The Indiana Bankers Association is celebrating its 125th anniversary, or quasquicentennial, throughout 2022. Since its founding in 1897, the IBA has been serving the Indiana banking community, withstanding wars, droughts, economic downturns and two pandemics. Its longevity mirrors the stability of its member banks, 85 of which have been in operation a century or longer. Currently, 119 banks and trusts are members of the IBA.
To spotlight the anniversary, the IBA is running a social media campaign on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter using hashtag #IBA125Years. Posts feature historical tidbits about the Association and member banks, and IBA members are encouraged to post using the hashtag. Additional anniversary plans include hosting a celebration at the IBA Annual Convention in September and publishing a commemorative edition of Hoosier Banker magazine.
The IBA supports Indiana banking through member communications, issues advocacy, professional development, and connecting member banks with quality service providers. Notably, the Association hosts its Mega Conference, IBA’s signature event, that generally attracts more than 1,000 participants each year. It is the largest state bankers association meeting in the country.
IBA support of Indiana banking in turn helps bolster the economic vibrancy of Indiana, with banks providing essential financial products and services, as well as community outreach, to the communities they serve. In 2020, for example, Indiana banks participated in the Paycheck Protection Program, which provided approximately $10 billion to Hoosier small businesses during the COVID-19 shutdown.
Recent IBA accomplishments include helping to establish two banking minors at Indiana universities, a first in the state’s history, at Purdue University Northwest and Ball State University. The Association also created a BankLEAD Internship Program to provide hands-on banking experience to college-level students, helping to prepare the next generation of banking talent.
The Association operates under the guidance of the IBA Board of Directors, consisting of 17 members. Garry D. Kleer serves as 2022 chairman of the IBA and also is chairman, president and CEO of First Bank Richmond. “It is an honor to serve as chairman of the Indiana Bankers Association during this 125-year anniversary,” said Kleer. “Coincidentally, 2022 marks the 135th anniversary of First Bank Richmond, and both organizations have much history to celebrate.”
Amber R. Van Til is president and CEO of the Association, serving in her leadership position since 2017. “This milestone anniversary of the Indiana Bankers Association gives us an opportunity to pause and reflect on the strength of Indiana banking and its positive impact on the well-being of Hoosiers,” said Van Til. “Banking is the business that serves all others, and we are proud of the legacy of the IBA and our member banks.”