First Security Bank Names New CEO and New CFO
First Security Bank, with locations in Overbrook, Carbondale, Paola and Tonganoxie, Kansas, has named Michael Needham as President and CEO and Matt Needham as Senior Vice President and CFO.
After 50 years of service in community banking and almost 20 years as the Chairman, President and CEO of First Security Bank, Kent Needham has decided to step down and move closer to retirement. Kent will remain as Chairman of the Board at First Security.
The Needham Family bought First Security Bank in 2007 from Tonganoxie Bankshares Inc. and, over the past two decades, has purchased two other bank locations — one in Paola and the other in Carbondale — and most recently opened a brand-new location in Tonganoxie.
Kent’s sons, Michael and Matt, are now taking on their dad’s legacy by stepping into senior leadership roles in the family business.
Michael, who has over 20 years of banking and lending experience, looks forward to stepping into the CEO role and helping to grow the First Security Bank throughout the rural communities in which the branches sit. “It has always been the priority of First Security Bank to serve our customers well and put their needs first,” said Michael Needham. “We want to provide them a community-centered, hometown feel and help the businesses, the families and the communities we serve thrive.”
Matt Neeham, Kent’s younger son, will step into the role of CFO. Matt has 15 years of banking and finance experience under his belt. Kent is proud and excited for his sons to take the reins and continue the thoughtful direction and hard work that Kent put into the bank for almost 20 years.
When asked about his decision to step down, Kent’s response was, “I am very excited about these changes! I am looking to slow down after almost 50 years of service to community banking. I have a great deal of confidence in the current leadership team. They will continue the journey we started
17 years ago with a great deal of knowledge and commitment to the communities we serve and our team members working alongside us. There are so many people to thank for their support during this journey. That includes every one of our employees. Thank you for all you do for FSB.”
Integrity Bank Nominates Mike Miller for Nation Meyer Innovative Banker Award
Integrity Bank has proudly nominated Michael D. Miller, President and CEO, for the Nation Meyer Innovative Banker Award. Since assuming leadership of the bank in 2020, Miller has led a remarkable transformation of the institution — ushering in a new era of innovation and progress that has redefined community banking in southwest Kansas.
Under Miller’s direction, Integrity Bank transitioned from a limited-service model to offering advanced digital banking tools through DCI, including teller, go banking, cash management, mobile deposit and positive pay. These enhancements have significantly improved customer experience and allowed the bank to successfully compete with much larger financial institutions.
Beyond technology, Miller also initiated a comprehensive review and overhaul of the bank’s policies and procedures, leading to improved internal workflows and a stronger customer-focused approach. Customers who once felt the bank was “behind the times” now praise its modern services — often noting they never imagined a small community bank could deliver such big-city capabilities.
Miller’s leadership extends beyond the walls of the bank. He is known for his consistent support of local initiatives, whether donating to school programs, helping youth sports teams or championing financial literacy efforts. His community-first mindset and humble leadership style have earned him the respect of both his staff and the community.
Integrity Bank credits much of its success to Miller’s vision, drive and belief in his team. He is known for deflecting credit and lifting up those around him — a true reflection of what the Nation Meyer Innovative Banker Award represents.
Ryan Wedel Joins The Bankers Bank as SVP of Commercial Lending
Ryan Wedel has joined The Bankers Bank (headquartered in Oklahoma City) as Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending, bringing with him almost 30 years of banking experience — the last 16 years at Landmark National Bank in Kansas, where he led the Commercial Lending team. He most recently served as Landmark’s Chief Strategy Officer, where he drove strategic initiatives and innovative solutions. Ryan graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Emporia State University, where he also played basketball for the Hornets. He later attended the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado and was awarded the Certificate of Excellence.
GSB-Wisconsin Hires Olivia Luster as Marketing Coordinator
The Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has named Olivia Luster as its new Marketing Coordinator. In this role, Luster will support content creation, social media, event planning and alumni outreach. She brings a strong background in marketing strategy, SEO, graphic design and communications.
“Olivia brings exactly the skills we envisioned when creating this position,” said GSB President and CEO Paul C. Katz. “She’s already making a positive impact.”
Luster previously served as a Marketing Communications Generalist for a Wisconsin-based manufacturer. She holds degrees in business management and communication studies from Luther College.
Drouhard Graduates from Executive Development Institute
Benjamin J. Drouhard, Executive Vice President of Citizens Bank of Kansas, recently completed the Executive Development Institute for Community Bankers® through the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado.
Part of EDI’s 11th cohort, Drouhard joined a select group of rising C-level leaders receiving intensive training in bank management and leadership. Participants engage in mentorship, executive coaching and coursework on topics like cybersecurity, customer relationships and talent management.
“Ben’s dedication to his bank, customers and community is evident,” said GSBC President Michael Stevens. “We’re proud to support his professional growth.”
CBK President Kyle Russell added, “EDI has prepared Ben for future leadership and continued impact at Citizens Bank of Kansas.”
