Connie Torneden, First State Bank & Trust in Tonganoxie
Congratulations to Connie Torneden on her 50 years in banking! Connie embarked on her professional journey in 1974, joining The First State Bank of Tonganoxie as an Administrative Assistant to the President and Chairman of the Board.
Through Connie’s 50-year banking career, she witnessed and contributed to the bank’s remarkable growth, now spanning seven retail locations, an investments and financial services office and an operations building. Her career progression held multiple roles, from Administrative Assistant to Assistant Cashier, Compliance Officer and Bank Security Officer from 1980 to 1997; advanced to Assistant Vice President/Credit Department, Loan Production Specialist and Commercial Loan Assistant from 1997 to 2009; and Sr. Commercial Loan Assistant from 2009 to the present.
Her educational background includes being a graduate of Tonganoxie High School and earning a business certificate in 1974 from Kansas City Kansas Community College. When Connie is not working at the bank, she has been making significant contributions to her community throughout various roles: Board of Directors for Reno Cemetery Association from 1986 to the present; Co-Founder and Chairman of Tonganoxie Days from 1986 to 2015; Lobbyist and Treasurer of the 24-40 Highway Task Force in Leavenworth County from 1989 to 1991; graduate from Southern Leavenworth County Leadership Development in 1991; current Treasurer of the Fairmont District 2 Fire Department (previously Reno Township Fire Department) from 1996 to the present; past President of the Tonganoxie Chamber of Commerce; and Secretary of the Tonganoxie Community Historical Society. Connie has also been involved with the Tonganoxie Jaycees, Dairy Farmers of America and the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA).
Her dedication has also been acknowledged through various accolades, including the Citizen of the Year Award and the Member of the Year Award from the Tonganoxie Chamber of Commerce, and the Woman of the Year Award from the American Business Women’s Association. Connie Torneden’s career and volunteer work reflect a lifetime of commitment to both her professional field and her community. Her influence extends beyond banking, showcasing her leadership and service in various civic and professional capacities.
Cara Daise, BANKWEST of Kansas in Goodland
Cara’s banking career began on Aug. 1, 1975, after being hired by Dale while working at Brown’s Shoe Store in Goodland. She started as a teller, balancing savings accounts and quickly taking on more responsibilities. Cara worked in bookkeeping, handled loan payments, posted the general ledger and manually calculated interest and penalties for CDs — all before the advent of computers at the bank.
In 1978, she and Tony Paugolatos manually converted the bank’s securities portfolio to a computerized bond accounting system, marking a significant step forward in operations. Over time, Cara’s knowledge and skills grew, and she earned titles such as Assistant Cashier, Cashier, Vice President and Executive Vice President. In May 2006, she was named Chief Executive Officer, leading board meetings for much of her career.
Cara was instrumental in the bank’s expansion, including the 1986 purchase of the St. Francis bank and the 1990 acquisition of the Colby bank. She played a key role in managing these conversions and supporting employees across all locations. Cara’s expertise spans all departments, allowing her to step in wherever needed. She has a strong understanding of consumer compliance, having read and mastered every regulation. She also maintains loan relationships, assists with payroll and oversees accounts payable.
Known for her dedication, attention to detail and high standards, Cara has always led by example, never asking others to do tasks she wouldn’t do herself. Bank examinations were particularly important to her, as she took great pride in presenting the bank’s work accurately.
Cara’s impact on the bank and her colleagues is immeasurable, and many stories could be shared about her contributions. Today, we celebrate her exceptional career and dedication to the banking industry.
Larry “Dale” Goodwin, BANKWEST of Kansas in Goodland
Dale’s father, Wence S. Goodwin, purchased Goodland State Bank on June 14, 1959. Dale began working as a summer teller at the bank during high school. He graduated from Goodland High School in 1962, attended Colorado University, and later transferred to Kansas State College in Pittsburg, where he graduated in 1967. After college, Dale worked for Household Finance in California for a year and a half before passing the National Bank Examiner test in 1968. This led to a position with the Comptroller of the Currency in Wichita, Kansas.
Dale and his wife married on June 2, 1968. In 1970, he returned to Goodland at his parents’ request to work at the bank. He started as Assistant Cashier on July 1, 1970, and attended the Madison School of Banking. Over time, Dale held various roles — including Cashier, Vice President and Executive Vice President — before becoming President in 1980.
Under Dale’s leadership, the bank expanded, purchasing a location in St. Francis, Kansas, on May 15, 1986, and another in Colby, Kansas, on Jan. 12, 1990. Dale’s dedication and experience ensured the smooth management of all three locations. He enjoyed connecting with customers and finding ways to support their farming or business needs.
Dale’s commitment to the community was evident through his numerous contributions. He supported area schools by funding scoreboards and sound systems, helped establish a motorcycle museum, and donated to local events, hospitals and other community needs. His generosity extended to his employees as well, ensuring they were supported in times of need. A memorable example was his tradition of sharing meat purchased from 4-H auctions with his staff.
