agencies were fairly independent of the political winds and consistent from one administration to the next. That has changed dramatically over the last few administrations. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is the best example. Their agenda and rulemakings are driven by the political motivations of whatever political party has the presidency. This leads to a pendulum effect when it comes to regulations and enforcement. Community banks will follow whatever the rules dictate, but the rules need to be consistent. In your opinion, what is the most exciting trend or development in banking right now? Consumers are starting to come back to community banks. The big bank failures last year reminded people that community banks are stable over time and have diverse sources of deposits. People are also learning that they are just a number with the big banks, and they want more personal service than that. What recent professional challenge taught you an important lesson, and how did you overcome it? I didn’t really have to learn to work remotely during the pandemic. I have been traveling a lot with ICBA over the last couple years, and I have had to learn how to keep things moving when I am out of the office. I have learned that a lot can be done with an iPad and cell phone! What is the thing you have done/accomplished, professionally or personally, that you are most proud of? One of the things I am most proud of is that my bank helped get a girls varsity soccer team started at Covington High School. About five years ago, the school had enough girls to start a separate team from the boys, but they needed funding. We gave them $42,000 over three years to get them up and running. Things like that can happen when people bank with their local community bank. Video Extra Lucas is a fierce advocate for community banks, saying in his chairman’s address at ICBA LIVE, “We have the best banking model in the world, right here [in the U.S.], but every day we face new challenges, and lately it feels like we’re under attack.” If you are interested in getting involved in grassroots advocacy, reach out to the IBA government relations team. Lucas also unveiled a new email at ICBA LIVE – LobbyWithLucas@ICBA.org – if you would like to speak directly with him. Scan the QR code to watch his entire chairman’s address. Lucas and his family at a reception in his honor at ICBA LIVE on March 15, 2024. Lucas and Graham in Grand Cayman in the Caribbean. (from left) Oliver, Lucas and Lyric White rafting in the Grand Tetons in Wyoming MAY/JUNE 2024 15
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