2018 Vol. 102 No. 3

6 MAY / JUNE 2018 Amber R. Van Til President and CEO Indiana Bankers Association avantil@indianabankers.org @grbanker VANTAGE VIEWPOINTS Finally, we’ve made it to the month of May! It’s been a long wait, but often the best things in life are worth waiting for. They’re also worth preparing for, and preparation is very much a theme these days at the Indiana Bankers Association. As I’ve been writing about recently, your IBA team has been working diligently on a new strategic plan for the next three years. And what a plan it is. In my most recent column, I indicated that our new strategic plan has five pillars. Bit by bit, we’ve been shaping the details of these pillars to convert them from lofty ideas into robust action plans. Below is a quick recap, but I invite you to click on the icon at right in HB Digital to access a detailed brochure, or visit the web link provided: 1. Tell the Story – We will “tell the story” of banking through traditional and social media to raise public awareness of banks’ good deeds in support of the communities they serve. 2. Fiscal Strength –We will enhance IBA fiscal strength through efficiency, transparency, establishment of clear fiscal policies, and exploration of new streams of revenue. 3. Education – We will expand educational opportunities by engaging in new delivery channels and leveraging technology to meet the diverse needs of IBA members. 4. Government Relations – We will strengthen our collective voice by enhancing grassroots lobbying outreach and by increasing member support of the Indiana BANKPAC. 5. Next-Gen Bankers – We will engage with the next generation to invite the best and the brightest into the industry, and to retain top talent in Indiana banking. These are only starting points. The real effort comes from mapped-out action plans complete with goals, measures, timeframes and accountability. I have been cautioned that the full, detailed version of this plan borders on being overly ambitious, but consider this: The IBA has 100 percent participation of Indiana-based banks, substantial reserves, continued advocacy victories, unparalleled educational offerings, and a talented and tenured staff. Anything less than ambitious would be inconsistent with what our members have come to know and expect. I am confident that we can and will uphold the high standards of our new strategic plan, thanks to capable professionals in the Indiana banking community. From member bankers to service providers to elected officials, we are surrounded by quality in every direction. We also have the benefit of support from both national bank trade associations. You’ll note that our cover story in this issue features Rob Nichols, president and CEO of the American Bankers Association. In the next issue, we plan to feature Rebeca Romero Rainey, new president and CEO of the Independent Community Bankers of America. Additionally I’d like to guide your attention to a touching farewell column on page 18, authored by Cam Fine, retired ICBA president and CEO. He has led the industry to many victories during his tenure, and we thank him for his able leadership. One final note on the topic of leadership. Recently I served on a leadership panel at a women’s conference, hosted by the Indiana Society of Association Executives. A question I was asked was, who is a female leader I admire? My answer was simple: my mother. Throughout my life, my mother has led by example through her fortitude, confidence and professionalism. She has also consistently modeled the equally important traits of kindness, caring and compassion. This May, as we celebrate Mother’s Day, I’ll enjoy the day as a mom, blessed with healthy, happy sons. But I’ll treasure the day as the lucky daughter of Mrs. Judy Moore, who I am honored to call my mother. HB To view a brochure detailing the IBA Strategic Plan, click on the hand icon in HB Digital, or go to: indianabankers.org/about. IBA Strategic Plan Annual Washington Trip Sept. 30-Oct. 2 Join the chorus, and make your voice heard at our nation’s capital. FLD Leadership Conference Oct. 15-16 Emerging bank leaders come together for networking, leadership-building and inspiration. Banking on Women Conference Nov. 13-14 Women in banking gather to unlock potential, build confidence and own the future. Don’t Miss Out! Save the Dates for These IBA Events

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