOBER BSA Forum – Group 1 Oct. 1: IBA Center BSA Forum – Group 2 Oct. 2: IBA Center IBA Annual Washington Trip Oct. 5-7: The Willard Intercontinental, Washington, D.C. Emerging Leaders Digital Program – Part 5: Coaching 101 – Performance & Growth Oct. 7: Virtual IRA School Oct. 8-9: IBA Center Outside Calling School – Part 1 Oct. 9: Virtual Senior Lender Forum – Group 1 Oct. 15: IBA Center Senior Lender Forum – Group 2 Oct. 16: IBA Center Banking on Women Conference Oct. 22-23: Embassy Suites, Noblesville 8 HOOSIERBANKER
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TAsset Size: Under $750 Million Bath State Bank One thing has remained constant for Bath State Bank over the past 100 years: its desire to remain a locally owned, independent bank that makes a positive impact on its local economy and community. This past fiscal year, the bank financially supported 240 organizations, totaling almost $150,000. The bank also earned the “Small But Mighty” corporate award for volunteerism and financial support from Junior Achievement of Eastern Indiana. In addition, countless hours of time spent in the classroom, on the fairgrounds and engaged in other community activities are just a part of the staff’s commitment. The Bippus State Bank, Huntington Bippus State Bank demonstrates a strong commitment to community through donations, sponsorships and extensive volunteer efforts. Employees actively engage in local initiatives such as Habitat for Humanity, food pantries and youth programs while also participating in events like Relay for Life and local festivals. Each branch tailors outreach to its specific community, and staff are encouraged to get involved through varied volunteer opportunities and fundraising efforts like the jeans fund. Success is measured by the bank’s ability to meet community needs effectively and broadly. Bippus State Bank’s outreach reflects its belief that banking is about relationships, support and local impact. Citizens Bank, Mooresville Citizens Bank believes the story of banking is about identifying needs and taking action to improve lives. Annually, the bank provides over $100,000 in donations, sponsorships and gifts, along with hundreds of volunteer hours. In 2024, the bank impacted over 500 K-12 students in Monrovia alone by delivering in-classroom financial education. Staff regularly propose causes important to them, which are vetted, developed and funded by the COVER STORY 2024 C2C AWARD NOMINEES The Indiana Bankers Association Commitment to Community Awards, presented annually at the IBA Mega Conference, tell the story of banking by showcasing bank community service provided the prior calendar year. For the first time this year, three awards were given instead of two: asset sizes under $750 million, between $750 million and $3 billion, and $3 billion or more. For the 2024 awards, Home Bank, Martinsville, won in the category of banks under $750 million in assets; our inaugural mid-size bank winner for institutions with between $750 million and $3 billion in assets was Community First Bank of Indiana, Kokomo; and 1st Source Bank, South Bend, won for banks with $3 billion or more in assets. Each of the following 22 nominees answered questions that aligned with an evaluation rubric, and all entries were reviewed and scored by representatives from the Tennessee Bankers Association. 10 HOOSIERBANKER
bank. Employees are encouraged to use their time to support bank-related community efforts. For Citizens Bank, it’s not just about the dollar amount given; it’s about building relationships that create meaningful change. DeMotte State Bank DeMotte State Bank has been an established financial institution and community partner for over 100 years. The bank has introduced three annual giving initiatives: Spread the Love, Treat Your Teacher and Scare Away Hunger, which address the most significant needs in its communities. 2024 efforts included donating Amazon gift cards and other prizes to local teachers, organizing holiday food drives for food pantries and hosting community appreciation events. The bank has been consistently known as a trusted financial institution in the community but strives to also be known as a community partner by contributing time, talents and significant financial investment. First Federal Savings Bank, Evansville First Federal Savings Bank believes that institutions that prioritize people both foster opportunities and build stronger communities. In 2024, bank employees dedicated 386.3 hours to local nonprofit organizations and nonprofit leadership roles were held by 34 bank employees, showing a broad impact on the community. In response to the devastating hurricanes in North Carolina, the bank partnered with Gibco Motor LLC to fill seven semi-trucks with essential supplies like food, water, clothing and hygiene products to benefit displaced residents. Overall, the bank aims to uphold the trust placed in it and embody what it means to serve as a community partner. First Federal Savings Bank, Rochester First Federal Savings Bank has a focus on serving the community through financial education, offering real, practical experience and discussion on complicated topics. Audiences for these educational initiatives include students of all ages, incarcerated individuals, senior citizens and other community members in need. The bank encourages employees to utilize their volunteer time benefit, which allows them to volunteer with nonprofit organizations of their own choosing during normal business hours. In addition to financial education, the bank provides monetary donations and sponsorships throughout the community. Ultimately, the bank strives to share financial literacy and de-mystify banking so all community members have access to banking services. Home Bank, Martinsville Home Bank’s vision for the community is “Making Lives Better.” The bank and its staff work to live out that mission through financial support to nonprofits, leadership in key community initiatives, employee volunteerism and financial literacy programs across all age groups. The bank’s community gifting program donates 10% of the bank’s net income each quarter to nonprofits across its markets. Efforts are primarily focused on affordable housing, mental health and other challenges that may be experienced by those who are under-resourced in the community. The bank was formed in 1890 to facilitate housing and support prosperity in Morgan County, and it still strives to uphold that mission today. WINNER 11 July/August 2025
Hoosier Heartland State Bank, Crawfordsville FINALIST Hoosier Heartland State Bank takes pride in being a cornerstone of its community’s success, trusted to step up when times are tough. Each year, the bank proudly invests 10% of its annual income into local nonprofits, schools and service programs, totaling over $2 million since 2013. Bank staff are empowered to make a meaningful impact through a variety of volunteer and outreach initiatives. In 2024, 71 teammates volunteered a total of 964 hours, making an economic impact of $31,000. The bank’s commitment to community exemplifies what it believes banking truly should be: personal, impactful and focused on the greater good. Logansport Savings Bank To Logansport Savings Bank, being a community bank means giving time, talent and financial support to customers and communities. In 2024, the bank gave nearly $20,000 in charitable contributions and donations that supported dozens of local schools, student athletes, kids and families, and various nonprofit organizations across multiple counties in north central Indiana. Staff live out the bank’s tagline of “Leading the Way” by getting involved in the community – through volunteerism and service on boards and committees. The bank believes that the story of banking shines through when people see, know and trust their local bank as a community supporter – at any age or stage in their life. Owen County State Bank, Spencer Owen County State Bank believes banking is about building strong relationships and contributing to the well-being of the community. By partnering with community agencies, funding essential projects and providing assistance to those in need, the bank aims to show that it can be a force for positive change. Initiatives like the bank’s “Casual for Charities” program encourage employee giving and demonstrate that banking can be a platform for collective action to support local organizations. This approach to community engagement tells a compelling story of banking that emphasizes social responsibility and the bank’s role as a partner in building thriving communities. Asset Size: Between $750 Million and $3 Billion Community First Bank of Indiana, Kokomo In 2024, Community First Bank of Indiana demonstrated its deep commitment to community through donations, partnerships and staff engagement. The bank contributed over $174,000 to nonprofits, partnered with over 100 organizations and sponsored 138 events. Notably, the bank launched a nonprofit learning series to strengthen COVER STORY CONT. WINNER 12 HOOSIER BANKER
local leadership. The bank also formalized a strategic planning process with local community foundations to guide impactful giving. Staff are engaged through paid volunteer hours, incentives and planning roles. With 71% of employees volunteering over 2,000 hours, the bank’s outreach reflects its mission to partner with communities for a lasting impact and empower them to thrive. First Bank Richmond First Bank Richmond has supported its community since 1887 through financial contributions, volunteerism and advocacy. In 2024, the bank donated over $637,000 to local nonprofits and had 50% of staff serve on nonprofit boards or committees. Its outreach focuses on education, financial literacy, health and nonprofit support. Initiatives include reading programs, financial education via Banzai, dementia-friendly services and the “Doing Great Things Together” campaign, which highlights local nonprofits. Staff are deeply involved through volunteer time, training and internal incentives. Success is measured by tangible community improvements, reflecting the bank’s belief that strong communities and strong banks grow together. First Harrison Bank, Corydon First Harrison Bank’s commitment to community outreach reflects its belief that thriving communities contribute to the bank’s own success, reinforcing the role of community banks as local pillars. One example of the bank supporting its community is its annual donation of 1,500 lbs. of turkey to local food banks each Thanksgiving, engaging customers via social media to boost donations. This effort addresses food insecurity, particularly in areas with high free/reduced lunch rates and local food assistance programs. The program’s success is measured by strong community involvement, with over 18,000 people reached on social media and 1,500 interactions. First Savings Bank, Jeffersonville First Savings Bank’s commitment to community is reflected in its generous financial contributions and employee involvement. In 2024, the bank donated $555,633 to charities and organizations, while employees volunteered 5,690 hours. The bank supported 452 organizations and participated in nearly 1,900 events, focusing on financial literacy, economic development and community vitality. Staff engagement is fostered through a charity committee, raising funds for local causes and supporting employees in need. Success is evaluated through service hours, employee feedback and community impact, with the bank viewing its outreach as a vital partnership that strengthens both the community and its business. JCBank, Seymour JCBank has supported its communities for 125 years through financial contributions and volunteerism, dedicating $134,464 and 3,779 hours of service in 2024. The bank focuses on key areas like education, food security and youth engagement, partnering with organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs and Big Brothers Big Sisters. JCBank encourages employee involvement by providing opportunities to volunteer and serve on nonprofit boards. Success is measured by tracking events, funding, account growth and community impact. JCBank’s commitment highlights the evolving role of banks as community-driven entities that prioritize long-term well-being over transactions, fostering sustainable relationships and development. July/August 2025 13
Peoples Bank, Munster FINALIST Peoples Bank is deeply committed to strengthening communities in northwest Indiana and Chicagoland. In 2024, 108 employees volunteered 3,800 hours, supporting 177 organizations. The bank partners with local nonprofits, offering financial literacy programs, hosting events like Shred Day for fraud prevention and participating in initiatives like VITA and Revive Home Repair Grants. Additionally, the bank’s Community First Committee raised over $29,000 for local nonprofits in 2024. Success is measured by volunteer hours, community engagement and employee feedback. Peoples Bank’s long-standing focus on building relationships, fostering trust and driving local economic growth reflects the core values of community banking since its founding in 1910. STAR Bank, Fort Wayne STAR Bank is deeply committed to community service, focusing on education, the arts and economic redevelopment. In 2024, employees volunteered nearly 700 hours, and the bank donated over $400,000 to more than 90 nonprofits. STAR supports local youth development through programs like “STARs of Tomorrow” and the “Future of Agriculture” scholarship. The bank also helps with affordable housing via its Home Hope Mortgage. Engaging employees with eight hours of volunteer time off annually fosters team-building and community impact. STAR evaluates success through monthly committee decisions and the stories of those positively impacted by their philanthropy, emphasizing meaningful change. Asset Size: $3 Billion and Above 1st Source Bank, South Bend 1st Source Bank is deeply committed to community support through financial wellness education and volunteerism. The bank helps individuals overcome financial challenges by providing personalized guidance and resources to help them achieve their financial goals. In 2024, the bank taught over 200 financial classes, assisting individuals in budgeting, saving and homeownership. Staff actively engage in outreach, logging 14,535 volunteer hours and participating in community drives. The bank tracks its impact through a new reporting platform, reinforcing its mission to help individuals achieve financial security and success and exemplifying its core value of community leadership in all its actions. Centier Bank, Merrillville FINALIST Centier Bank is committed to community service through its CentierGives initiative, supporting local organizations in areas like health, education and food insecurity. In COVER STORY CONT. WINNER 14 HOOSIER BANKER
2024, the bank donated over $100,000 to the United Way and $25,000 to charities linked to new branch openings. The bank engages staff by offering volunteer hours, incentives and matching donations. Centier tracks its impact, reporting over $18.8 million donated to 1,500 organizations and 134,000 volunteer hours. With a focus on transparency, the bank’s outreach reflects its mission to enrich lives and foster community growth through financial guidance and caring relationships. Lake City Bank, Warsaw Lake City Bank supports its community through local involvement, with employees actively engaging in local organizations and causes they are passionate about. The bank addresses community needs by offering affordable housing solutions, partnering with Habitat for Humanity and providing financial services to underserved areas. Employees are encouraged to volunteer with paid time off and opportunities to teach financial literacy. In 2024, employees volunteered over 4,000 hours, contributing to programs like Junior Achievement and financial wellness workshops. The bank evaluates success through participation and budget, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to community through its long-standing community banking model. Merchants Bank, Carmel Merchants Bank supports its community through the MPACT program, which encourages employees to donate time, talents and resources to local organizations. The program focuses on financial literacy, affordable housing and small business support. Merchants offers free financial literacy sessions, provides grants for first-time homebuyers and helps small businesses access funding. Employees are given additional paid time off for community involvement and can nominate local organizations for funding through the Merchants Foundation. Since its inception, MPACT has logged over 17,000 service hours. Success is evaluated through an annual award ceremony, tracking volunteer hours and adjusting efforts to meet community needs. Stock Yards Bank & Trust Company, Louisville Stock Yards Bank & Trust supports its community through donations, volunteerism and services tailored to local needs. In 2024, the bank donated nearly $100,000 to various civic organizations and led volunteer events, such as working with Habitat for Humanity. The bank addresses community needs with initiatives like the Home Repair Grants, offering forgivable loans to low-income households for essential home repairs. Staff actively engages through events like the Dash by the Past 5K and Habitat for Humanity builds. Success is evaluated through tracking contributions and monitoring the impact of community programs. Their commitment continues the bank’s tradition of personalized, community-focused banking since 1904. Thank you to the IBA-member banks that participated in the 2024 C2C Awards program! Nominations are now open for the 2025 Commitment to Community Awards. Learn more and nominate your bank at indiana.bank/Commitment-Community-Award. July/August 2025 15
T Accelerating Growth: 2025 MEGA CONFERENCE RECAP The Indiana Bankers Association’s annual Mega Conference equipped Hoosier bankers with the tools, insights and strategies to embrace innovation, harness emerging technologies and drive sustainable success. This year’s theme, “Accelerating Growth,” underscored the need to evolve in a world where agility, innovation and leadership define the path forward. Attendees for 2025 held steady at more than 1,200, including an increase in two-day/full-conference registrations. The conference teed off later than normal on Tuesday, May 27, the day after Memorial Day, with an afternoon golf tournament at The Fort Golf Resort at Fort Harrison State Park on the northeast side of the city. That evening, the IBA hosted its annual Associate Member Appreciation Reception at the JW Marriott in recognition of the many associate members who make Mega possible each year. Bankers and associate members enjoyed drinks and hors d’oeuvres while networking with one another. The evening concluded with the popular hospitality suite in the Presidential Suite at the JW. On Wednesday, the conference schedule began in earnest with two morning and two afternoon rounds of educational breakout sessions, with six sessions to choose from in each slot. Wednesday morning also featured the return of the popular Fintech Showcase, sponsored by Profit Resources Inc. The showcase featured live pitches from emerging companies displaying their new technologies and opportunities to implement innovative solutions specifically designed for community banks and their customers. Between the morning and afternoon sessions was a lunch keynote featuring David Atkins, who discussed how to break through fear and adversity to achieve success. The luncheon also featured the presentation of 2025 Diamond Associate Member awards and recognition of 2024’s Five-Star Bank members. After the day’s educational sessions wrapped up, bankers returned to the exhibit hall for the Mega Celebration, where they mingled with one another and associate members over food and drinks. That evening, the IBA Future Leadership Division gathered for a casual networking event at Social Cantina, just a short walk from the convention center. All conference attendees were then invited back to the hospitality suite for another evening of fun, conversation, food and drinks. Thursday brought another four rounds of education sessions, again with six options each. At lunch, one of the IBA’s most popular keynote speakers, Lindsay Boccardo, dug into the differences between generations and how to build a winning workforce amid those differences. The luncheon also featured the announcement of this year’s Commitment to Community Award winners. The program is designed to showcase exceptional community outreach by banks in the state. Congratulations to Home Bank, Martinsville, for winning the category for banks with under $750 million in assets; Community First Bank of Indiana, Kokomo, for winning the category for banks with between $750 million and $3 billion in assets; and 1st Source Bank, South Bend, for winning the category for banks with more than $3 billion in assets. Learn more about all of this year’s nominees starting on page 10. Thank you to all who attended, and many thanks to our generous sponsors. We hope to see you at next year’s Mega Conference, scheduled for May 19-21, 2026, at the Indiana Convention Center. 16 HOOSIERBANKER
ACCELERATING GROWTH July/August 2025 17
Thank you to the 22 IBA-member banks that submitted nominations for the 2024 C2C Awards. The stories of all nominating banks are highlighted on pages 10-15 in this issue, as well as in IBA social media using the hashtag #C2CAwards. Nominations are now open for the 2025 C2C Awards, to be presented at the 2026 Mega Conference. For more information, visit indiana.bank/Commitment-Community-Award, or contact Emily Brooks at EBrooks@indiana.bank. Asset size: Under $750 million ▶ Home Bank, Martinsville – winner ▶ Hoosier Heartland State Bank, Crawfordsville – finalist ▶ Bath State Bank ▶ The Bippus State Bank, Huntington ▶ Citizens Bank, Mooresville ▶ DeMotte State Bank ▶ First Federal Savings Bank, Evansville ▶ First Federal Savings Bank, Rochester ▶ Logansport Savings Bank ▶ Owen County State Bank Asset size: $750 million-$3 billion ▶ Community First Bank of Indiana, Kokomo – winner ▶ Peoples Bank, Munster – finalist ▶ First Bank Richmond ▶ First Harrison Bank, Corydon ▶ First Savings Bank, Jeffersonville ▶ JCBank, Seymour ▶ STAR Bank, Fort Wayne Asset size: More than $3 billion ▶ 1st Source Bank, South Bend – winner ▶ Centier Bank, Merrillville – finalist ▶ Lake City Bank, Warsaw ▶ Merchants Bank, Carmel ▶ Stock Yards Bank & Trust Company, Louisville, KY ▶ Alliance Bank, Francesville ▶ Bank of Wolcott ▶ The Bippus State Bank, Huntington ▶ Citizens Bank, Mooresville ▶ Citizens State Bank, New Castle ▶ Community First Bank of Indiana, Kokomo ▶ Crossroads Bank, Wabash ▶ DeMotte State Bank ▶ F&M Bank, Archbold, OH ▶ Farmers & Merchants Bank, Boswell ▶ Farmers and Mechanics Federal, Bloomfield ▶ Farmers and Merchants Bank, Laotto ▶ The Farmers Bank, Frankfort ▶ First Bank of Berne ▶ First Bank Richmond ▶ First Farmers Bank & Trust Co., Converse ▶ First Federal Savings Bank, Huntington ▶ First Federal Savings Bank, Rochester ▶ First Federal Savings Bank of Washington ▶ First Harrison Bank, Corydon ▶ First Savings Bank, Jeffersonville ▶ First State Bank of Middlebury ▶ First State Bank of Porter ▶ The Fountain Trust Company, Covington ▶ GBC Bank, Greenfield ▶ Hendricks County Bank & Trust Company, Brownsburg ▶ Home Bank, Martinsville ▶ Hoosier Heartland State Bank, Crawfordsville ▶ JCBank, Seymour ▶ Kentland Bank ▶ Logansport Savings Bank ▶ Mutual Savings Bank, Franklin ▶ The Napoleon State Bank ▶ North Salem State Bank ▶ NWSB, Charlestown ▶ The Peoples Bank, Brownstown ▶ Riddell National Bank, Brazil ▶ Springs Valley Bank & Trust Company, Jasper 2025 MEGA CONFERENCE RECAP CONT. 18 HOOSIERBANKER
▶ 360Factors ▶ Amundsen Davis LLC ▶ The Baker Group ▶ Baker Hill Corporation ▶ Banc Card of America ▶ BancMac/Community Banc Mortgage Corporation ▶ Bankers’ Bank ▶ BCC – Bank Compensation Consulting ▶ Bridge Business Credit ▶ Capitale Analytics ▶ Check Printing Contract Consulting ▶ Cherry Bekaert ▶ Cinnaire Corporation ▶ CLA ▶ Clark Schaefer Hackett ▶ DDI Technology ▶ Dentons ▶ Diebold Nixdorf ▶ Executive Benefits Network ▶ Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis ▶ Federated Hermes Inc. ▶ Fiserv ▶ Forvis Mazars ▶ Graduate School of Banking ▶ Green Sign Company ▶ Hokanson Companies Inc. ▶ IBA Group Insurance Trust ▶ Independent Community Bankers of America ▶ infotex ▶ Investors Title Insurance Company ▶ K4 Architecture + Design ▶ The KeyState Companies ▶ KlariVis ▶ Krieg DeVault LLP ▶ Ncontracts ▶ NFP ▶ Performance Trust Capital Partners ▶ Plante Moran ▶ Profit Resources Inc. ▶ PULSE ▶ QSI Inc. ▶ Renninger & Associates LLC ▶ Spry ▶ TCA Compliance ▶ TIB – The Independent Bankers’ Bank NA ▶ Title Center of Indiana LLC ▶ Travelers ▶ TriAD CTV ▶ United Bankers’ Bank ▶ UnitedHealthcare ▶ Virtual Innovation Inc. ▶ Young & Associates Inc. Diamond Associate Members ▶ Amundsen Davis LLC ▶ The Baker Group ▶ BancMac/Community Bank Mortgage Corp. ▶ Bankers’ Bank ▶ Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis ▶ K4 Architecture + Design ▶ The KeyState Companies ▶ Krieg DeVault LLP ▶ Kroger, Gardis & Regas LLP ▶ NFP ▶ Renninger & Associates LLC July/August 2025 19 Michael A. Renninger Principal (317) 695-7939 mrenninger@renningerllc.com Securities offered through Ausdal Financial Partners, Inc., 5187 Utica Ridge Road Davenport, IA, 52807 (563)326-2064 Member: FINRA, SIPC. Renninger & Associates, LLC and Ausdal Financial Partners, Inc. are independently owned and operated. www.renningerllc.com "For an ObjecƟve Assessment of Your Challenges and Professional ExecuƟon of Your OpportuniƟes" Buy-Side and Sell-side Representa�on involving whole banks, branches, and non-bank affiliates Stock Valua�ons and Fairness Opinions CPA-trained and CFO-experienced Indiana professionals serving Indiana banks. Our services include:
TThe slate of candidates for Indiana Bankers Association officers is set for 2026. Elections will take place at the annual business meeting at the IBA Annual Convention this September in French Lick. New officers assume their positions Jan. 1, 2026, and serve one-year terms. IBA’s Nominating Committee, chaired by immediate past chair Benjamin J. Bochnowski, Peoples Bank, Munster, has nominated the following officer candidates: ▶ Chair: David M. Findlay, Lake City Bank, Warsaw ▶ First Vice Chair: Lisa Arnold, Home Bank, Martinsville ▶ Second Vice Chair: Bradley J. Monts, Hoosier Heartland State Bank, Crawfordsville In addition to serving on the IBA Board of Directors, officers serve on the Association’s Executive Committee, along with the immediate past chair, two directors appointed by the incoming chair, and the Association’s president/CEO. The Executive Committee has the authority to act in lieu of the Board between regular board meetings. David M. Findlay David Findlay, candidate for board chair, is chairman and chief executive officer of Lake City Bank, Warsaw, and Lakeland Financial Corporation. He additionally serves on the boards of directors of both the bank and holding company. Findlay joined the organization in 2000 as executive vice president and chief financial officer, and from 2010 to 2014 served as president and CFO. Previously, he served for five years with Quality Dining Inc., South Bend, concluding as senior vice president and CFO. Findlay began his career with The Northern Trust Company, Chicago, serving in several capacities from 1984 to 1995, when he was a vice president in the commercial lending group. He is active as a board member with organizations including the IBA Group Insurance Trust, Indiana Chamber of Commerce, the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, OrthoWorx, Orthopedic Capital Foundation, AcceLINX, the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership, Trine University, Parkview Regional Health Center and Centerfield Capital Partners. F E ATUR E Findlay is a member of the Indiana Bankers Association class of 2019 Leaders in Banking Excellence, the Association’s highest honor. He is a graduate of DePauw University. Lisa Arnold Lisa Arnold, candidate for first vice chair, is president and CEO of Home Bank, Martinsville. She joined the bank in 1985 and has served in positions including branch manager, vice president of retail banking, chief operations officer and, most recently, president and chief operating officer. In addition to various community affiliations, Arnold is a trustee for the IBA Group Insurance Trust and was appointed to the Indiana Board of Depositories in 2024. She is a former member of the Franklin College Alumni Council and a past president of the Indiana Bankers Association Future Leadership Division. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Franklin College and an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University. Arnold also is a graduate of the American Bankers Association Stonier Graduate School of Banking and the ABA National Commercial Lending School. 2026 IBA Officer CANDIDATES 20 HOOSIERBANKER
ANNIVERSARY MILESTONES Lynn Chapman has served in the banking industry for 40 years. After 23 years at United Community Bank, Auburn, Illinois, she moved to Garrett State Bank in 2007 as vice president-operations. She now serves as vice president and senior operations officer. Monica Daulton, relationship manager with The Farmers & Merchants Bank, Boswell, has worked in banking for 35 years. She worked for the bank from 1988-95, then rejoined in 1997 and has stayed with the bank ever since. Kayla Conrad celebrated 20 years with Garrett State Bank in June. She started with the bank in June 2005 as a part-time teller, working her way up the ranks to loan clerk; loan officer; and assistant vice president-lending; until she was promoted to her current position of vice president, senior retail banking officer in May 2016. Conrad was named a Rising Star in Banking by BankBeat magazine in 2018. She volunteers with Junior Achievement, United Way, Huntertown Heritage Days and the Huntertown Chamber of Commerce. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne. Bradley J. Monts Brad Monts, candidate for second vice chair, is president and CEO of Hoosier Heartland State Bank, Crawfordsville. He joined the bank in 1990 and has held positions as branch manager, loan officer, senior vice president, operations manager, CFO, COO and, currently, president/CEO. Monts is an active leader for many local community organizations. He serves as treasurer of the Montgomery County Education Foundation, president of Indiana West Advantage and a member of the Montgomery County Redevelopment Commission. Monts is also a member of the Ladoga Lions Club, Montgomery County Health & Wellness Center Board, the Independent Community Bankers of America’s Cyber and Data Security Subcommittee and the Montgomery County Community Council. Monts earned a bachelor’s degree from Franklin College and has completed the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. J. Daniel Maddox of Citizens State Bank, New Castle, currently serves as a North Region Director on the Board with a term ending Dec. 31. The Nominating Committee put him forth for a second term. Shane R. Pilarski of Alliance Bank, Francesville, has been nominated as a North Region Director representing mid-sized banks. Chapman Daulton Conrad Introducing New Bank Member The Farmers State Bank, New Madison, Ohio, joined the Association in May. Under the direction of President & CEO J. Anthony Brown, the bank offers personal and business accounts for checking, savings, certificates of deposit and individual retirement accounts. Loan products for consumers include auto, mortgage and construction, with business and agricultural loan products for real estate, lines of credit, machinery and equipment. In operation since 1889, the bank has been under the guidance of the Coblentz family since 1949. Based in New Madison, Ohio, just 15 minutes across the border, the bank made its first excursion into Indiana in 2015 with a location in Winchester – its seventh location overall. It opened a second Indiana location just two years later, this time in Portland. Learn more at MyFSB.bank. July/August 2025 21
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