Like many Nebraskans growing up in the 1980s, Mark Linville experienced the challenges in agriculture. Many people viewed bankers as the problem amid the farm crisis, even as banks were facing closures and mergers. Despite the economic turmoil, Linville saw the positive impact that a good banker had on the lives of local businesspeople, farmers and the economy as a whole. “My family has experienced both sides of this. So, I truly see how important it is to have a banker who’s a partner who views you as more than just a number. It’s a personal relationship, and that’s especially true when times are challenging,” Linville said. Linville’s early exposure to the impact of a community banker played a significant role in shaping his decision to enter the banking industry. Throughout his 35-year career, Linville has remained committed to helping his customers and community thrive. As the 2025-26 Nebraska Bankers Association chair, that dedication expands to the entire NBA membership. Meet 2025-26 NBA Chair Mark Linville Laurie Johnson, Communications & Marketing Assistant Nebraska Bankers Association Community Impact Linville values community involvement, whether it’s through the bank donating to a cause or volunteering in the community. One of the biggest impacts First State Bank has had on the Randolph community was the Downtown Betterment Revolving Loan Fund in 2011. The bank established a revolving loan fund used by local businesses to install new sidewalks, update infrastructure in downtown buildings and more. A committee of three community members and a banker determines where and how those funds are used. Additionally, the bank and others in the area contributed funds to convert part of the elementary school into a preschool and daycare in Randolph. As children age out of the preschool, they transition into the elementary school. The availability of childcare has attracted parents from other communities to Randolph. The school is growing as a direct result and does not need to consolidate. For a small school, that’s uncommon. Linville called the childcare availability a game-changer for both the school and the community. “Bankers are the cornerstone of their respective communities through volunteerism and leadership. I like the community involvement. You know, when there’s a community project, the bank is the first call. And I’m glad it is — we want to be a part of that. Not only are we expected to participate, but we want to participate. It’s a good part of the responsibility of being a banker and living in a small town,” Linville said. Linville understands the impact that his bank and other Nebraska banks have on the communities they serve. “We work in an incredible industry, one that serves as the heartbeat of our state. If you have a bank that’s engaged and investing in their local community, the community looks like it. Show me a thriving bank, and I’ll show you a thriving community,” Linville said. A Personal Touch As a small-town banker, Linville leads a team that is much smaller than at a larger bank, and everyone wears multiple hats to make sure all bases are covered. “My team does everything that the big banks do, on a smaller scale. And it’s very personal. Our customers know the people who make the decisions — we go to church with them, we go to school functions with them, and we stand in line at pancake feeds with them. We’re very nimble because the decisions are all made right here,” Linville said. Linville and his team appreciate their customers’ in-person visits. He said that although local customers can complete 8 NEBRASKA BANKER
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