Evan Hoffmeyer Assistant Vice President - Communications Indiana Bankers Association ehoffmeyer@indiana.bank Nearly 450 members of the Indiana banking community gathered Sept. 11-13 in French Lick for the Indiana Bankers Association Annual Convention, themed “Celebrating 125 Years of Indiana Banking,” presented by UnitedHealthcare. The event kicked off Sunday morning with a golf tournament at the Donald Ross Course, sponsored by Krieg DeVault LLP. That evening featured two backto-back receptions. First up was a reception honoring Laura Wilson, IBA’s vice president of communications, for her 35 years of service as she prepares to retire Dec. 31. That was followed by the traditional opening reception in the exhibit hall and then the Chairman’s Banquet, sponsored by IBA Group Insurance Trust. Post-dinner entertainment at the Chairman’s Banquet was provided by groundbreaking a cappella ensemble Tonic Sol-fa, thanks to the sponsorship of SmithAmundsen LLC, now known as Amundsen Davis LLC. At the banquet, 2022 Chairman Garry D. Kleer was honored for his contributions this year, and the chairman’s gavel was ceremoniously passed to 2023 Chairman Jamie Shinabarger. Kleer was also presented with a Sagamore of the Wabash by State Rep. Brad Barrett, R-Richmond. Gov. Eric Holcomb expressed disappointment he was not able to attend the event to present it personally, but extended an invitation for Kleer to join him at the Statehouse for a private ceremony at a later date. The evening concluded with the grand prize drawing. Joe Moorman of The Napoleon State Bank won the stunning, round diamond station necklace in 14K gold. Education sessions began on Monday, with topics ranging from diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) to balancing technology with the human touch, attracting the right talent in a competitive market, and solar tax credit investments. Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from representatives of the Independent Community Bankers of America and the American Bankers Association. At Monday’s lunch, sponsored by The Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis, incoming Chairman Jamie Shinabarger shared his plans for the coming year, and the election of officers took place. After the proceedings, attendees heard a keynote address from Gene Marks on “The Coming Recession.” State Sen. Chris Garten, R-Charlestown, was recognized as the 2022 IBA Legislator of the Year. He was unable to attend the ceremony, so he was recognized in a video with testimonials from IBA Chief Policy Officer Dax Denton and Syd Whitlock, president of NWSB, formerly known as New Washington State Bank. The video also included a message of appreciation from Sen. Garten to the IBA for the honor. 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 Eric Clapton, two Allen Edmonds Shoe Shopping Experiences and more. At the end of the evening, over $37,000 had been raised for the PAC, setting a record for the event. Kicking off Tuesday morning’s breakfast, a “fireside chat” on the state of the association was hosted by the IBA Executive Committee: President & CEO Amber R. Van Til, Chairman Garry D. Kleer, First Vice Chairman Jamie Shinabarger, Second Vice Chair Benjamin J. Bochnowski and Immediate Past Chairman Michael S. Zahn. Afterward, attendees heard a keynote from speaker V.J. Smith on how you don’t need money, power or title to make a difference in life. 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 Aug. 27-29, 2023, in French Lick. HB Hoosier Banker 39
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