Writer: Matthew Doffing

Nicolai family walks the talk of true community bankers

Any account of the good deeds of Dan Nicolai is written without his permission. It is enough for the president and CEO of the more than 100-year-old Castle Rock Bank to know his contributions to his community; otherwise he’d prefer the world not know the good he’s done. Go visit Castle Rock, though, or talk to his customers and the organizations supported by the Nicolai family over the years, and it’s clear: Dan Nicolai is one of the best things to happen to Castle Rock, Minn. [Continue]

Leader, mentor, friend

North Dakotan has worn many hats during 42-year career Jan Odin’s coworkers, partners and peers across North Dakota know her as a leader, but also as a mentor and friend. Odin is a 2016 selection for Outstanding Women in Banking honors. The recognition, sponsored by CliftonLarsonAllen, is presented by NorthWestern Financial Review magazine. Odin has … Read more

Outside leadership comes in

Indiana banker’s work ethic fuels rise to President/CEO In April, Karen Gregerson was hired as president and CEO of The Farmers Bank, Frankfort, Ind. Observers say her work ethic, passion for developing herself and for leading others have fueled her ascension to leader of the bank. Gregerson is a 2016 selection for Outstanding Women in … Read more

Non-traditional leadership

Minnesota bank president turns innovation into reality Nichol Beckstrand has taken a less-than-traditional route to the president’s office at Sunrise Banks, St. Paul, Minn. She hasn’t ever been a lender. Yet, she was just what Sunrise needed in a leader as it looked to expand its products and diversify its revenue away from traditional products … Read more

Opportunity Remains

Although loan growth has slowed in the Midwest, second quarter figures show CRE and ag lending remain on pace with historical norms. [Continue]

Heroes unheralded

Castle Rock Bank celebrates 100 years of operating “for the benefit of the community—first, last and always.“ [Continue]