The Indiana Bankers Association this week received the Governor’s Century Business Award in recognition of the organization’s longevity and service to the community and state. The IBA was one of only 19 companies and organizations recognized at this level by Gov. Eric J. Holcomb and Indiana Secretary of Commerce Brad Chambers, as announced by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation on Aug. 16.
The IBA supports Indiana’s banking community through professional development, issues advocacy, member communications and by connecting member banks with quality service providers. Recently, the IBA helped 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 the BankLEAD Internship Program to provide hands-on banking experience to college-level students, preparing the next generation of banking talent.
“The officers, directors and staff of the Indiana Bankers Association are honored to be recognized for both the historic and everyday impact the Association and its members have on Hoosiers as we celebrate our 125th anniversary this year,” said Amber R. Van Til, president and CEO of the Association. “Banking is the business that serves all others, and we are proud of the legacy of the IBA and our member banks.”
Since its founding in 1897, the IBA has served its members through war and peace, economic prosperity and downturns, and two global pandemics. IBA’s members, in turn, help bolster the entire state’s economy, with banks providing essential financial products and services as well as community outreach. In 2020, Indiana banks helped businesses in their communities navigate the Paycheck Protection Program, which provided approximately $10 billion to Hoosier small businesses during the COVID-19 shutdown, supporting more than 1 million Hoosier jobs.
“Banking professionals touch individual lives by helping consumers realize their dreams of homeownership, entrepreneurship, education and more,” said Garry D. Kleer, chairman, president and CEO of First Bank Richmond and 2022 IBA chairman. “Yet banks provide far more than dollars. Bankers give advice, counsel and guidance to their clients. Many business owners, whether first-time or veteran, appreciate banker input and perspective. Nonprofit organizations benefit from bank leadership on boards and committees to guide them through financial challenges and opportunities.”
Three IBA member banks also received the Governor’s Century Business Award this year: Crossroads Bank, Wabash; First Bank of Berne; and The Friendship State Bank.