Julie Hower embodies what it means to lead with purpose — honoring tradition, lifting others and looking ahead with confidence. As KBA’s incoming board chair, she brings that same vision and heart to her work on behalf of banks and communities across Kansas.
The Kansas Bankers Association had the pleasure of visiting Julie Hower in the historic town of Council Grove — a place where Kansas heritage, community pride and visionary leadership all converge. As President and CEO of Farmers and Drovers Bank, Julie represents the fifth generation of her family to carry forward a proud legacy of service, both to customers and to community. Her warmth, humility and passion for Kansas banking shine through in every conversation.
We sat down with Julie to learn more about her roots, her journey in banking and her hopes for the future.
Farmers & Drovers is a fifth-generation family-owned bank. What are its roots?
The story begins with my great-great-grandfather, William Henry (W.H.) White. He came to Council Grove from Kentucky in 1857 by wagon train. Tragically, his mother died along the way, and after his father passed, he was left to make his way alone at just 17 years old.
Armed with little more than a bony horse and sheer determination, he drove cattle across the region to earn a living. On one return trip from St. Joseph, Missouri, he stopped to rest at a hotel near Baldwin City, Kansas — only to narrowly escape a robbery by someone who knew he was carrying cash. That harrowing experience convinced him his money would be far safer in a bank. And the rest, as they say, is history.
For over 140 years, Farmers and Drovers Bank has been guided by generations of dedicated family leadership:
- W.H. White (1882-1935)
- C.H. White (1935-58)
- Hale White (1958-90)
- John H. White (1990-2015)
- Julie Hower (2015-present)
Was joining the family bank always your plan?
I was born and raised in Council Grove, and some of my earliest memories are of shadowing my father, John White. Whether we were inside the bank or out in the community, he modeled what it meant to be a leader. During the agricultural crisis of the 1980s, I watched him go far beyond his role as a banker. He was a friend, problem solver and steady presence for those facing incredibly difficult times.
It wasn’t until years later that I fully understood the depth of those moments and the lasting value of leading with empathy, integrity and service. So yes, continuing the family legacy felt like a natural path. My father was an incredible mentor who instilled in me the importance of helping people — and like him, I find great fulfillment in making a difference.
Where did you go to college?
I earned my bachelor’s degree in communication from Kansas State University and went on to receive my Juris Doctor from the University of Kansas. I’m proud of both institutions, but when it comes to school spirit, I definitely bleed purple!
What’s one of your favorite quotes, and why does it resonate with you?
One quote that’s always stuck with me is: “It’s amazing what you can accomplish when no one cares who gets the credit.”
In banking — and in leadership — that mindset is essential. Over the years, I’ve learned that real success isn’t about micromanaging. It’s about creating a culture of trust and collaboration, where people feel empowered to contribute their best. Banking is a relationship business, both inside and outside the organization. When you focus on the greater good and give people room to thrive, the results speak for themselves.
Tell us about your family.
I’m the daughter of John and Marty White. My father passed away in 2016, and my mother, a retired schoolteacher, still lives in Council Grove. My brother, Steve White, serves as Executive Vice President and is a member of the bank’s board of directors.
My husband, John, and I are proud parents of two amazing daughters. Hailey, our oldest, is a Kansas State alumna and recently married Hunter Engle. They now live in Olathe. Our youngest daughter, Ally, is currently a junior at Kansas State University.
What do you enjoy doing for fun?
I’m a big fan of Kansas State sports — there’s nothing better than cheering on the Wildcats! Outside of being a spectator, I enjoy staying active. Water skiing has been a longtime favorite, and interestingly, it’s how I met my husband, John. I also enjoy fishing, golfing and being outdoors whenever I can.
What else would you like to share?
I have a deep love for Council Grove and the people who make it so special. This town has shaped me, and I see it as both a privilege and a responsibility to give back. The beauty of the Flint Hills is something I never tire of. They’re a daily reminder of the strength, resilience and grace that define this part of Kansas.
I’m especially passionate about Main Street revitalization. You won’t find many vacant buildings downtown, and that’s something we’re incredibly proud of. From a brewery and a vintage home décor shop to a cake company, coffeehouse and a flower shop, Council Grove is full of energy and entrepreneurial spirit. Each business reflects the dedication of people who believe in this community and want to see it thrive. It’s a testament to what can happen when people work together with a shared vision and a love for their hometown.
