Pub. 6 2017 Issue 2

The CommunityBanker 8 President’s Message By Steve Yeakel, CAE VACB President & CEO Difference Makers M E S S A G E hank You The Chairman’s column provides strong evidence of the value and the impact of volun- teering. It’s the backbone of any strong association, and on brilliant display throughout every VACB activity. In every aspect of our brand - undiluted advocacy, targeted education and quality col- laboration - it’s the willingness of volunteer bankers to commit time, thought and energy that makes the activity a success. Alice illustrates this point with respect to our advocacy on Capitol Hill, and we see it everywhere. Our premiere C-Suite Roundtable brought together bankers and associate members for a valuable exchange of information. Our education programs continue to provide timely information that helps bank employees work smarter. Our committees share best practices and hear timely updates on hot topics. And we are responding to your willingness to participate by adding additional content to our educational offerings. For instance, 17 bankers are taking advantage of our new Banking Essentials seminars, a face-to-face, interactive way to onboard new employees. There are additional sessions available this year and Katharine would be pleased to enroll some newmembers of your team, if your bank is not already participating. So as we ask you to “double-down,” to engage in new programs and additional advocacy efforts, please know that your contributions – time, talent, financial resources, and people – make all the difference. The value and identity of community banking will continue to grow as we continue to build this synergy. We are deeply grateful for your engagement, and look forward to our next op- portunity to work with you. T