Hoosier Banker 17 In October the Indiana Bankers Association hosted over 700 Indiana bankers at the Mega Conference in downtown Indianapolis, the first time the event has been held in person since the onset of the pandemic. The event kicked off Monday night with a reception at The Westin Indianapolis in appreciation of our associate members. Later, the traditional hospitality suite was hosted by IBA Chairman Michael S. Zahn. Tuesday morning brought the official start of the educational programming, with 12 different learning tracks for attendees to choose from. The luncheon keynote speaker, John O’Leary, spoke movingly about how to live a radically inspired life. O’Leary, who was nearly killed in a fire accident as a child, encouraged the audience to “live on fire.” Also at the Tuesday luncheon, awards were presented to Diamond Associate Members. Additionally, a slideshow video was shown depicting Five Star Member awards being hand-delivered to Five Star banks by IBA staff. On Tuesday evening, attendees gathered in the exhibit hall for the Mega Celebration to network over appetizers and drinks. Following the Mega Celebration, the IBA hosted a reception honoring Paul Freeman, who retired on Sept. 30 after 34 years with the IBA. Earlier that day, he had been presented with the Distinguished Hoosier Award by Sen. Travis Holdman, and at the reception Chairman Zahn presented Paul with a plaque of appreciation. That evening, the IBA Future Leadership Division also held a networking reception at the Yard House restaurant. Wednesday brought further educational sessions and a keynote by speaker Jeff Havens titled, “Uncrapify Your Future.” The keynote used humor to address how to bring innovation into organizations. At Wednesday’s luncheon, the finalists and winners of the 2020 Commitment to Community Awards were recognized. This award showcases exceptional community bank outreach in Indiana. Congratulations to Community First Bank of Indiana, Kokomo, the winner in the category of banks under $500 million in assets, and to Centier Bank, Merrillville, the winner in the category of banks over $500 million in assets. The winner of the Indiana BANKPAC sweepstakes drawing was Robert Schafstall of Mutual Savings Bank, Franklin. He won a scenic trip for two to the Canadian Rockies and Glacier National Park. The 2021 Mega Conference wrapped up on Wednesday afternoon after additional prize drawings and educational sessions. Thank you to all who attended, and many thanks to our generous sponsors. We hope to see you at next year’s Mega Conference, scheduled for May 9-11, 2022, at the Indiana Convention Center. HB Emily Brooks Member Engagement Specialist Indiana Bankers Association ebrooks@indiana.bank
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