excited about is the Fundamentals of Banking Course developed in partnership with Opportunity Bank and Helena College. The first session was well received, with 13 participants completing the course from several community banks across the state. Early feedback confirmed that the material is practical, engaging and helpful in building a solid understanding of the banking industry. The second session is already underway, and interest continues to grow. There is real demand for accessible, Montana-based banking education, not just for new employees, but for students who may be considering community banking as a career. Looking ahead, I encourage you to consider enrolling employees in future sessions and helping to spread the word about upcoming offerings. This is an investment in our future workforce and in the long-term strength of community banking in Montana. All of these efforts — advocacy, education and national engagement — tie back to the same idea: Community banking remains strong because people care enough to participate. Montana Independent Bankers provides the platform, but our impact is driven entirely by our members. Whether that means attending an event, advocating in D.C., enrolling an employee in a training program or simply reaching out to share ideas, your involvement matters. As we move through winter and into spring, I encourage each of you to lean forward in making your bank and our communities better. Say yes to opportunities that stretch you a bit. Bring a colleague with you to an MIB event or consider attending the Capital Summit for the first time. These are the moments where momentum is built, not just for our association, but for community banking in Montana. Thank you, as always, for your commitment to community banking and to the communities we are privileged to serve. I look forward to seeing many of you in the months ahead and continuing this important work together in 2026. Looking forward to the future with my fellow community bankers, Loren Community Banker 5
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