What has banking taught you about trust, relationships and service? One of the greatest lessons banking has taught me is that trust is earned one relationship at a time. Every opportunity I’ve had throughout my career has been the result of relationships that were built over time, with customers, coworkers, community members and fellow bankers. Customers place an incredible amount of trust in their community banker, especially in rural communities where you know one another personally. Service is really at the heart of community banking. We help families achieve their dreams by supporting local businesses and investing in the future of our communities. What does it mean to you to serve as KBA Chairman, and what opportunities do you see for Kansas banks? It truly is an honor, and I recognize that it would not be possible to serve if I didn’t have an amazing team at the bank and also a very supportive family. There are so many outstanding bankers across Kansas, and I’m humbled to have the opportunity to serve alongside them. What excites me most is continuing to build on the momentum the Kansas Bankers Association has established. We have an incredible leader and team at the KBA and bankers across the state who genuinely care about their communities. My goal is to build on that work while helping prepare the next generation of banking leaders. Community banks remain essential to the success of Kansas. Whether someone is buying their first home, starting a business, expanding a farming operation or growing their family, community banks are there every step of the way. We need to continue advocating for policies that allow us to serve our customers efficiently while reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens. I also believe we have a responsibility to mentor future bankers and encourage young professionals to become involved in their communities and in organizations like KBA. Our industry has a bright future if we’re willing to invest in the people who will lead it next. Tell us about your family and what you enjoy doing outside of work. Karrie and I met while attending Northwestern Oklahoma State University, and we’ve built our life together here in southwest Kansas. We’re blessed with four children: Sloan and her husband, Kole Konrade; Reece and his wife, Hannah; Braton and his fiancée, Emily; and our youngest, Kinley, who is currently attending Wichita State University. We’re also proud grandparents to Kora and Kayson Konrade. Family is 9
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