OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF KANSAS BANKERS ASSOCIATION JANUARY/FEBRUARY ISSUE 1 2025 KBA Announces 2025 BLOK Class WASHINGTON UPDATE It’s Time for a Regulatory Reset Post-Election Tax Outlook
©2025 The Kansas Bankers Association (KBA) | The newsLINK Group LLC. All rights reserved. The Kansas Banker is published six times per year by The newsLINK Group LLC for KBA and is the official publication for this association. The information contained in this publication is intended to provide general information for review, consideration and education. The contents do not constitute legal advice and should not be relied on as such. If you need legal advice or assistance, it is strongly recommended that you contact an attorney as to your circumstances. The statements and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of KBA, its board of directors or the publisher. Likewise, the appearance of advertisements within this publication does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any product or service advertised. The Kansas Banker is a collective work, and as such, some articles are submitted by authors who are independent of KBA. While a first-print policy is encouraged, in cases where this is not possible, every effort has been made to comply with any known reprint guidelines or restrictions. Content may not be reproduced or reprinted without prior written permission. For further information, please contact the publisher at (855) 747-4003. Executive Doug Wareham, President & CEO Kathy Taylor, JD, EVP, General Counsel Terri Thomas, JD, EVP, COO Alex Greig, President, KBA Insurance Inc. Administration Alex Orel, SVP, Government Relations Eric Stofer, SVP, Chief Financial Officer Sara Blubaugh, SVP, Administration & Board Secretary Julie Taylor, VP, Computer & Information Systems Kelly VanZwoll, JD, VP, Staff Attorney & Government Relations Alana Seelbach, AVP, Administration & Special Projects J.W. Wells, Ag Division Coordinator/ Government Relations Assistant Emma Thompson, Admin Intern Communications & Marketing Mary Taylor, SVP, Director of Communications & Marketing Bree Hull, AVP, Communications & Marketing Rayanna Breshears, Marketing & Strategic Partnerships Coordinator Education and Conferences Brenda L. Unruh, SVP, Director, Education & Conferences/Strategic Partnerships LeAnn Mott, VP, Education & Conferences Natalie Wareham, AVP, Education & Conferences Insurance Alex Greig, President, KBA Insurance Inc. Kent Owens, SVP, KBA Insurance Inc. Elizabeth Roche, SVP, Employee Benefits Administration Jenny Figge, SVP, Operations Cole Thompson, AVP, KBA Insurance Inc. Clinton Moore, Agent Services Representative, KBA Insurance Inc. Samantha Lee, Employee Benefits Specialist Legal/Compliance Jackie Kuhn, JD, VP, Staff Attorney Gwen Hill, JD, VP, Staff Attorney Jamie Cosgrove, JD, VP, Legal Department Manager Dylan Serrault, JD, VP, CFBS Manager Bobby Young, JD, VP, Staff Attorney Adeel Syed, JD, VP, Staff Attorney Neal Barclay, AVP, Compliance Specialist/Auditor Jeff Narron, AVP, Compliance Specialist/Auditor Kerry Clark, JD, AVP, Staff Attorney & Publications Specialist Lew Walton, JD, AVP, Compliance Specialist/Auditor Meridith DeForest, AVP, Administrative Legal Assistant Sarah Weltmer, AVP, Compliance Operations Specialist Shannon Capps, AVP, Compliance Operations Specialist Heather Williams, Compliance Operations Specialist Lindsay Bryant, Compliance Operations Specialist Sarah Lynch-Chaput, JD, Staff Attorney Gabe Walker, JD, Compliance Specialist, Auditor Hannah Schroller Simpson, JD, Compliance Operations Specialist Tom Thomsen, JD, BCS Coordinator Kat Eusey-Zuckerman, Legal Intern Darby Leitch, Legal Intern Colton Smith, Legal Intern CONTENTS WASHINGTON UPDATE 4 It’s Time for a Regulatory Reset By Rob Nichols, President and CEO, American Bankers Association 6 Leader’s Ledger By Brenda L. Unruh, SVP, Director, Education & Conferences/ Strategic Partnerships, KBA 8 KBA Announces 2025 BLOK Class 18 Outsourced Compliance Consulting Available to KBA Member Banks 20 2025 BankBeat Banker of the Year Mariner Kemper 21 The KBA Internship Connection Program Building Banking Futures 22 In Memory 26 46th Annual MOKAN Trust & Financial Services Conference 27 Post-Election Tax Outlook By Sam Brandt, Tax Senior Manager, Forvis Mazars 30 50 Year Club Awards 32 Picturing Kansas 34 2025 Conference Preview Cover photo by Leyanne Oller, Emprise Bank in Wichita
WASHINGTON UPDATE It’s Time for a Regulatory Reset By Rob Nichols, President and CEO, American Bankers Association Over the last four years, the banking industry has battled an onslaught of new rules and regulatory changes that have threatened to fundamentally alter how financial institutions in this country operate. Regulators have taken a de facto “one-size-fits-all” approach to rulemaking — ignoring the diversity of bank sizes, charters and business models within the banking sector, as well as the undeniable trickle-down effects of regulations that are, on paper, only targeted toward larger institutions. For whatever reason, they have also chosen to pursue rulemakings more tied to the past than the present. It’s time to stop fighting the last war and stay focused on the present and the future. ABA and the state associations have stepped up on behalf of our members, challenging misguided final rules in court wherever warranted and pushing back with facts and data to stop faulty assumptions from underpinning major regulatory changes and bogus claims about our industry from spreading. We’ve had some notable successes over the last four years, but it hasn’t been easy. As we have welcomed 2025, a new presidential administration and a new Congress, it’s time to reset the conversation around banking regulation. 4
That effort began right after the election during the transition, as ABA worked to communicate our priorities to the incoming Trump administration. With leadership changeovers anticipated at the regulatory agencies — including at the FDIC, OCC and CFPB — we expect to have the opportunity to share our perspective with the new players and help refocus the conversation around rightsizing the supervision and regulation of the banking sector. But while we can expect some of the new regulators to pause some proposed rulemakings altogether, and Congress could use the Congressional Review Act to undo some of the most recent regulatory proposals, it’s important to remember that the new administration and new Congress will not wield a magic wand. Undoing policy changes in a durable way can take just as long as putting new regulations into place since the Administrative Procedure Act and its notice and comment procedures apply. As we have noted in our many active lawsuits, regulators have frequently flouted the APA in recent years, and partisan agendas have too often driven a rulemaking process that is supposed to be even-handed and fact-based. We have the opportunity now to get it right — by following a transparent process and by working constructively to engage policymakers of both parties in crafting common sense regulations that ensure our banking sector remains safe, sound and well-capitalized. That’s how we bring about meaningful, long-lasting change. At ABA, we are ready to roll up our sleeves and get to work together with our state alliance partners — and we need your help. We need every banker in this country to stay engaged on the issues that matter. Reach out to your members of Congress, particularly in states where freshmen lawmakers are taking office. Get to know your representatives, invite them to your bank and introduce them to your customers and your employees. Help them to understand not just the important work banks do each day but the ripple effect that the provision of credit can have in our cities, towns and neighborhoods. Finally, I invite every banker in this country to join us in Washington, D.C., April 7-9 for the 2025 ABA Washington Summit. This year’s annual gathering of bank leaders will be critically important in making sure we have a policy environment that will unleash economic growth and allow banks to serve their customers and communities. We need all of you there to make sure our industry’s voice is heard loud and clear. Email Rob at nichols@aba.com. .media Broadcast Social Media Branch Promotion Testimonials Customer Stories Training P.S.A. Bank History Radio Spots “Thomas does amazing work! Our membership is so excited we have formed this partnership with Story Factory Media!” - Mary T. Kansas Bankers Association “Story Factory is a creative and innovative team that really went above and beyond for our video needs. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for video production and marketing support. Having an asset like them in our community helps my marketing team achieve their goals on time and on budget.” - Bob R. Greater Topeka Partnership Story Factory Compelling videos and photographs that tell your story, engage your audience and elevate your bank’s message. Script to screen services Traditional and drone photos and video 30 years experience in feature lm, television, marketing, corporate communication, and social media content Thomas@StoryFactory.media 785.422.7388 Visit us at: StoryFactory.media 5
Leader’s Ledger By Brenda L. Unruh, SVP, Director, Education & Conferences/Strategic Partnerships, KBA This February, the KBA will launch its annual survey for compensation and benefits. For more than 20 years, we’ve relied on feedback directly from our Kansas banks to look back at their previous year’s data to make certain that they are competitive in their respective markets. This year is no exception. For the third year in a row, we’ve partnered with Industry Insights and state banking associations from Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska and Ohio to bring you a comprehensive online instrument by which you can measure your organization’s compensation and benefits through more than 100 different job titles. As always, we offer this for sale to all of our Kansas banks at an extremely competitive rate that is less than half of what some of the national surveys sell for. However, if you choose to participate, you will receive an additional significant discount on your fee, and you will receive supplemental regional reporting that is exclusive to participating banks only. Watch our weekly e-newsletter, eSource, for more information. The survey will open in late February and will close on April 1. A direct email will be sent to past participants as a reminder to complete the survey before it expires. We would be grateful if more than half of our Kansas banks participated, as there is strength in numbers, and we were very close to 50% participation in previous years. Survey results are released each year in the June/July timeframe, and all results will be in a downloadable PDF format. Gone are the days of waiting for a paper copy and/or a CD to arrive in the mail. And, with the reports being in PDF format, it’s easier than ever to access and archive. No more digging through your desk wondering where your copy went. Thank you all for making this annual survey so successful in the past! Please help your association continue moving Kansas banking forward so that you can remain competitive in your markets! Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. See all the deals: blue365deals.com/BCBSKS Blue365® is a free health and wellness discount program offered to you as a member of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas. We offer year-round discounts on gym memberships, fitness gear, healthy eating options and more. Healthy living is just a deal away KBA 0125 6
Welcome to Forvis Mazars. Global to see the big picture. Local to understand it. Providing clarity. Building confidence. Assurance | Tax | Consulting forvismazars.us
Now in its 19th year, the Bank Leaders of Kansas (BLOK) Program is a leadership development program coordinated by the Kansas Bankers Association. The BLOK program is designed to improve the leadership skills of Kansas bankers and accomplishes that goal through four primary objectives: • To increase the individual banker’s understanding and knowledge of the structure and governance of the KBA, including a complete overview of programs, services and representation provided by the KBA. • To increase the individual banker’s understanding of the state and federal legislative process and increase their willingness to actively support and defend the Kansas banking industry. • To increase the individual banker’s understanding and awareness of the various state and federal agencies that govern the banking industry in Kansas and how those agencies interact with the KBA. • To improve the individual banker’s leadership and communication skills through professional development and leadership training sessions and to provide a clear understanding of the individual banker’s role as a volunteer KBA leader. This year’s class includes a wide range of banking industry talent from across the state. Twenty-four Kansas bankers will participate in four BLOK training sessions that will arm them with the knowledge and information needed to be credible and effective advocates for the Kansas banking industry. The first session is scheduled for Feb. 4-6 and will center on the 2025 BLOK Academy and Harold A. Stones Government Relations Conference in Topeka. The 2025 BLOK Sponsors are: • Premier: BlueCross BlueShield of Kansas; FHLBank Topeka; KBA Insurance Inc. • Silver: INTRUST Bank, N.A. • Bronze: Bank Compensation Consulting; Bankers’ Bank of Kansas; Professional Bank Consultants LLC; Schools of Banking; UMB Bank KBA ANNOUNCES 2025 BLOK Class 8
INTRODUCING THE 2025 BLOK CLASS NEAL BARCLAY, CRCM Assistant Vice President — Compliance Specialist & Auditor, Kansas Bankers Association, Topeka Neal has worked in multiple banks and has over 30 years of banking experience in Compliance, BSA and Mortgage/Consumer Lending. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance and Economics from Pittsburg State University in 1987. He graduated from the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin in 1992 and obtained the ABA’s Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM) designation in 2005. Neal has been an instructor at the KBA/NBA Compliance School since 2018 and has been with the KBA for the past eight years. MATYSON BARNES Assistant Vice President, Credit Analyst Supervisor, Farmers Bank & Trust, Overland Park Matyson Barnes grew up in Council Grove, Kansas. She graduated from Fort Hays State University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance with a banking concentration, a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, and a certificate in Agricultural Business. Matyson has worked at Farmers Bank & Trust in the Credit Department for four and a half years, serving as the Credit Analyst Supervisor over the last year. Her previous banking experience includes working as a Teller at Farmers & Drovers Bank and interning at Bankers’ Bank of Kansas. Additionally, she volunteers throughout the year with the Salvation Army and a retirement community. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and traveling with her husband, Nick. DAN DUCHNOWSKI Senior Vice President, Chief Services Officer, Equity Bank, Wichita Dan Duchnowski has been with Equity Bank for two years as the Chief Services Officer, overseeing deposit operations, loan operations, mortgage operations and operations compliance. He has 25 years of banking experience, working at various banks throughout his career, including an internet-only bank, a private/commercial bank and community banks. His banking career has taken him from Georgia to Pennsylvania and, ultimately, Kansas. Dan has held diverse roles throughout his career, including Chief Banking Officer, Chief Marketing & Chief Deposit Officer, Digital Solutions Manager, Customer Service Center and Digital Banking Manager, and Client Care Senior Officer. He is currently attending Banking School at the University of Georgia and is scheduled to graduate in 2025. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a General Banking Degree from the American Bankers Association. Dan resides in Wichita with his wife, Melissa, and their two teenage sons. 9
CHRIS ENDICOTT Vice President and MPF Account Manager, FHLBank Topeka, Topeka Chris joined FHLBank Topeka in 2005 as an MPF Relationship Manager and was promoted to his present role as Vice President and MPF Account Manager in 2013. Before joining FHLBank, he worked as a Banking Center Manager for TeamBank, N.A. Chris has a Bachelor of Science in Finance with a minor in computer information systems from Emporia State University. JARED ENGELBERT Vice President & CFO, The First State Bank, Norton Jared Engelbert graduated from Kansas State University in 2010. After K-State, he worked as an Examiner for the FDIC in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He joined The First State Bank’s Holdrege, Nebraska, branch in 2015. Jared also works as an Agriculture and Commercial Loan Officer. Jared also works from the bank’s Norton, Kansas, office on loan committees and asset liability management. He completed the Graduate School of Banking in Madison, Wisconsin, in 2019. Passionate about his community, Jared volunteers at his church and serves on economic development boards. He lives in Holdrege with his wife, McKenzie, their three daughters, and one son. BRANDON GRIGSBY Vice President, Loan Officer, Stockgrowers State Bank, Ashland Brandon Grigsby was raised in Attica, Kansas. After high school, he attended Dodge City Community College on a football scholarship and later completed his degree at Kansas State University. He began his career at Meade State Bank before transitioning to real estate appraisals, earning a General Certified Real Estate Appraisal license, and working across a five-state region. In 2005, Brandon joined Stockgrowers State Bank as a Loan Officer, specializing in agricultural and commercial lending, collateral valuation, and appraisals. Now an Executive Officer, he serves on the loan and ALCO committees. Outside of banking, Brandon has served on numerous boards. He is currently a member of the USD 220 School Board, the Ashland 2020 Housing Committee, and the Kansas Water Office Red Hills Regional Advisory Committee. He is also a member of the Kansas Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. Brandon and his wife, Heather, are proud parents of three children — Reese, Britt and Kashlee. In their spare time, the family enjoys running a cattle and farming business. DANIEL HAYDEN Vice President of Payments and Deposits, Bankers’ Bank of Kansas, Wichita Daniel Hayden began his banking career more than 25 years ago in Northwest Kansas as a Bank Teller, progressing through various roles in the industry. Sixteen years ago, he moved to Wichita, Kansas, where he took on a position in audit and compliance, eventually becoming Vice President of Operations at a financial institution. In 2022, Daniel joined Bankers’ Bank of Kansas as Vice President of Payments and Deposits. He currently oversees the Cash Management Department, servicing the payment and deposit needs of community banks. He is passionate about the role that financial institutions play in Kansas communities. 2025 BLOK CLASS 10
CODY HEIMAN Vice President, Loan Officer, First Bank Kansas, Salina Cody Heiman grew up on a farm in northeast Kansas. He attended Washburn University, where he played football and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and Management. Following graduation, Cody began his banking career and now has over eight years of experience. For the past four years, he has served as Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer at First Bank Kansas in Salina, Kansas. Cody is actively involved in the Salina Community. He is a member of AMBUCS, serves on the Finance Committee for The United Way in Salina, and is a member of the Young Bank Officers of Kansas. In his free time, he enjoys attending sporting events and spending time with his wife and two daughters. GWEN HILL, JD Vice President — Staff Attorney, Kansas Bankers Association, Topeka Gwen is a native Kansan and graduated from Washburn University and Washburn University School of Law. Her first experience in banking was as an Attorney with the Office of the State Bank Commissioner, where she worked for five years. She then became a Staff Attorney at the Kansas Bankers Association in 2005, working in the office for nearly 10 years before relocating with her family to Colorado. Gwen and her husband, Greg, currently live in upstate New York and have two children — a son in high school and a daughter in college. Gwen enjoys exploring both New York City and the more rural part of New York state. CHRISSY LEWMAN Vice President — Compliance, The Union State Bank of Atchison, Atchison Chrissy Lewman has worked in the banking industry for over 20 years and has learned various positions during her career. She currently works for Union State Bank of Everest in northeast Kansas as the Vice President of Compliance and has been with the bank for 12 years. Raised in central Missouri, Chrissy earned a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Missouri. She has learned to utilize her degree to better understand banking regulations and the events that led to their passing. A self-described nerd, she has a passion for compliance and making it as fun as possible for her bank. BETH MASTERSON Vice President, Loan Operations Officer, Legacy Bank, Wichita Beth has been in banking for 24 years, all with Legacy Bank. She started at the bank part-time in high school and continued while attending Wichita State University, earning her Business Administration degree. Beth continued her career at Legacy Bank after graduation as she realized she really enjoyed working for a community bank. She is the Loan Operations Officer, where she interacts directly with the Loan Operation staff along with the Lending Team. Beth serves on the board for Young Bank Officers of Kansas, a division of KBA. She resides in Wichita with her husband, Kyle, and two children, Braeden and Kylie. In her spare time, she enjoys attending her kid’s sporting events, volunteering for different school and church activities, and traveling with her family. 2025 BLOK CLASS 11
PAIGE MEADER Commercial/Ag Loan Officer, First National Bank of Kansas, Waverly Paige Meader graduated from Baker University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. After college, she started employment at Equity Bank in Kansas City, where she held multiple titles, including Treasury Management Specialist, Credit Manager and Credit Officer — mainly providing oversight to the bank’s credit portfolio quality. Paige was also part of the Due Diligence Team for Mergers and Acquisitions, specializing in credit reviews. She was with Equity Bank for eight years before returning to her family’s bank in Waverly, Kansas, in 2024 as the third-generation banker at First National Bank of Kansas (FNB). Paige is a Loan Officer at FNB, mainly focusing on commercial and agriculture lending. In her free time, Paige enjoys traveling, watching football (go Chiefs!), and reading a good book. JOEL MILFORD Officer, Correspondent Banking & Regional Lending, First National Bank of Hutchinson, Hutchinson Joel Milford, a western Kansas native, earned his Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Kansas State University. He has spent nearly six years at First National Bank of Hutchinson, gaining experience in retail, loan operations, credit administration and lending. Now an Officer of Correspondent Banking & Regional Lending, he works with community banks across the state, building relationships and supporting their goals. Active in professional development, Joel has attended commercial lending courses through the KBA/NBA Schools of Banking and serves as Vice President of the Golden Belt Bankers Association. Joel resides outside of Nickerson, Kansas, with his wife, Lauren, and three young boys: Madden, Morgan and Miles. They attend and are involved in Grace Bible Church in Hutchinson. Outside of banking, Joel enjoys hunting and being outdoors with his family. MAZIE MOBLEY Portfolio Management Manager, INTRUST Bank, N.A., Wichita Mazie Mobley is a Wichita native and has been with INTRUST Bank for over 13 years. She began her career at INTRUST Bank as a Teller in 2011, later gaining experience as a Credit Analyst, Commercial Lender and Syndication Lender before joining the Portfolio Management Team, which she now manages. Mazie earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from Wichita State University. She is actively involved in the community, serving on the board of directors for CASA of Sedgwick County and the finance committees for Child start and the Wichita Family Crisis Center. Mazie resides in Wichita with her husband, Tyler, and their two children, Cora and Cameron. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, running and reading. 2025 BLOK CLASS 12
TRENTON MOORE Market President, Equity Bank, Independence Trenton Moore grew up outside of Galesburg, Kansas, and graduated from Erie High School in 2009. After serving in the U.S. Army, he earned his degree in agronomy from Kansas State University in 2017. He began his career in agriculture, working for Mid-West Fertilizer as a Crop Scout, Technology Specialist and Location Manager. In 2021, Trenton transitioned into banking, becoming Vice President of Commercial Bank’s Erie location. Just recently he accepted the Market President position for Equity Bank in Independence, Kansas. Deeply involved in his community, Trenton has served on the Erie City Council and actively contributes to local initiatives through the Economic Development Committee and the Mainstreet Memories Team. He resides outside of Erie with his wife, Kyleigh, and their two children. KIM PARKS Senior Vice President — Treasury Management & Commercial Depository Officer, ESB Financial, Emporia Kim Parks has been in banking for 27 years, with 23 of those years at ESB Financial. She began her banking career in high school and continued working in the industry while attending Emporia State University. Kim’s concierge banking approach empowers commercial clients by providing tailored tools for success. In addition to her banking career, Kim and her husband, Brady, own and operate a construction company, giving her valuable first-hand insight into the hurdles and needs that business owners face. She is actively involved in the Emporia community, serving as a Chamber Ambassador, former Board Chair of the United Way of the Flint Hills, and current Board Chair of Emporia Enterprises. Kim and her husband reside in Emporia and have enjoyed raising their three children in the heart of the Flint Hills. SUSAN RASH Vice President, Director of Human Resources and Marketing, Community National Bank, Seneca Susan Rash grew up in Holton, Kansas, and attended Kansas State University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Communication/Management with a minor in leadership in 2014. She then worked for state associations in membership and marketing while pursuing an MBA in Human Resources from Columbia Southern University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2016 with a Certificate in Human Resources Management. Susan has held roles across the construction, manufacturing and agriculture industries, developing a passion for banking along the way. She is active in local groups related to her children’s activities and profession. She and her husband, Trent, have a cow/calf operation and reside on their family farm in Circleville, where they are raising their two sons, Casen and Wade. TYSON REIMER Commercial/Ag Loan Officer, Central National Bank, Junction City Tyson Reimer is a Commercial and Ag Lender who began his banking career at Central National Bank in 2023. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Tabor College (2020) and an MBA (2022). He serves as a Board Member and Treasurer for the Junction City Main Street Organization and actively volunteers with the youth ministry and worship team at Emmanuel Church in Abilene, Kansas. Tyson resides in Abilene with his wife, who is a first-grade teacher. 2025 BLOK CLASS 13
SARAH SANDERS First Vice President, Retail Banking Operations Officer, Capitol Federal Savings Bank, Topeka Sarah Sanders has been with Capitol Federal for over 25 years, holding various positions, from part-time Teller to Delegated BSA Compliance Officer. She currently serves as First Vice President, Retail Banking Operations Officer. Sarah earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Washburn University and an MBA from Baker University. She has led Capitol Federal through core and online banking system conversions, product implementations, and was instrumental in the integration following Capitol Federal’s acquisition of Capital City Bank in 2018. An active industry professional, Sarah participates in the ABA Overdraft Working Group, various roundtables, and holds Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) and Certified AML and Fraud Professional (CAFP) designations. She also serves on nonprofit boards and is a member of the USD 450 Board of Education. KAYCIE SCHILLING Vice President/Senior Loan Officer, FNB Bank, Goodland Kaycie Schilling has been with FNB Bank since April 2015, starting in the Credit Review Department before advancing to Senior Loan Officer. Born and raised on a cow-calf operation in central Kansas, Kaycie developed a deep passion for agriculture. In her current role, she combines this passion with finance to serve the Western Kansas and Eastern Colorado markets. She is actively involved in the Goodland community, serving on the boards of the Goodland Kiwanis Club and Chapter ID PEO and volunteering with the Topside Basketball Tournament and Meals on Wheels. Kaycie earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Kansas State University and is a recent graduate of the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking. She resides in Goodland with her husband, Clay, and their two children. THOMAS SHEIK Vice President, State Bank of Bern, Bern Thomas “Tom” Sheik graduated from Kansas State University with bachelor’s degrees in accounting and finance and a minor in economics. He later earned an MBA from Kansas State University while working as an examiner for the Kansas Office of the State Bank Commissioner (OSBC). After seven years at the OSBC, Tom went to work at The State Bank of Bern, where he is involved in all aspects of the bank’s operations and serves on the board of directors. He is also a member of YBOK and serves as President of the Nemaha County Bankers Association. Tom and his wife, Katie, have two children, Evie and Bowie. DEREK STEPHENS Commercial Relationship Manager, First Interstate Bank, Shawnee Derek Stephens has over 18 years of banking experience, including 12 years at KeyBank and three at Midland Loan Services, a division of PNC Bank. He specialized in asset management, loan servicing, and credit underwriting, spending a decade resolving complex CMBS and commercial real estate loans, including work with the FDIC. In 2022, Derek joined First Interstate Bank in Shawnee as a Commercial Relationship Manager, focusing on commercial real estate and C&I lending. He is also a 2024 graduate of the inaugural Leadership Leawood Program. A Wichita native and University of Kansas alum, Derek currently resides in Overland Park with his wife, Tracey, and their two children, Jameson and Lennox. 2025 BLOK CLASS 14
BRYAN VONFELDT Chief Financial Officer, Astra Bank, Hays Bryan VonFeldt has served as the Chief Financial Officer of Astra Bank since 2013. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and a Master’s Degree in General Business from Fort Hays State University, as well as a 2018 graduate certificate from the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at SMU. Bryan lives in Hays with his wife, Brittney, and two children, Logan and Kinlee. He has been the Head Coach for the TMP High School Boys Golf Team over the past 17 seasons and is an adjunct professor at FHSU for the Robbins Banking Institute. Bryan also serves on other local boards and committees. BRANDI ZIMMER Vice President — Deposits/Marketing, Guaranty State Bank & Trust Co., Beloit Brandi Zimmer has been with Guaranty State Bank & Trust Co. for nearly four years, primarily working in deposits, marketing and human resources. She is a graduate of Fort Hays State University and resides in Beloit with her husband, Jeff, and their two sons, George and Dayton. 2025 BLOK CLASS 15
Enjoy your association news anytime, anywhere. Scan the QR code to visit our online publication to stay up to date on the latest association news, share articles and read past issues. the-kansas-banker.thenewslinkgroup.org 16
OUTSOURCED COMPLIANCE CONSULTING The CFBS Outsourced Compliance team includes Certified Regulatory Compliance Managers (CRCM), Certified Community Bank Compliance Officers (CCBCO), and individuals with extensive compliance experience. We specialize in providing regulatory compliance expertise and management to our member banks. To provide further value, we have direct access to Kansas Bankers Association’s attorneys and the CFBS audit team. The resources available by utilizing CFBS Outsourced Compliance services are second to none. Because compliance is not a one-size-fits-all approach, CFBS Outsourced Compliance can tailor solutions to meet your bank’s needs. About GET IN TOUCH US Available to KBA Member Banks What WE DO! Compliance Management Administration Monitoring and Reporting of Everchanging Regulatory Requirements Assistance with Policy and Procedure Development and Review Board and Employee Training Compliance Committee Coordination Compliance Risk Management, Assessment, Reporting, and Monitoring Temporary and Long-Term Compliance Service Arrangements Available OUTSOURCED COMPLIANCE SERVICES Providing expert and cost-effective compliance management services to KBA member banks. Contact us at cfbs@ksbankers.com for a proposal today! (785) 232-3444 | 610 S.W. Corporate View, Topeka, KS 66615 | ksbankers.com/audit-compliance-operations/ Compliance First Banking Solutions (CFBS) has a full-scope solution for regulatory compliance management services available to KBA member banks.
2025 BANKBEAT BANKER OF THE YEAR Mariner Kemper Congratulations! Chairman & CEO UMB Financial Corporation The Kansas Bankers Association congratulates Mariner Kemper and applauds him for receiving the 2025 BankBeat Banker of the Year! CONTACT US TODAY TO PLACE YOUR ANNOUNCEMENT AD. SHOW-OFF. THERE'S NOTHING WRONG WITH BEING A Call (801) 676-9722 or scan the QR code to get started. Place QR Code Here ▷ Show off your employees. ▷ Show off your accomplishments. ▷ Show off a job well done. Employees are motivated when they are recognized and feel valued. This magazine is a great platform to celebrate your team’s accomplishments! 20
The KBA Internship Connection Program Building Banking Futures The KBA recognizes the industry’s workforce challenges. As a result, the Internship Connection Program was created to be a resource for KBA member banks to find and recruit future banking professionals. The program is a talent pipeline between our members and Kansas junior colleges, colleges and universities. As a result of KBA collegiate outreach efforts, over 500 students across eight Kansas academic institutions were exposed to career opportunities in banking. This program has broadened awareness of banking careers and fostered connections between students and industry leaders, as highlighted by Lance White, President & CEO of Bank of the Flint Hills. “At Bank of the Flint Hills, we’re proud to offer banking internships each year, rotating interns through various departments to give them a well-rounded experience. We believe it’s our responsibility to inspire the next generation to consider a career in banking, and there’s no better way to do that than by welcoming young people to join our team and gain firsthand insight into the industry.” The Internship Connection Program is flexible and is designed to allow participating financial institutions to maximize their recruiting efforts. KBA staff works directly with banks to find students who are the best fit for their institution. Throughout the year, KBA staff attend collegiate career fairs, host lunch and learns, and meet with professors and college faculty to promote internship opportunities at Kansas banks. If your institution is interested in learning more or signing up for the program, scan the QR code. https://ksbankers.com/intern-connection-program/ Lance White, President & CEO, Bank of the Flint Hills with Chancy Johnson, senior at Kansas State University studying Agribusiness with a minor in marketing. Chancy secured an internship at Bank of the Flint Hills through the KBA’s Internship Connection Program. 21
IN MEMORY KIRK BRADFORD May 25, 1953-Dec. 23, 2024 Kirk Charles Bradford, 71, of Marysville, Kansas, passed away on Dec. 23, 2024, at the Nebraska Heart Institute in Lincoln, Nebraska. Born May 25, 1953, in Lawrence, Kansas, to William “Bill” and Edith “Joan” (Morris) Bradford, Kirk grew up in Wamego and graduated from Wamego High School in 1971. He married Anne Peterson on Aug. 3, 1973, in St. Marys, Kansas. After earning a business degree from the University of Kansas in 1975, Kirk had a distinguished banking career, including serving as President and CEO of Citizens State Bank in Marysville. Kirk was an active member of the Kansas Bankers Association, serving on the Board of Directors and as Treasurer from 2004 to 2006. He was also a Director for the Bremen Farmers Mutual Insurance Company for 33 years. A convert to Catholicism at 48, Kirk embraced his faith, joining the men’s choir and serving in various capacities. He was also an avid runner, completing 63 marathons — with one in every state. Kirk loved traveling, sports and spending time outdoors with his family on their farm. He is survived by his wife, Anne; his daughter, Katie (Walker) Gray of Lawrence, Kansas; his son, Chris (Morgan) Bradford of Kerhonkson, New York; his son, Scott Bradford of Charlotte, North Carolina; five grandchildren; his sister, Ann (Jay) Yingling; and his brother, Stephen (Kim) Bradford. He was preceded in death by his parents. 22
JANA LEA PROCTOR Oct. 2, 1954-Dec. 19, 2024 Jana Lea Proctor passed away on Dec. 19, 2024, in Topeka, Kansas, surrounded by love and her family. Jana was born on Oct. 2, 1954, in Clay Center, Kansas, to James and Marjorie Woellhof. She graduated from Clay Center High School and went on to get her LPN at Manhattan Area Vocational Technical School and to Kansas State University. Jana married Rod Proctor and later moved to Topeka, Kansas, where she had a long career in banking at Fidelity State Bank and later switched to Vision Bank, where she retired. Jana loved nothing more than her faith, family and friends. She is survived by her husband, Rod Proctor; her son, Aaron Proctor and his children, Wyatt (Kate) Alexander; great-grandsons, Beau Alexander, Aidan Proctor and Kendal Proctor; her daughter, Allison Proctor and her son, Reid Oblander; her daughter, Alexa Proctor and her children, Brynn Henkle, Thomas Christensen, Kingston Christensen and Charleigh Christensen. Other survivors include two sisters, Linda (Jeff) Thompson and Marty Averill; her brother, Kim Woellhof; her brother-in-law, Bob (Jeanette) Proctor; her sister-in-law, Carolyn (Stuart) Buchmann; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. MICHAEL DRAYTON ALLDRITT Sept. 21, 1962-Nov. 27, 2024 Drayton Alldritt passed away peacefully on Nov. 27, 2024, at the age of 62, surrounded by his wife, Tina, and his mother, Kay. Born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on Sept. 21, 1962, to David and Kay Alldritt, Drayton spent most of his life in Wichita after the family returned there in 1964. A graduate of Wichita East High School (1980) and Harvard University (1984), Drayton built a successful 40-year career in banking and consulting. He was a devoted father to his four children, Justin (Rebecca), Josh (Quinn), Bob (Sarah) and Amelia, and a proud grandfather to Arthur. He is also survived by his wife, Tina; her son, Dylan; his mother, Kay; his siblings, Bear (Jean) and Megan (Steve); and a large extended family. Drayton lived a vibrant life, embracing roles as a father, banker, coach, skier, entrepreneur and adventurer. He married Tina, the love of his life, in 2023, and together, they created unforgettable memories. Drayton’s legacy is one of compassion, adventure and an enduring connection to family and friends. He will be dearly missed. LEWIS EDWARD “LEW” McATEE Nov. 6, 1936-Jan. 9, 2025 Lewis Edward “Lew” McAtee of Ellsworth, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Jan. 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born Nov. 6, 1936, Lew lived a life devoted to faith, family and community. After graduating from Ellsworth High School in 1954, Lew served in the U.S. Navy before earning a business degree from Fort Hays State University in 1961. He married Carol Daniels in 1959, and 23
they raised five children before her passing in 1982. In 1988, Lew married Cindy White Thompson, and together, they raised two more children. Lew’s banking career began as a national bank examiner and culminated with leadership roles at Citizens State Bank and Trust Co., where he served as President, CEO and Board Chairman. He received the Kansas Bankers Association’s 50-Year Club Award in 2012. Dedicated to Ellsworth, Lew served as Mayor, Chamber of Commerce President and on various boards, including the local hospital and development initiatives. He played key roles in projects like Krizek Park, the tennis courts and transitioning the golf course to public use. In 1996, he was named Ellsworth County Citizen of the Year. Lew loved golf, roulette and traveling, especially winters in Arizona. Above all, he cherished his family and their gatherings, taking pride in their accomplishments. Known for his sharp wit and humor, he brought laughter to all who knew him. Lew is survived by his wife of 36 years, Cindy; six children; 20 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren (with two on the way); and two brothers. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Carol; his parents; his brother, Frank Jr.; and his son, Jeff. JOEL GENRICH July 25, 1967-Jan. 20, 2025 With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of Joel David Genrich, 57, on Jan. 20, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born July 25, 1967, in Beatrice, Nebraska, to Robert and LeeAnn Genrich, Joel’s warmth and vibrant spirit touched all who knew him. A creative soul with a competitive edge, he excelled in building models and tennis at Beatrice High School before attending Northwest Missouri State University, where he met his wife, Christina Gibson. Joel and Christina married on Oct. 12, 1991, at Hope Lutheran Church, building a life together filled with love and devotion. They raised two sons, Myles and Matthew, who brought him immense pride and joy. Joel cherished family time, from sports events to travel adventures in places like Sedona, Estes Park and Disney World. As Senior Vice President Loan Officer at Kaw Valley Bank, Joel was dedicated and respected. He was also a proud member of Faith Lutheran Church and the Rotary Club. A homebody at heart, he enjoyed Nebraska Huskers and Chiefs football, trains, models, history and his beloved dogs. Joel is survived by his wife, Christina; sons, Myles (Abby) and Matthew; mother, LeeAnn; brother, Dan (Darcy); sister, Elizabeth (Chad) Langford; in-laws, Alice (Larry) Ishmael and Dale (Edna) Gibson; sisters-in-law, Michelle (Casey) Schroff and Connie (Ryan) Armstrong; and nine nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert, and grandparents. Joel will be deeply missed by all who loved him. 24
Educating Professionals, Creating Leaders gsb.org GRADUATE SCHOOL OF BANKING July 27 - August 8, 2025 This 25-month leadership development program provides the tools you need to be successful in your banking career. At GSB, you’ll develop the critical thinking skills and leadership talents to manage change and motivate people by drawing on a clear understanding of all areas of financial services management. Plus, you’ll earn a Certificate of Executive Leadership from the Wisconsin School of Business in addition to a GSB diploma. DIGITAL BANKING SCHOOL Offered Virtually Starting March 3 The first school of its kind – to help community banks grow in the digital banking space, with a focus on on innovation, digital product mix, customer engagement, technology, vendor partnerships and more. BANK TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT SCHOOL April 7 - 11, 2025 Created especially for financial services IT professionals, this popular and respected program explores critical banking and technology issues. Gain an in-depth understanding of bank profitability, technology management, security and more. 2025 GSB SCHOOLS INVEST IN CAREER DEVELOPMENT! HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT SCHOOL April 28 - May 2, 2025 Designed for financial services HR professionals to help tie together important banking and HR issues, this school will expand your knowledge of the business of banking, human resource management and employee performance. FINANCIAL MANAGERS SCHOOL September 22 - 26, 2025 This school goes beyond the basics to present best practices and solutions to today’s most critical financial management decisions. Designed by experienced CFOs to provide the tools you need to build a solid foundation in asset/liability management. BANK CYBERSECURITY SCHOOL October 13 - 17, 2025 This school will give you the practical insights to mitigate the risk of fraud. Includes an in-depth, interactive study of the latest IT security best practices, including information security law, IT security management, virtualization, infrastructure, network penetration testing, ethical web hacking, AI and mobile defense. STRATEGIC MARKETING PROGRAMS Details TBA GSB’s innovative marketing programs integrate critical marketing and business development strategies with the business of banking – covering key topics like marketing planning, branding, content and digital marketing, customer acquisitions, customer experience, data management, goals setting, and more, all in the context bank leadership. Watch for details on future offerings at GSB.org FIND DETAILS AND ENROLL AT GSB.ORG JOIN OUR MAILING LIST TO LEARN MORE! SPONSORED BY:
Sheraton Overland Park Hotel & Convention Center Overland Park, Kansas May 14 – 16, 2025 Jeff Levine Kitces.com Mitch Holthus Voice of the Kansas City Chiefs Samuel A Donaldson J.D. Professor of Law at Georgia State University Amy Florian CEO of Corgenius For more details and registration information, please visit our website at mokantrustconf.com For more information, please contact: Kelly VanZwoll, Vice President, Government Relations/ Staff Attorney, Kansas Bankers Association Phone: 785.232.3444 kvanzwoll@ksbankers.com Agenda coming soon! MOKAN TRUST & FINANCIAL SERVICES CONFERENCE 46TH ANNUAL
Post-Election Tax Outlook By Sam Brandt, Tax Senior Manager, Forvis Mazars With Republicans winning control of the White House and Congress, we now have a clearer picture of the tax policies that will be pursued in 2025 and beyond. Priorities under consideration include the expiration of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, proposals made by President Trump during the campaign, and bipartisan legislation that passed in the House earlier in 2024 but did not pass in the Senate. Although achieving these aims will likely be easier under a Republican trifecta, there remains uncertainty about how such legislation will be enacted, given the party’s slim majorities, constraints of using budget reconciliation, choice of funding mechanisms and concerns regarding the impact of tax cuts on the national debt. Without congressional action, many of the TCJA provisions will expire at the end of 2025. Republicans have expressed interest in extending or making many of these provisions permanent. While banks organized as C corporations benefited from having the tax rate permanently lowered to 21%, a majority of the expiring TCJA provisions would impact individuals and shareholders of banks organized as S corporations. For example, without action by Congress, individual tax rates would increase to pre-TCJA levels with a top rate of 39.6%. The individual Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) exemption and threshold would be greatly reduced, with the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimating 7.22 million taxpayers being subject to AMT from a current level of around 200,000. The standard deduction and child tax credit would be reduced, but the personal exemption would return. The 199A Qualified Business Income deduction, which provides up to a 20% deduction for qualified income, is also set to sunset after 2025, significantly impacting shareholders of banks organized as S corporations. The estate and gift tax exemption threshold would be approximately halved from the current level of $13.6 million per individual. The sunsetting of the SALT cap, which limits an individual’s itemized state and local tax deductions to $10,000, would provide relief to some individual taxpayers. However, this benefit is likely to be reduced without simultaneous increases 27
As new tax bills are crafted and introduced, 2025 will be a time of heightened tax planning as taxpayers navigate these changes. to the AMT threshold and because the Pease limitation is currently set to be reinstated in 2026. The original passage of the TCJA included several revenue raisers that Congress has subsequently sought to modify. These proposals include a more favorable calculation to the Section 163(j) business interest expense limitation, allowing full expensing again of domestic §174 research and development and restoring 100% bonus depreciation. These changes were packaged into the 2024 Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act, which passed in the House with bipartisan support but failed to advance in the Senate. Given the support many of these items garnered, they will likely be considered in future legislation. While much of the energy in Washington is expected to be directed at the expiring TCJA provisions, a variety of other proposals were made by President Trump during the campaign. For individuals, this includes the elimination of taxes on Social Security benefits, tip income and overtime wages, as well as a deduction for interest on car loans. Business tax proposals included a further reduction in the corporate tax rate to 15% for corporations with domestic production activities. A large part of the tax legislation is expected to be enacted using the budget reconciliation process. Under reconciliation, legislation can be passed with a simple majority in the Senate, but the process comes with restrictions. Deficit creation is allowed during the initial 10-year window but must be neutral afterward, which may reduce the ability to make some of the proposed legislation permanent without the inclusion of offsetting revenue-raising measures. The CBO estimates that extending the TCJA provisions alone will increase the federal deficit by $4.6 trillion over the next 10 years. With Republicans holding slim majorities in the House and Senate, there may be challenges in reaching a consensus among members on the extent to which the deficit should be increased. To lessen the deficit impact, Republicans have suggested increasing tariffs and rolling back Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) credits. These will likely face some resistance in Congress as many members will be unwilling to substantially increase tariffs and many of the projects supported by the IRA are located within Republican districts. This year is poised for significant tax legislation, with Republicans aiming to extend key TCJA provisions and introduce new tax cuts. The overall tax environment is expected to favor continued low taxes. As new tax bills are crafted and introduced, 2025 will be a time of heightened tax planning as taxpayers navigate these changes. Sam Brandt is tax senior manager with Forvis Mazars in Kansas City. 28
www.thenewslinkgroup.orgRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTg3NDExNQ==