As I begin serving you in my new role as Chief Executive Officer and President of the Colorado Bankers Association, I want first to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to our member banks and bankers for placing their trust in me.

I am truly honored to represent this industry and build upon the incredibly solid foundation Don Childears built for this organization over his 47 years with CBA. I am proud to have worked alongside him for more than 20 years. I thank Don for his leadership, mentorship and most importantly, his friendship.

In the coming months, we will be concentrating on ensuring post (and current) pandemic public policy fosters a healthy economic environment, and does not create barriers that hinder the industry’s ability to meet the needs of its communities and customers.

CBA has a renewed vision of highlighting the positive work banks do for their communities. Banks have always been there for their customers, but the Paycheck Protection Program shone a strong spotlight on banks’ commitments. We want to ensure that light continues to shine bright. Public officials can have a short memory, so we will keep the good work you do at the top of their minds.

We have a long history of legislative success, promoting positive bills and defeating bills that would harm the industry and your customers, and we will maintain that track record. Over the years, we have seen an increase in the number and depth of bills that would negatively impact the economy, bank customers and the banking industry should they pass, and we will not let down our guard. CBA is here to shield your bank just as we always have.

We expect to see significant changes in federal regulations prompted by new leadership at the regulatory agencies. Our eyes are laser-focused on their actions to minimize any potentially negative impact.

Team CBA is a small but mighty one that takes each step with efficiency and efficacy in mind toward the benefit of Colorado’s banks. We remain your one-stop shop dedicated to advocating for the banking industry, offering the continuing education you need and providing access to products and services that make your job easier.

Don’t hesitate to contact me if there is anything CBA can do for you or your bank.