NATCHITOCHES – The Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) announced that local community banker Ken Hale, president & CEO of BOM Bank in Natchitoches was elected to the ICBA Federal Delegate Board. ICBA is the nation’s voice for community banks. Hale earned a degree in business administration at Northwestern State University in 1994 and has served as a long-time member of the NSU Foundation Board.
“I am honored to be elected to represent our industry and help share the positive story of community banking with policymakers,” Hale said. “Community banks are trusted, relationship-based lenders that deliver personalized service and invaluable financial expertise to local consumers and entrepreneurs. We drive positive economic prosperity both nationally and at home.”
In addition to helping shape and advocate ICBA’s national policy positions and programs, Hale’s duties include being a liaison between independent community bankers in Louisiana and ICBA staff and leadership in Washington, D.C. He will also work to recruit new members to ICBA.
ICBA is the only organization dedicated exclusively to promoting the interests of locally operated community banks and savings institutions. With trusted financial expertise and high-quality customer service as their hallmarks, community banks offer the best financial services option for millions of consumers, small businesses and agricultural enterprises.
“Ken is a dedicated community banker who is highly respected in his community and by his industry peers,” said ICBA Chairman Noah W. Wilcox, president and CEO, Grand Rapids State Bank. “We are delighted Ken has generously offered his time and valuable professional talents to the service of the community banking industry.”
Hale’s wife, Shannon Wall Hale, earned a degree in Student Personnel Services at NSU in 1995 and is currently on faculty as an instructor in the Department of Psychology.
