Union State Bank Celebrates Community Banking Month
April is Community Banking Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the vital role community banks play in strengthening local economies. Established in 2007 by Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), this month-long observance raises awareness of the unique services and meaningful contributions community banks provide nationwide.
“As community bankers, we know relationships matter. Our actions in support of local schools, nonprofits, businesses and other community institutions make a difference, and when our customers see our commitment to our communities, it deepens their connection with us,” said ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey.
Community banks are powerful engines of local job creation and economic growth, employing nearly 700,000 people across 45,000 locations nationwide. Despite typically being smaller in size than large national chains, ICBA data shows community banks provide the only physical banking presence in one out of every three U.S. counties. By being embedded in the heart of their communities, these institutions provide vital financial services to individuals and businesses that might otherwise go underserved.
“We at Union State Bank are proud to carry on the community banking philosophy that began when we were founded in 1908,” said Eric Kurtz, President and CEO of Union State Bank. “From our smallest branch in Udall, Kansas, to our metro locations in Wichita, Kansas, and Edmond, Oklahoma, we are committed to being strong community partners in every market we serve.”
Community banks account for more than 60% of all small business loans and over 80% of agricultural lending in the U.S., according to the Federal Reserve’s 2025 Report on Employer Firms. That same report shows community banks leading the way in borrower satisfaction—surpassing online lenders and large financial institutions.
“There’s a misconception that community banks can’t compete with larger institutions when it comes to commercial banking,” said Amber Groene, Vice President and Director of Treasury Services at Union State Bank. “In reality, our strength lies in understanding our customers' businesses and helping them grow with customized treasury solutions and support from an experienced team of bankers.”
According to the ICBA, community banks collectively represent roughly $4 trillion in consumer, small business and agricultural loans. These institutions focus on building strong relationships with their customers, and their deep knowledge of local economies enables them to provide tailored financial solutions that supports customer growth.
Romero Rainey adds, “Community banks fuel small businesses while building relationships that foster trust and support long-term growth in local communities nationwide,” Rainey said. “Their commitment to local decision-making, personalized service, and reinvesting locally is what sets them apart and helps promote strong, resilient communities.”
As we celebrate Community Banking Month, Union State Bank is proud to play an invaluable role in building stronger, more vibrant communities.
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