Union State Bank Welcomes Educators Back to School
First published August 2026
As summer came to a close and a new school year approached, Union State Bank teams across the region were out in the communities we serve, helping welcome educators and students back to the classroom. From teacher luncheons and breakfasts to large-scale community events, USB employees took part in a variety of activities designed to recognize educators, connect with students and celebrate the start of another school year.
For Union State Bank, supporting local schools is about more than showing up for an event. It is an opportunity to build relationships with educators, families and students while demonstrating the bank’s continued investment in the communities it serves.
In Udall, Union State Bank continued a tradition that has been part of the bank’s relationship with the school district for more than a decade. USB employees joined district leadership and new teachers for a luncheon held during their orientation event. The luncheon provides an informal opportunity for bank representatives to meet educators who are new to the community, reconnect with school district leaders and offer a warm welcome as the new school year begins.
“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.
The bank’s involvement extended to Cowley College, where Union State Bank representatives participated in the college’s community night. The two-hour event brought hundreds of students through the bank’s booth, giving USB staff an opportunity to visit with students, hand out giveaways and learn more about their college experiences, interests and future plans. Conversations ranged from students’ majors and extracurricular activities to questions about banking and personal finances.
“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,” said Shelby Floyd, Customer Service Representative for Union State Bank.
Arkansas City’s Union State Bank team also participated in the local school district’s new staff luncheon. The event provided an opportunity to welcome educators who were new to the district and, in many cases, introduce them to members of the local banking community for the first time.
“Union State Bank has a long history in Ark City. We pride ourselves in being part of the community and recognize the important role our educators have in developing the next generation of local leaders,” said Clayton Pappan, USB’s Director of Marketing. “When we go to events such as the luncheons we are able to witness that first-hand as we regularly see former ACHS students returning as new teachers.”
In Newton, Union State Bank employees participated in two back-to-school activities: a new teacher breakfast and an all-staff orientation event. Together, the events provided the bank with an opportunity to interact with hundreds of educators and school district employees from throughout the Newton community.
The new teacher breakfast, sponsored by the Newton Chamber of Commerce, welcomed educators who were beginning their careers with the district. The event brought new teachers together with local business and community leaders, helping them establish connections and become familiar with the community they would now call home.
“What I enjoy most is meeting the new teachers and getting to know more about them,” said Bryan White, Newton Market President for Union State Bank.
From welcoming first-year teachers to connecting with college students, Union State Bank’s back-to-school involvement reflects the bank’s commitment to supporting education and the people who make a difference in the lives of students every day. These events provide opportunities to celebrate educators, strengthen community relationships and remind students and faculty that their local bank is invested in their success.
As another school year gets underway, Union State Bank is proud to stand alongside the educators, students and families who help make our communities stronger. Supporting education today helps build a stronger community for tomorrow.