New Docking Exhibit Honors Family Legacy
The Cherokee Strip Land Rush Museum in Arkansas City has opened an expanded exhibit honoring the Docking family’s long history of public service in Kansas. More than 160 people, including Governor Laura Kelly, attended the dedication ceremony celebrating their legacy.
The Dockings are one of Kansas’ most recognized political families, with George Docking serving as governor from 1957 to 1961 and his son, Robert Docking, serving from 1967 to 1975. Their leadership in state government left a lasting mark on Kansas history and inspired future generations of public servants.
In addition to politics, the Dockings built a strong foundation in the banking industry through Union State Bank in Arkansas City. Their work in community banking reflected the same values of service and trust that guided their time in public office, and the family’s influence continues to be felt in Kansas banking circles today.
The new exhibit showcases personal items such as Bernice Docking’s handwritten letters, a vintage suit jacket and the family’s original bank desk. Together, these artifacts highlight the Docking families impact on both banking and politics, offering visitors a deeper understanding of their role in shaping Kansas communities.
The Farmers State Bank Celebrates 125 Years
The Farmers State Bank (FSB) is commemorating an impressive 125 years of continuous service to the people of Jackson County and beyond. The bank first opened its doors in Circleville in 1900 with just $5,000 in capital and a mission to provide dependable financial services to its neighbors. Over the years, FSB relocated to Holton, where it has steadily grown into a trusted institution with $76 million in assets. Today, it holds the unique distinction of being both the oldest and smallest operating bank in the county, a reminder of its staying power and dedication to local roots even as the banking industry has undergone immense changes.
with $76 million in assets. Today, it holds the unique distinction of being both the oldest and smallest operating bank in the county, a reminder of its staying power and dedication to local roots even as the banking industry has undergone immense changes.
What has remained constant throughout the bank’s history is its deep commitment to community. FSB has built its reputation on more than financial services — it is also a partner in civic life, supporting local organizations, donating to causes and encouraging employees to volunteer their time and talents. That tradition continues under the leadership of Tonya Barta, the bank’s 11th president and the first woman to hold the role. Tonya emphasizes the importance of carrying forward the values that have guided FSB for over a century while also preparing it to meet the needs of a new generation. As FSB celebrates this milestone, it remains dedicated to providing personalized hometown banking with a focus on trust, service and community engagement.
GNBank Receives Regional Housing Champion Award
GNBank, headquartered in Girard, Kansas, received the Regional Housing Champion Award at the FHLBank Topeka regional meeting.
Since 2021, GNBank has utilized FHLBank Topeka TurnKey programs to provide $138,500 in down payment and closing cost assistance to make the dream of homeownership a reality for 14 households. To further support their community, GNBank utilized reduced rate advances through our Community Development Program to support 14 community development projects and retain 48 jobs.
Their commitment to supporting Native Americans is also noted with participation in FHLBank’s Native American Housing Initiatives (NAHI) Grant Program partnering on a $500,000 grant to Kickapoo Housing Authority to provide repair assistance to approximately 20 homeowners to make their aging homes safe and livable. Additionally, through the Lending Enhancement Advance Program (LEAP), GNBank received a reduced-rate advance to support Native American Tribal lending in their community.
Alongside its core mission of providing liquidity to members in support of local communities, FHLBank Topeka is also committed to supporting affordable housing and community development. In 2025, it allocated 15% of its income for grant funds that fuel these community-building efforts.
“GNBank is truly honored to receive FHLBank Topeka’s Kansas Regional Housing Award. FHLBank Topeka’s housing programs have been essential in helping the rural communities across Kansas that we serve to develop much needed affordable housing as well as community services and resources,” said Mark Schifferdecker, President and CEO of GNBank. “Earlier this year, we were able to help provide assistance to one of our local Native American tribes due to their programs. The FHLBank Topeka staff does an excellent job guiding both our bank staff and our customers through the entire process. The extent of impact these housing programs have had upon our Kansas communities is immeasurable. Kansas is a much better place to call home because of FHLBank Topeka’s housing programs.”
Stacy Gear Completes Graduate School of Banking
Citizens Bank of Kansas in Derby extends congratulations to Stacy Gear, the Chief Development Officer/SVP at CBK, who recently completed the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado (GSBC). A nationally recognized leadership development program for community bankers, the GSBC includes a rigorous 25-month curriculum designed to prepare rising leaders and improve their financial institutions and communities.
In addition, Stacy successfully completed the Committed to Lead Micro-Credential program at GSBC. This program of additional coursework is offered exclusively to second- and third-year GSBC students; it is designed to build bold, future-oriented community bank leaders.
“We extend our sincere congratulations to Stacy on her GSBC graduation,” stated Kyle Russell, CBK President. “This significant achievement reflects her commitment to professional excellence, continuous learning and leadership within the banking industry. We look forward to the continued impact Stacy will make in shaping the future of CBK.”
Stacy joined CBK in 2014 and works at the Derby-Buckner location. GSBC’s Annual School Session each July immerses students in three consecutive years of classroom learning paired with six real-world intersession projects. Each student’s final project addresses a strategic opportunity or challenge unique to their organization, bringing immediate value back to the communities they serve.
Guaranty State Bank & Trust Co. Names New President/CEO
Guaranty State Bank & Trust Co. has announced the appointment of Jason Rabe as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective December 2025. Rabe will succeed Doug Johnson, who is retiring after 51 years of dedicated leadership.
Jason brings more than two decades of leadership experience in both the public and private sectors, including roles as CEO/General Manager of Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative and City Manager of Beloit. He also spent over 11 years in community banking and has a strong background in strategic planning and rural economic development.
A Beloit resident since 2016, Jason holds degrees in Marketing Management and Public Administration. Johnson praised him as “the right leader to guide Guaranty State Bank & Trust Co. into the future,” highlighting his passion for community banking and innovation.
For over a century, Guaranty State Bank & Trust Co. has proudly served Kansas communities with integrity and personalized service.
