Hoosier Banker 15 “We are doing a lot of exciting things at the IBA right now. We are in the process of relocating our main office, launching the redesign of the Hoosier Banker, engaging in a robust professional development program for our staff, hosting a new women’s conference and rolling out the BankTalentHQ tool. “This fall we are holding a strategic planning retreat for our board of directors. The retreat will focus on how the IBA can continue to provide a high level of service to our members throughout the coming years. As the banking model is transformed by the changing social, economic and political environments, the Association must adjust to meet the changing needs of our membership. “Our mission is: ‘To advocate for and sustain an environment in which banks can succeed.’ Our goals should always be focused on upholding that mission.” How can the IBA help member banks address industry challenges? “The IBA will be a national leader in advocating for thoughtful and balanced deregulation, on both the state and national levels. We will work toward loosening the chokehold that government has on our members’ ability to serve their customers and communities well. “We can also be a resource for our members, as banking leadership roles transition from the boomer generation to Gen X and millennials. We must be proactive and vigilant in assessing a rapidly changing environment, while listening intently to the needs of our member banks. “We will continue to educate and advocate for our membership, while providing ample opportunity for networking. When Indiana bankers need resources, we want them to think of the IBA first, whether it be for education, products and services, communications or advocacy. If we don’t have the answer, we will find it for you.” How might recent changes to the political landscape affect banking? “There is a renewed sense on Capitol Hill that we have a better chance than ever for meaningful regulatory reform. Indiana has two congressional members on the House Financial Services Committee, Reps. Luke Messer and Trey Hollingsworth, and one on the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, & Urban Affairs, Sen. Joe Donnelly. “All three congressmen are excellent advocates for the banking industry, but they need our support. If ever there was a time to make our voices heard, it is now. The IBA will be engaging in a high-level grassroots PHOTO CAPTION: U.S. Rep. Trey Hollingsworth, second from right, meets with Amber Van Til and a contingent of Indiana bankers in Washington, D.C. Hollingsworth is a member of the House Financial Services Committee. Shown are (from left): David Findlay, Lake City Bank, Warsaw; Van Til; Jeff Knight, Old National Bank, Evansville; Rep. Hollingsworth; and Mike Bauer, WesBanco Bank, New Albany. Photo courtesy of Carrie Clark/American Bankers Association. Paul Freeman, IBA executive vice president, and Amber Van Til participate in the Association’s first Employee of the Month staff name drawing. Van Til implemented the monthly recognition program as part of a professional development initiative.
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