6 MARCH / APRIL 2021 Is it “new normal” yet? We toss around that phrase as if we can predict what it means and when it will begin. It’s tempting to hope that the new normal will look like the “old” normal. Probably, though, the new normal will be more of a hybrid. Some businesses are examining how they might be more efficient, cost-effective and attractive to new hires if they continue to offer a degree of the work-from-home flexibility that has now become familiar. Medical offices may be promoting more online consultations, schools may consider hybrid options, houses of worship may blend online services with in-person gatherings – all options are open for discussion. We have the encouragement of vaccines leading us to the new normal, though the target date for herd immunity keeps jumping around. We’re grateful that at least it’s on the horizon. For now, let’s stop for a moment and consider how much we’ve all been through. This March represents the one-year anniversary of living with COVID-19 in the United States. Anniversaries are generally either celebrated, when the triggering event is joyful, or instead commemorated, when the anniversary marks a sad occurrence. In this case, we can use the familiar word “hybrid,” because beyond the sad memories of the past year, there’s a dose of happiness, too. This past year we lived through unthinkable circumstances, demonstrating once again that the Indiana banking community is strong, resilient and committed to the betterment of others. In this issue of Hoosier Banker, we have devoted our cover story to banking in the age of COVID-19, offering samples from member banks about how they creatively managed to stay connected with customers and communities throughout the pandemic. Whether through major initiatives or small gestures, the emphasis was on nurturing relationships. The key to banking is relationships, after all. Whether in-person or through digital/socially distanced means, community banks provide financial services to their customers by fostering close relationships and actively engaging in their communities. Community banks are community helpers, continually assessing local needs and assisting through donation of time, talent and treasure. Being relationship-based is woven into the fabric of community banking, because community bank customers are more than clients to bank associates – they are neighbors, friends and members of the same community. Within Indiana, there are more than 30,000 banking professionals serving their fellow Hoosiers from 2,000+ branches and offices across the state. Efforts made in the past year by the member banks of the Indiana Bankers Association include working long hours to process Paycheck Protection Program loans on behalf of businesses. In our state, not VANTAGE VIEWPOINT Don’t Miss Out! only did banks help bring nearly $10 billion in support to Hoosier small businesses in 2020, but this year through Feb. 28, Indiana banks have assisted in securing more than 34,000 loans totaling $2,567,058,549 in funding. As we move forward with a new normal for PPP loans, there are some changes from last year, as the Biden-Harris Administration endeavors to increase lending and promote equitable access to relief. We’ve been communicating with you regarding details of these changes and will continue to do so as new developments take place. In the meantime, as the vaccine rollout continues, it will become easier for you to meet with clients to help them with their many banking needs. It also will become easier for the IBA to resume the in-person activities that we all enjoy and benefit from. The first in-person event on our calendar is the IBA Annual Washington Trip, scheduled for July 18-20. Yes, we’re going to D.C., and there will be much to talk about. Because we have a new administration, new regulators and new lawmakers, your voice is needed now more than ever. Please plan to join us as we advocate for the industry. There’s more to come, too, with the events shown in the Don't Miss Out box below, plus the Mega Conference, Oct. 11-13, and the Banking on Women Conference, Nov. 3-4. Please check out our online calendar at indiana.bank/calendar for updates about additional events and opportunities. Your IBA staff is eager to see you again, in person, as we navigate the new normal together. HB Amber R. Van Til President and CEO Indiana Bankers Association avantil@indiana.bank @grbanker Annual Washington Trip July 18-20 Join the chorus and make your voice heard on industry issues at our nation’s capital. Annual Convention Aug. 15-17 Bank leaders convene, connect and conduct IBA business in scenic French Lick. FLD Leadership Conference Sept. 21-22 Emerging leaders build skills and strengthen networks at this premier FLD event. For event updates, visit: indiana.bank/calendar
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