attend my first-ever ICBA Capital Summit to interact with our elected officials in Washington, D.C., and share with them the importance of community banking. I was incredibly nervous about meeting with our congressional delegates and knowing what to say. Still, Jim supported me and the other Montana attendees and ensured our voices were heard in D.C. Today, I feel very comfortable and confident in sitting down with our representatives and senators, both at the state and federal levels, thanks to all the mentorship Jim gave me. When I was asked to become an officer of the MIB, Jim once again stepped up and explained to me what my duties would look like and helped guide me through fulfilling those duties. And finally, as I stepped into the role of president of the Montana Independent Bankers, he was again right there by my side, helping ensure I was set up for success! Even writing these letters is one of the many things that Jim has helped coach me in and support me over the past year. (He didn’t help write this one or know what I was writing about.) As a leader of a community bank, I know how important community banks are to my hometown, our state and our country, but I think Jim understands that role of our banks even better. I am sad to see Jim go as our executive director, but I am so excited for him and proud of him as he moves to the next chapter of his life. I know, even though he won’t be serving in the role of executive director, he will still be one of the biggest supporters of community banking in the country and in our great state. Thank you, Jim, for everything you have done for me and the Montana Independent Bankers! I am also super excited to welcome Shane Scanlon as our new executive director! Shane has a fabulous background in helping get things done with state and federal politicians. He is incredibly organized and will help lead the MIB through continued success as we continue to champion community banking. As we head into fall, we have more opportunities for all of our community bankers to continue networking and growing their knowledge through MIB offerings. I would encourage all our female readers to attend the Women in Banking Conference that will be held Oct. 8-9 at the Springhill Suites in Bozeman. We get nothing but rave reviews on this event every year! As always, if there is anything I can do to better serve you please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am thankful for all of my fellow community bankers and community bank supporters! Community Banker 5
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