from all of you, and I have a deep appreciation for the work you do every day to serve your customers and your communities. What makes this organization special is not any one person or event. It is the people who show up, participate and invest in each other. It is easy to stay focused on the day-to-day responsibilities at your own bank. We all have plenty to do. But taking the time to step away, connect with others and gain a different perspective is one of the best investments you can make. Not just for yourself, but for your team and your bank as well. As we head into this convention, I would encourage each of you to make the decision to show up. Bring a colleague. Invite someone who has never attended before. Take part in the sessions, the events and the conversations. You will get out of it what you put into it, and I can say from experience that it is well worth it. Some of the best experiences in life come from stepping into something new and trusting the process, even when you are not exactly sure what it will look like on the other side. When you do, you often come away with a better perspective, stronger relationships and a greater appreciation for the people around you. Thank you all for the opportunity to serve as your president. It has been an honor and an experience I will always treasure. I look forward to seeing many of you in Butte and continuing to be part of this great organization moving forward. Flying ahead with my fellow community bankers, Loren me. I have had the opportunity to work with so many great people across our member banks and associate members. I have learned PEOPLE. TEAMWORK. PASSION. OPPORTUNITY BANK MISSOULA BROADWAY 406.443.2340 cwg-architects.com 650 Power St. Helena, MT Strong foundations for your future. Innovating Montana financial institutions for over 65 years. Community Banker 5
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy ODQxMjUw