Photo of a row of orange lockers.

Back to School

Back to School – USB Attends Districts' Activities

As the dog days of summer wound down, Union State Bank was busy helping students and faculty across the region prepare for the upcoming school year. From small group lunches to large scale events, bank representatives were on hand to help celebrate.

“It is highly rewarding to be able to participate in events such as these,” explained Cory Helmer, Union State Bank Market President for Winfield and Udall. “It is important for us to reach our customers where they are, and to continue to show our support for their mission.” 

Helmer’s team participated in a luncheon for the Udall school district. For over ten years, USB staff have met with new teachers and the school district’s leadership on the first staff day of each school year. 

“The luncheon provides a great opportunity to converse and to connect with the new staff, as well as to express our appreciation for the bank’s continued relationship with the Udall School District,” said Helmer. “While we utilize the opportunity to speak about Union State Bank’s solid commitment to the community and the financial services available, it also provides a relaxing break for the new teachers on their first day.” 

Union State Bank’s participation at Cowley College’s community night is likely not referred to as “relaxing” to the staff who participate. Hundreds of students stop by USB’s booth during the two-hour event.

“We love giving the students some swag from the bank and wishing them a great start to the new school year,” said Shelby Floyd, Customer Service Representative for Union State Bank. “I enjoy being able to speak with the students, learn about their majors, if they are in any sports and assist them with any financial questions or needs.”

 The Arkansas City team also participates in their school district’s new staff luncheon. For many in attendance, it is their first interaction with a local bank representative.

“I feel that it is important for USB to participate in these events to help welcome some new members to our community,” said Dax Givens, Lender for Union State Bank. “The time spent allows us to introduce them to some of the people at our bank and answer any questions they would have for us.” 

Union State Bank staff also participated in two back-to-school events in Newton. A new teacher breakfast and an all-staff orientation event in which the USB team interacted with hundreds of faculty and staff members from across that school district.

“Both of these events were well attended and provided a great opportunity for the bank to participate and get good exposure,” said Bryan White, Newton Market President for Union State Bank.

The district’s new teacher breakfast is sponsored by the Newton Chamber of Commerce and introduced 45 new teachers to members of the community.

“This event gets us out in the community and allows bank employees to promote the bank,” said White. “What I enjoy most is meeting the new teachers and getting to know more about them.”

By supporting these back-to-school events, Union State Bank is demonstrating its commitment to education and the communities we serve. These efforts not only provide valuable resources and encouragement but also help strengthen relationships with families and educators who play such an important role in shaping the future. Through our active involvement, USB reaffirms that investing in education is an investment in the growth and success of the entire community.













About Union State Bank: Founded in 1908, Union State Bank has banking locations serving communities of Arkansas City, Newton, Udall, Winfield, and Wichita in Kansas and in Bartlesville and Edmond, Oklahoma. Union State Bank offers a full range of electronic, deposit and cash management services, as well as business and agriculture, commercial real estate, construction, mortgage, residential and consumer loans. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender, NMLS# 412388