Pub. 9 2020 Issue 1

January/February 2020 11 l e a d i n g a d v o c a t e f o r t h e b a n k i n g i n d u s t r y i n k a n s a s 2020 Women in Banking CONFERENCE May 28-29, Olathe Embassy Suites • Creating Your Own Professional Presence • Leading Without Losing Your Femininity • Beyond Networking 101 - Tips & Tools for Women • Fear-less: Is Fear Holding You Back • Self Defense Techniques • Peer Networking • Career Goals and Your Path • How We Got Here: Women Leader’s Panel Discussion • FEARLESS: Kat Perkins, The Voice Contestant 785.232.3444 www.ksbankers.com Take Your Career to New Heights! Describe an average day walking in your shoes. I have spent most of my days for the last 37 years calling on banks and working with them on their insurance programs. I’ve driven an average of 1,000 miles a week for all these years, so it wasn’t really “walking.” What is one of the most memorable moments at the KBA? When we celebrated the KBA’s 100th Anniversary at the Topeka convention in 1986, we had Bob Newhart for entertainment, and Henry Kissinger was our keynote speaker. Kissinger’s staff commandeered my car (and me) for his transportation. One of his security staff drove, and it was the fastest trip I ever made across Topeka (or anywhere else — I’m an insurance guy, I NEVER drive THAT fast!) Was there a colleague that inspired you or your life? From the day I was hired at the KBA, Harold Stones positively influenced me. He was a great mentor, and I’ve tried to emulate his upbeat attitude, work ethic, and great love for Kansas banks. What are you going to miss the most? I will miss being out in the banks and visiting with the folks I’ve been proud to consider not just customers, but friends. Are there any funny stories our staff could tell about you that come to mind? There are LOTS of stories from the old Fall Conferences, but they ALL fall under the heading “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!” What are the most noteworthy achievements you made at KBA? I am proud of growing the Insurance operation, with the help of a great team, into a profit center that contributes nearly 40% of the KBA budget and provides at least one insurance product that touches nearly every bank in the state. Retirement. So, what are your plans now? I am trying to learn to “sleep in” — it’s not going well. I intend to play more golf, do more fishing, and, as many of you have heard me say, Becky and I are going to buy a convertible and travel Route 66 from end to end in one big trip. We intend to have fun and see a LOT of the USA. And, I’d like to find a nonprofit that could use whatever I have to offer and spend some time volunteering. Anything else you want to add or want bankers and staff to know? It has been the privilege of my life to work side by side with my wife for Kansas Bankers and with the great KBA staff. I have had the best job there is.