The Office of the State Bank Commissioner (OSBC) has welcomed four Kansas bankers to the State Banking Board following their recent appointments by Governor Laura Kelly and confirmation by the Kansas Senate. The Kansas Bankers Association congratulates each of these leaders on their selection and thanks them for their willingness to serve the state’s banking industry.
The new members and their institutions are:
Tonya Barta, President & CEO, Farmers State Bank, Holton
Jared Brown, Chairman & CEO, Impact Bank, Wellington
Darren Gragg, Chairman, President/CEO, Bennington State Bank, Salina
Jacinda Zerr, Market President, Farmers State Bank & Trust, Overland Park
The State Banking Board plays a vital role in maintaining a strong, safe and competitive state-chartered banking system. The nine-member board — comprised of six bankers and three public representatives — ensures statewide geographic and political balance as required by statute.
Its responsibilities include promoting safe and sound banking practices, supporting financial stability, protecting consumers and upholding public confidence in Kansas’ chartered banks and trust institutions.
Commissioner David Herndon welcomed the new members at the board’s Feb. 23 meeting, noting, “Agreeing to become a member of the state banking board demonstrates the professionalism and recognition each banker has attained in their careers. I’m delighted to have the opportunity to work with each and look forward to each sharing their knowledge, banking wisdom and their willingness to offer their contributions in making the Office of the State Bank Commissioner the premier bank regulator it has become.”
In addition to welcoming new members, the board elected Taylor Hight, President & CEO, American Bank, Baxter Springs, to serve as Board Chairman for the coming year. KBA extends its congratulations to Chairman Hight as well.
The Kansas Bankers Association applauds all newly appointed and elected leaders. Their expertise and dedication strengthen the state chartered banking system and benefit communities across Kansas.
“We congratulate Taylor and the new board members on these well-deserved appointments,” said Doug Wareham, KBA President & CEO. “Their deep understanding of Kansas banking and passion for serving communities make them exceptional choices to lead the State Banking Board. Kansas banks will be well-represented under this leadership.”
We’d also like to extend our appreciation to Irv Mitchell, President & CEO, Wilson State Bank, Wilson; Ruth Stevenson, President & COO, Peoples Bank, Lawrence; Leonard Wolfe, President & Chairman, United Bank & Trust, Marysville; and Patrick Walden, President & CEO, Garden Plain State Bank, Wichita, who have completed their terms on the board. Their steady leadership, industry experience and thoughtful guidance have been instrumental in supporting the board’s work over the past few years.
