the value of this branch we've had for 80 years? If we were to close this branch location and sell it today, what is the branch worth? And if it's above our current net book value, can you help us to find a way to produce a yield on that to produce a gain on sale?” That turned into a whole new line of work that we're still doing today. And in that same vein, banks also call at times to ask: “Can you tell us what our deposits are worth? Can you tell us what our loans are worth? And what is our whole bank worth? And can you help us achieve the highest and best results with these items as well?” Being called on to assist with these generationally important items is an absolute honor. Through all the history I’ve described, I’ve had my wonderful wife with me. We’ve been married for 35 years now. We have two adult children and one grandson, and I’m really proud of both my kids and so lucky to have been married for all this time. What does this award recognition mean to you? When I first found out I’d be receiving this award, it took me by surprise. I was left speechless. This recognition means more than I can possibly express in words. I don’t typically seek awards, but the fact that the association saw fit to give me one for doing the things that we do every day leaves me with an immense sense of pride and appreciation for MIB and its entire membership. What has been the most rewarding part of your career? The most rewarding part has been the last 15 years, since founding Keenan & Partners in 2009 and helping community banks solve problems. Community banks are the backbone of our country, supplying 60% of the small business loans in the U.S. and 70% of all ag loans. I've always respected the community banking industry. It has built the prosperity of our nation and helping them is immensely gratifying. What is your greatest career accomplishment? My greatest accomplishment is starting my own company. It means I get to control the ethical decisions and how we treat our clients, and make sure decisions are made with integrity. How has MIB helped you throughout your career? What are the benefits of membership? I first became involved with MIB in 2018 when I was growing my business outside my home state of Oregon. At the very first convention I attended that year, I didn't know anybody. I was welcomed by the leadership, by the staff and most importantly, by the membership. The leadership found me immediately at the first night's reception and said, “Thank you for being a business partner. Let us introduce you to some of our banker members.” I don't get that treatment at a lot of state association conventions I attend, so their actions really stood out. The membership followed up with me afterwards and have always stayed in touch. I’ve been given active opportunities to participate in everything that MIB does. The benefit of membership is that you'll expand your horizons. They'll always make sure that you're invited to play a role, not just to attend an event. I’d like to add that Jim Brown has done a wonderful job. He'll be sorely missed, and I wish him all the luck in the next chapter of his career. Shane Scanlon is a great replacement; they couldn’t have done better in picking their next leader. I also want to mention that Marie Stark will be missed. She's been great to work with, and I wish her all the best in retirement. And working with Terri James is always a pleasure. What is the best advice you have ever received, and how has it been applied in your daily life? When I was at boarding school, it was a structured environment, which was very hard at times, but there were a lot of good things that came from the experience as well. The school gave us five words to live by: honor, integrity, respect, humility and excellence. And I've done my best to live by all five of those. I didn't really understand them well at 14 or 15 years old, but here I am at 60 years old, 45 years later, repeating them back to you. I try to remember all five of those every day — and I don't just mean at work. I mean in all aspects of my life and with other people, whether it be clients I'm doing business with, association staff and leaders who I may interact with, people I meet on the street or my own family. Trying to incorporate those five things into my daily routine has helped me succeed. Terri James, MIB Assistant, with Tom Keenan, Keenan & Partners Community Banker 21
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTg3NDExNQ==