Hoosier Banker 19 New Day Rising! In August, more than 450 members of the Indiana Bankers Association joined together in French Lick for the Annual Convention, themed “New Day Rising,” presented by UnitedHealthcare. This marked the end of a long two-year in-person pause on the event due to the pandemic, and it was great to be together again. The event kicked off Sunday morning with a golf tournament at the Donald Ross Course, sponsored by Krieg DeVault LLP, followed by an evening reception in the exhibit hall and the Chairman’s Banquet, sponsored by IBA Group Insurance Trust. Pre-dinner entertainment at the Chairman’s Banquet was provided by artist, vocalist and internet sensation Joe Everson, thanks to the sponsorship of SmithAmundsen LLC. Everson sang while painting a live-action, patriotic artwork. His artwork plus another Everson original were later sold at the live auction benefiting Indiana BANKPAC. At the banquet, 2021 Chairman Michael S. Zahn was honored for his contributions this year, and the chairman’s gavel was ceremoniously passed to 2022 Chairman Garry D. Kleer. Zahn was also presented with a Sagamore of the Wabash award by State Sen. Andy Zay and Tom Fite, director of the Indiana Department of Financial Institutions. Sen. Zay was also presented the 2021 IBA Legislator of the Year award by Dax Denton, senior vice president of government relations. To conclude the evening, the grand prize drawing took place, with Kevin Bender of the Bank of Wolcott winning a multi-gem cabochon necklace in 14-karat gold, which he accepted along with his wife, Denise. On Monday morning, members attended general sessions on varying topics, and in addition had the opportunity to hear from representatives of the Independent Community Bankers of America and the American Bankers Association. IBA Annual Convention ‘New Day Rising’ for Indiana bankers At Monday’s lunch, sponsored by The Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis, incoming Chairman Garry Kleer shared his plans for the coming year, and the election of officers took place. After the proceedings, attendees heard a keynote address from Cassi Chandler on the subject of servant leadership. That afternoon, the IBA held the induction ceremony for the 2020 and 2021 classes of Leaders in Banking Excellence. The IBA recognized 17 honorees who have been an integral part of the success of their institutions, their communities and Indiana banking. U.S. Sen. Mike Braun and Tom Fite offered comments, as well as each of the honorees. Monday evening brought the Future Leadership Division auction and dinner, sponsored by The KeyState Companies. Members had the opportunity to bid on silent auction items such as sporting event tickets, designer accessories, decorative pieces, sports memorabilia and specialty items to support Indiana BANKPAC. Live auction items included a guitar signed by Tom Petty, a bottle of rare Pappy Van Winkle bourbon and more. At the end of the evening, over $37,000 had been raised for the PAC, smashing recent fundraising totals by more than $10,000. Kicking off Tuesday morning’s breakfast, IBA President and CEO Amber Van Til, 2021 Chairman Mike Zahn and 2022 Chairman Garry Kleer discussed the state of the association. Afterward, attendees heard a keynote from speaker Traci Brown, a body language expert, who gave insight on how to spot fraudsters. After breakfast, exhibitor prize drawings were announced and several more educational sessions were offered before the conference concluded at noon. Thanks to all who attended this year’s convention, and a special thanks to all our generous sponsors. Be sure to join us for next year’s Annual Convention, scheduled for Sept. 11-13, 2022, in French Lick. HB Emily Brooks Member Engagement Specialist Indiana Bankers Association ebrooks@indiana.bank
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