Pub. 5 2017 Issue 2

12 The Community Banker www.mibonline.org B renna Copenhaver is a native of Lincoln, Montana and a graduate of Lincoln High School and the Montana College of Technology. She be- gan working for Citizens Alliance Bank, formerly First Bank of Lin- coln, in February, 2014. Brenna started as a Teller Trainee and has quickly ascended into Opera- tions Supervisor. Kenny Martin, Montana Market Manager of Citizens Alliance Bank, noted that Brenna’s “personal skills, com- munication skills, and leadership skills are exemplary and she has mastered the operational side of community banking. The Lincoln branch of CAB has enjoyed great growth in new accounts and assets, much of which is a direct reflection of Brenna’s interper- sonal skills. I highly recommend Ms. Brenna Copenhaver for this award.” In addition to taking to com- munity banking like a duck to water, Brenna has volunteered much her time to benefit her tiny hometown of Lincoln. Laurie Richards, President of Lincoln Valley Chamber of Commerce, wrote: “I feel honored to have been asked to write a letter of recommendation. I have known Brenna her whole life. I have worked with Brenna on several committees over the years and it is always a joy. Her work ethic and enthusiasm is contagious. She is eager to tackle any task that is put in front of her and does it with a smile. I have found Brenna to be a team player and always manages to have a posi- tive attitude. I have also had the pleasure of Brenna assisting me with my banking needs. She is always friendly and efficient. If I am having a problem, I know that she will have the issue figured out in no time at all. I have said on more than one occasion that Brenna should give a class on customer service. She always makes you feel that you are number one.” Brenna herself wrote in her application: “Coming from a small town there is always the oppor- tunity for community service. Whether it be volunteering to help set up for the Lincoln Com- munity Benefit or helping a fami- ly in need, I take pride in the time I spend helping in any way that I can.” She recently spent a great deal of time helping the Lincoln Valley Chamber of Commerce prepare and set up for their 1st Annual Skijoring event, which turned out to be a huge success. She is on the committee to plan Lincoln’s 4th Annual Charity Bike Rally. This event is to raise money to go towards Lincoln’s local Fire Department, Lincoln Volunteer Ambulance, Sam’s Hope Foun- dation, and Shodair Children’s Hospital. In addition, Brenna has spent four years on the Lincoln PTSA, serving two years as the secretary and two as the vice president. During this time, she dedicated many hours to the PTSA Halloween Carnival, serving countless meals to the bikers riding the Great Divide trail, manning the Fireworks trailer, catering to Lincoln’s local teens for Teen Week and also to its teachers for Teacher Appreciation Week, just to name a few. Brenna wrote: “There is never a dull moment in our community and always something to be in- volved in. As Andrew Shue once said, ‘Community service has taught me all kinds of skills and increased my confidence. You go out there and think on your feet, work with others, and create something from nothing. That’s what life is all about.’ I couldn’t have said it better myself.” We are delighted to bestow upon Brenna Copenhaver the 2017 Outstanding Young Bankers Award. Thank you for your ser- vice, Brenna! BRENNACOPENHAVEROF CITIZENSALLIANCE BANK WINS 2017 OUTSTANDINGYOUNGBANKERAWARD To recognize upcoming leaders in Montana’s banking community, MIB honors one special young banker each year. This scholarship is based on the community banking values of good citizenship, community service, and sound banking skills. This award not only recognizes the impact that the candidate has in his or her business each day, but also the difference he or she makes by investing in their community. Eligible candidates are under 35 years of age and have worked for an MIB member bank for three or more years. The winner receives free convention registration and three nights lodging at the 2017 MIB Annual Convention, $100 in travel expenses, an honor plaque to display in his or her office, and prominent mention in the MIB magazine and website.