It’s April Fool’s Day today, and I cannot help but think about how crazy the world has become in a relatively short time. I’m not quite sure who the fools are, but I may have some idea! One thing I do know is that my time as MIB President is winding down, and it would be foolish not to reflect on the past few years and see what I can glean from my time as the MIB President.
When I found myself occupying the President’s seat, I wondered how things might go during the next couple of years. I had high hopes of possibly traveling and meeting more MIB bankers and perhaps recruiting some new ones. I love a good road trip, and with the distance between Montana’s independent banks and their towns, I was sure I would get to see much of this beautiful state. I didn’t anticipate that a worldwide pandemic would shut everything down and keep us all close to home for the better part of two years. Oh, how the turntables turned!
So, my dream of gallivanting all over Montana recruiting new members and shoring up old relationships kind of went up in smoke or maybe died behind a surgical mask, so to speak. In the end, we did what we could at the MIB to keep the association working on behalf of all Montana independent banks. We launched a new digital advertising campaign designed to bring community bank awareness to all Montanans. We all believe we bring something special to our communities in the way of financial support and community involvement.
It is imperative we continue to beat this drum so the people of this great state – and the nation, for that matter – don’t forget they have an ally in community banks. The MIB tirelessly fights the good fight and works with our national affiliate, the ICBA, to pressure lawmakers to do the right thing on behalf of community banks in Montana. We also keep a very close eye on the state legislature to ensure they act in the best interest of all Montanans and particularly those who rely so much on independent community banks. Most small Montana towns have an independent bank that is a vital community partner. So, the MIB is ever vigilant, ensuring we can do what we do unencumbered without unnecessary or overreaching laws. We believe in the mission of service and the importance of community banking in Montana.
As I look back on my tenure as MIB President, one thing remains abundantly clear. The bankers of Montana are some of the best people I’ve ever met. While we are technically competitors, I’ve never felt a greater sense of camaraderie than I have when a bunch of community bankers gathers. We all are passionate about what we do, and the unity behind the cause supersedes any hint of rivalry. We all want the same thing, and we all are willing to work for it. I am continually astounded at the quality of the folks encountered as I attend various functions. Bankers are just genuinely nice people who like to help others. I’m very proud to be a part of such a magnanimous group.
While my time as the MIB President is winding down, I will certainly remain on the Board and continue to devote my energies to supporting community banking generally and the MIB specifically. I would urge all of you to get involved with the association on some level and to encourage any of your non-member banker friends to join up. The benefits of a strong organization cannot be overstated. Plus, the absolute fun you can have hanging out with MIB bankers must be seen to be believed. You may even get a tabletop skiing lesson in the bar if you stay up late enough! (If you know Tom, you know!)
Overall, I cannot say enough positive things about the Montana Independent Bankers. I would like to also mention our distinguished and exceptionally competent Executive Director, Jim Brown. Jim has been a constant at the MIB for a long time, and I want to take a moment to publicly thank him for his guidance and friendship. He is a rock and a rock star that adds immeasurably to the credibility of the organization. We appreciate you!
Lastly, to all the people who have become my friends throughout the years and who have been supportive during my time as MIB President, I would like to thank you as well. This time has been a great honor for me professionally, and I am grateful for the opportunity. I have learned so much and benefitted greatly from the MIB and the people behind it. You are all the best! Get involved, make some new friends, and you might be surprised how saying yes positively affects your life. It’ll be worth your time, I promise.
