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We have so much to be thankful for as 2023 brought its own set of challenges, opportunities, and successes. Each year the economy, the weather, and many other factors challenge us as individuals and the bank as a community stalwart.
We pride ourselves at Heartland Bank that we effectively deal with whatever challenges come our way. We have a committed team of associates, amazing customers, and resilient communities that can thrive in all sorts of circumstances. I am very proud of how our Heartland associates continually support our customers and communities.
We will celebrate our 125th anniversary as a company next year, and I am sure our founders would be proud of how we maintain the tradition of supporting our associates, customers, and communities. We continue to strengthen Heartland Bank every year so that we are prepared for any type of business environment.
We are one of the strongest banks in the state, and the historic rise in interest rates this year tested our industry. You can be confident that Heartland Bank adapted to the rate challenges and unsettled financial landscape to be stronger than ever.
In this challenging environment we expanded into the Omaha market with the addition of Steve Knapp to our team, and we also announced the purchase of the State Bank of Odell which we expect to close in January subject to regulatory approvals.
Our branches continued to grow, our Assets Under Management through Sandstone Wealth Management and Heartland Trust Company surpassed a milestone by exceeding $500 Million, and NorthPointe Insurance associates continued to provide outstanding service to their customers. Additionally, we were named one of the “Best Banks to Work For” in the country by the leading national banking magazine American Banker for the fifth time.
We have the best team of bankers in the state to serve you, and I couldn’t be more proud of what our associates do each day to delight our customers. We get up every morning to serve our customers and communities, and we will continue to do this for years to come.
From our Heartland Bank family to yours, I’d like to wish you and your family a very joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year. We look forward to continuing to serve you in 2024.
Thanks so much for trusting us with your financial future. It’s a privilege to be your bank!
John is the Chairman and CEO of Heartland Bank. He is the third generation of the Wilkins family to lead the bank. John has 40 years of banking experience in various lending, wealth management, and branch leadership roles. In his free time, he enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.
