DECEMBER 2024 5 Flourish 7 From the Top IN EVERY ISSUE CURRENCIES Photo News: Northwestern Bank's podcast brews up conversation The Checklist: 5 key questions when evaluating your board Rising Interest: What issues are regulators watching today? Events: ICBA experiences 12 20 PORTFOLIO 16 The year in compliance: 6 notable updates From beneficial ownership to bankfintech partnerships, what were banks grappling with this year? 58 CONNECTIONS 58 Trailblazer High Plains Bank enhances banking accessibility with Spanish language support. 62 Community Spirit First Citizens Bank nurtures future talent through hands-on internship experiences. 64 Powering Potential Two community bankers share how ICBA membership bolsters education and advocacy. 66 Listen Up All about ICBA Community, an open forum for community bankers 68 Out of Office Michael Hatfield and his wife co-own a woodworking business. 19 Leadership at All Levels What attributes make an employee memorable? 20 Can software solve your board management woes? Board management software can ease scheduling and security challenges-and saves a ton of paper. 22 Tips for better vendor management Enhance vendor relations with organization and a personal touch. 24 Innovation Station Attracting Gen Z as customers and employees 26 Portfolio Management Falling rates are likely to boost cash flows. 28 Checks & Balances Is a favorable new farm bill on the horizon? Connect with ICBA @icba facebook.com/icbaorg linkedin.com/company/icba youtube.com/user/ communitybankchannel @banklocally @myicba 2 // ICBA Independent Banker // December 2024http://www.youtube.com/user/communitybankchannel http://www.youtube.com/user/communitybankchannel http://www.facebook.com/icbaorg http://www.linkedin.com/company/icba