2023 BLOK Sponsors INTRUST Bank, N.A. FHLBank Topeka KBA Insurance, Inc. Professional Bank Consultants, LLC Bankers’ Bank of Kansas Deputy Bank Commissioner Tim Kemp (right, standing) and members of his team gave the BLOK Class an overview of the Office of the State Bank Commissioner. After an overview of the program by KBA’s SVP — Government Relations Alex Orel, the class got to know each other during an ice-breaker exercise where many laughs and personal stories were shared. Next, a complete summary of the history, structure, and governance of the KBA was outlined followed by staff spotlights, allowing senior management to share their roles and areas of expertise and how each department at the KBA can assist them and their banks. The BLOK class then enjoyed dinner and more time to get acquainted with the KBA staff. Day two focused on state advocacy and began with an interactive presentation on the legislative process led by Orel and KBA AVP — Government Relations Kelly VanZwoll. The BLOK class then participated in the KBA Harold A. Stones Government Relations Conference, followed by a legislative reception at the Topeka Country Club. The third day of Session 1 started with the class networking with KBA Board members and sitting in on the first hour of the board meeting. The class then transitioned to downtown Topeka to hear from Deputy Bank Commissioner Tim Kemp about the role of the Office of the State Bank Commissioner as our state financial institutions regulator. The class was then treated to a legislative panel in a Statehouse committee room. The panel featured Senate Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee Chair Sen. Jeff Longbine; House Appropriations Chair Rep. Troy Waymaster; House Financial Institutions & Pensions Committee Chair Rep. Nick Hoheisel; and House Financial Institutions & Pensions Committee Member Rep. Rebecca Schmoe. Following the legislative panel, the group received a behind-the-scenes tour of the Capitol building, including a tour of the House chamber by Speaker of the House Dan Hawkins. During the visit to the Senate chamber, Senator Longbine recognized the class during the Senate’s general session. The 2023 BLOK Class will have their second session in Kansas City on May 24–26. Kelsey Burdiek, United Bank & Trust, Seneca, (left) and James Leftwich, Security 1st Title, Wichita, share a laugh as the class breaks the ice. Garet King, Fusion Bank, Overland Park, (right) demonstrated how a bill becomes a law in an exercise facilitated by KBA’s SVP Government Relations, Alex Orel. 9
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