New Jersey Banker - Winter 2017

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NJBankers Board of Directors Gerard Banmiller President/CEO 1st Colonial Community Bank Frederick Bertoldo EVP/Regional President, Northern New Jersey Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Louis Anthony Costantino Managing Director, Industry Manager JP Morgan Chase Edward Dietzler President The Bank of Princeton John S. Fitzgerald President/CEO Magyar Bank

Dianne M. Grenz Executive Vice President/ Director of Sales, Marketing and Advertising Valley National Bank David J. Hemple President/CEO Century Savings Bank

Michael P. Affuso, Esq. Executive Vice President and Director of Government Relations ext. 628 maffuso@njbankers.com

Cris Goncalves Manager of Education ext. 630 cgoncalves@njbankers.com

Emily T. DeMasi

Kathleen A. Stone Senior Vice President/Senior Business Banking Executive BB&T Nicholas J. Tedesco Jr. President/CEO GSL Savings Bank

NJBankers Officers

Claire Anello Office Manager, Database and Website Manager ext. 631 canello@njbankers.com

Contributing Editor

Thomas Shara President/CEO Lakeland Bank

Michael O’Brien* Senior Vice President/Market Manager Bank of America

Thomas Lupo President/CEO Regal Bank

James M. Meredith Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer ext. 614 jmeredith@njbankers.com

Wendy C. Mandelbaum Controller ext. 603 wmandelbaum@njbankers.com

Christopher Martin Chairman/President/CEO The Provident Bank

Craig L. Montanaro President/CEO Kearny Bank

Anthony Labozzetta* President/CEO Sussex Bank

John E. McWeeney Jr. President and CEO ext. 627 jmcweeney@njbankers.com

Emily T. DeMasi Vice President and Director of Communications ext. 610 edemasi@njbankers.com

Gerald L. Reeves* President/CEO Sturdy Savings Bank NJBankers Immediate Former Chairman

Peter Michelotti* President/CEO Community Bank of Bergen County

Stanley J. Koreyva Jr. Executive Vice President/COO Amboy Bank

NJBankers Staff

Jenn Zorn Senior Vice President and Director of Education & Business Development ext. 611 jzorn@njbankers.com

Christopher Maher President/CEO OceanFirst Bank

Lauren Barraza Executive Assistant ext. 618 lbarraza@njbankers.com Cynthia M. Zaccaro Administrative Assistant II/ Senior Administrative Assistant ext. 632 czaccaro@njbankers.com Erin Suckiel Assistant to the Director of Communications ext. 629 esuckiel@njbankers.com

Angela Snyder * Chairwoman Chairwoman/CEO Fulton Bank of New Jersey

William D. Moss * Second Vice Chairman President/CEO Two River Community Bank

James S. Vaccaro * First Vice Chairman Chairman/President/CEO Manasquan Bank

John E. McWeeney Jr. President and CEO New Jersey Bankers Association

Counsel Michael M. Horn, Esq. McCarter & English, LLP Mary Kay Roberts, Esq. Riker, Danzig, Scherer, Hyland, Perretti LLP

*Executive Committee

Contact New Jersey Bankers Association www.njbankers.com 411 North Avenue East Cranford, NJ 07016-2436 Phone: 908-272-8500 Fax: 908-272-6626

The Warren Group Design / Production / Advertising custompubs@thewarrengroup.com

Diane Starr Administrative Assistant to Education Department ext. 600 dstarr@njbankers.com

www.thewarrengroup.com 280 Summer Street • Boston, MA 02210 617-428-5100

Published continually as a quarterly publication by the New Jersey Bankers Association from 1929 to Winter 1986. Revived as a quarterly publication by NJBankers and The Warren Group in 1998 under the name New Jersey Bank & Thrift and continued as New Jersey Banker in 2002. Combined with The League Leader, published by the New Jersey League of Community Bankers, in December 2008 and continued as New Jersey Banker.

Winter 2017 New Jersey Banker

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Table of Contents

Departments 5 Chairwoman’s Platform Cultivating Emerging Leaders 8 From the President’s Office In Search of Talent 8 Upcoming Events

10 Politics & Policy

The Lament of the Peanut Gallery 11 New Associate Members 36 NJBankers Notes

38 NJBankers Shots

Cover

16 BankHorizons

Features

12

Director’s Corner How Technology Is Changing Bank Analytics

34

Feature Dodd-Frank’s Price Tag

14

Behind the Teller Line Amboy Bank – Voted Best Bank 19 Years in a Row

35

Feature Fine Points

18

Feature New Leaders in Banking

33

Meet Our Endorsed Service Provider Allstate New Jersey Puts NJBankers Members in Good Hands

4

New Jersey Banker

Winter 2017

Chairwoman’s Platform

Cultivating Emerging Leaders

By Angela Snyder

S

ince I began my term as chairwoman of NJBankers last spring, many of my messages have focused on the importance of cultivating emerging leaders – people who will guide the financial services industry in the years to come.

But how do you spot an emerging leader? Are you one? What about your co-worker?

A member of your team?

Actually, they’re really not too hard Angela Snyder to spot, once Chairwoman NJBankers you know what Chairwoman/CEO you’re looking Fulton Bank of New Jersey for.

However, emerging leaders are not always the most commanding person in the room; they often “lead from where they stand” rather than taking center stage.

Age, gender, work style, personality type or by the business line in which they work are not really reliable indicators, for emerging leaders span all of these categories.

Here are my observations of some characteristics that all emerging leaders share: They are energetic and highly motivated. This doesn’t mean that they are loud, bouncy people. In fact, while good leaders have strong social skills, some can actually seem just a bit reserved, perhaps because they are very focused and solution-oriented. They have a clear vision for what they want/need to accomplish.

However, they usually display a positive can-do attitude. They see challenges as opportunities, not as problems.

They are highly aware – of themselves and of others. Emerging leaders know how to read the room. They know when to share their ideas and when to listen to others. They are very team-oriented, and they look for win-win opportunities. They are strong individual contributors but also work well as a member of a team. They are reflective, and are realistic about their own

Our world, and our industry, needs more good leaders, and therefore, when we see examples of strong leadership at any level, it is important to recognize and celebrate those efforts. strengths and weaknesses and also those of the people around them. They firmly believe they can learn from everyone.

They seek personal growth, and are catalysts for others to grow as well. We often talk about the importance of lifelong learning. Emerging leaders are the poster children for this concept! They actively seek opportunities to increase their skills.

They are curious. They ask questions, not to further their own agenda, but to learn, and in doing so, they often expand the knowledge of the entire team. They seek feedback on their own performance, and thoughtfully reflect upon that feedback before adjusting their practices and behaviors. continued on page 6

Winter 2017 New Jersey Banker

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Chairwoman’s Platform continued from page 5

They are level-headed, calm and quietly confident. They don’t display wild mood swings. They have a keen sense themselves where they are headed, and how they fit into the bigger picture.

Overall, they remain calm, even in the most challenging circumstances. Although they continually incorporate new ideas and information to adjust their thinking and their actions, their equilibrium rarely wavers. They understand who they are and what they have to offer, and they find ways to play to their strengths while continuing to work on those areas.

They have a strong set of personal values. These values are foundational to who these leaders are and their values guide their thoughts and actions. They have a personal philosophy on life that is rooted in honesty and integrity. They know what is important to them, and they cannot be swayed to do the wrong thing. Many of us would never knowingly do something that is illegal, but a leader’s code of ethics goes beyond the question of

Leadership skills are not just something you’re born with – these skills can be learned, improved, refined and cultivated. legality. It is rooted in being true to oneself and being a positive force in the lives of others. In other words, their values drive their behaviors.

Since one could argue that these characteristics define all leaders, you might be wondering about what defines an emerging leader. In my view, an emerging leader is someone who displays these characteristics, is working to improve, and is capable of greater things, particularly in the area of leadership. They may exhibit some or all of the characteristics noted above, but they have not yet reached their

full potential – in skill development, in job level, or in scope of responsibility.

The important thing to remember is that to a large extent, leadership skills are not just something you’re born with. These skills can be learned, improved, refined and cultivated. And good leaders spend a lifetime trying to improve themselves and others and increase the contribution they make to the team.

Our world, and our industry, needs more good leaders, and therefore, when we see examples of strong leadership at any level, it is important to recognize

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and celebrate those efforts. That’s why NJBankers has developed the NJBankers Leadership Academy devoted entirely to leadership, and has a program within that academy that focuses on development opportunities for emerging leaders. It’s also why NJBankers hosts the annual “New Leaders in Banking” gala and awards ceremony. I hope you will join me in congratulating Sarah Ferrington, vice president/marketing manager, Atlantic Stewardship Bank; Stephany Kim, branch manager and BDO, BCB Community Bank; Alexander Chou, assistant vice president and BSA/AML officer, Boiling Springs Savings Bank; Bridget McFadden, vice president of operations, CSBK; Maggie Colwell, assistant vice president and residential loan assistant manager, Crest Savings Bank; Andrew Hibshman, chief accounting officer, First Bank; Lidia Zdunek, assistant vice president and branch relationship manager, First Hope Bank; Leila Karlsen, vice president and group manager, of my bank, Fulton Bank of New Jersey; James Vincenti, market executive, business lending, Investors Bank; Jennifer Hawley, vice president and assistant director of retail banking, Kearny Bank; Nick Martin, marketing coordinator, assistant treasurer, VBM, Manasquan Bank; Heather Hendry, vice president, enterprise risk management officer, Peapack-Gladstone Bank; and Lauren Christie, vice president and loan servicing manager, Unity Bank; who were honored that night.

As we begin the new year, let’s make some important resolutions: If you feel you are an emerging leader, stay energized, be curious so you continue to learn, and focus on your values so they guide everything you do. If you are already a senior leader, look around you.

Take note of the emerging leaders you work with every day. Then do everything you can to mentor them and provide new challenges, guidance and recognition as they take on greater responsibilities and achieve success ■ Angela Snyder is chairwoman of the New Jersey Bankers Association and chairwoman and CEO of Fulton Bank of New Jersey. She can be reached at asnyder@fultonbanknj.com.

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From the President’s Office

In Search of Talent

By John E. McWeeney Jr.

T

he banking business sure can seem complicated at times. As a highly regulated industry, of course, banking is subject to thousands of pages of rules and regulations. Certainly, the Dodd-Frank Act added to that complexity although perhaps there’s hope with the new administration and Congress for some regulatory relief. Nonetheless banking is complicated in John E. McWeeney Jr. its own right as President/CEO NJBankers evidenced by the alphabet soup of banking acronyms such as CRE, NIM, CECL, ALCO and the list goes on. While it can seem overwhelming at times, banking really is a pretty simple business and it all comes down to people.

When I started my banking career 38 years ago my bank had a personnel department. They were the professionals charged with hiring and training new employees and administering personnel policies. Over time the personnel department evolved into human resources which sounded much more sophisticated but their duties remained the same.

Nowadays everyone talks about talent. Call it what you like, the bottom line is it’s all about people.

For many years it was fairly easy for the banking industry to attract, retain and develop talent. Banking was considered an honorable industry and a great career.

Not so much today as the financial crisis and more recent self-inflicted wounds have damaged the credibility of the industry and along with that the attractiveness of banking as a career. Not a surprise when Congress, the media and politicians are constantly vilifying the industry. But, alas, this too shall pass as the vital role that banks play in supporting communities and stimulating economic growth are undeniable and will rise to prominence again.

In the interim, the search, or should I say, the war for talent, is on. The banks that succeed in building the best talent will be the winners over time. Every bank should have a proactive strategy to hire the best talent, develop it and retain it. This is true at all levels of the bank from entry level to middle management and including the corner office and the board of directors. Just like in sports, whoever has the best players wins.

There are a couple of phenomena that make the banking industry’s current search for talent a little more daunting. One is the emergence of the Millennials as the largest demographic segment of the workforce.

They’re definitely a different breed than the baby boomers that preceded them. Banks must play to their strengths such as diverse career paths, innovation and the altruistic role that banks can play with citizens

and communities to recruit and retain Millennials. Equally as important, banks must acknowledge and embrace diversity.

Our country’s population is changing and it’s both good business and the right thing to do to build a diverse team. This includes more women in the corner office. Our industry has made progress but in my view still has a long way to go on this front.

NJBankers is trying to help its members play and win in the talent game. We recently launched the NJBankers Leadership Academy which offers advanced training for a full spectrum of bank employees from operations supervisors to first level managers to emerging leaders to directors.

Our first year of the program has enjoyed high participation rates so we’re encouraged that we’re onto something. Of course we’ll also continue our efforts to tell the banking industry’s story every chance we get. Despite recent setbacks, I believe our message will resonate, for no other reason than it’s true.

Let me conclude on behalf of our NJBankers officers, directors and staff hoping all of you had a happy holiday season and wishing you a prosperous new year. We hope you have had time to enjoy this special time of year with your family and friends.

Thank you for all of your support. On to 2017!

■ John E. McWeeney, Jr., is president and CEO of the New Jersey Bankers Association, and can be reached at jmcweeney@njbankers.com.

Upcoming Events January 20, 2017

March 20, 2017

May 17-21, 2017

The Palace at Somerset Park, Somerset

Marriott Marquis Washington Hotel, Washington D.C.

The Breakers, Palm Beach, Florida

March 10, 2017

April 5, 2017

Women in Banking Conference

Joint Visit to Washington D.C. with Florida and Oregon Bankers

The Palace at Somerset Park, Somerset

Washington D.C.

Economic Leadership Forum

Board & Management Leadership Summit

ABA Government Relations Summit

113th Annual Conference

June 6, 2017

Renaissance Woodbridge Hotel, Iselin

8

New Jersey Banker

Winter 2017

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Politics and Policy

The Lament of the Peanut Gallery

By Michael P. Affuso, Esq.

A

s a result of the recent election, it appears that the nation is divided and yet united. Divided in the fact that one candidate captured more votes than the other candidate who actually won the presidency, and united in the fact that the vast majority of Americans either chose not to vote or held their nose and voted for who Michael P. Affuso they perceived to Executive Vice President/ Director of Government Relations the be the lesser of NJBankers two evils.

The lament was overheard from Wall Street to Main Street. How can this happen? The answer is simple – you let it. People who choose to affiliate with political parties is at an all-time low and shrinking. Some choose not to affiliate

unaffiliated voters make up the plurality of the electorate; they either tune out entirely or drone on about the poor choice of candidates and the poor policy of the government.

While the unaffiliated stand aside, ideologues, single-interests, party bosses and fanatics dominate both parties. An unaffiliated may point to this situation as precisely why they are not affiliated, but I contend that they are exactly wrong and that this is the particular reason that they should affiliate.

People decry the lack of sane choices of candidates because there’s a lack of sane voices in the room when they are nominated, but these same voices choose not to enter the room. Thus, candidates vie for the support of a conglomeration of single-interests promising to support projects and policies of those interests in the hope that the amalgamation of these interests creates a majority on

In New Jersey, unaffiliated voters make up the plurality of the electorate; they either tune out entirely or drone on about the poor choice of candidates and the poor policy of the government.

out of frustration that no party represents their values while most stand above the party fray crowing that they vote for the best candidate not the party. This liberty not to engage gives license to lament the process and the candidates and allows the person to stand blithely above the fray of “party politics.” In New Jersey,

10 New Jersey Banker

Election Day and a cohesive program of governance thereafter. It rarely does. Then, the peanut gallery laments more.

My suggestion is simple. If you vote like a Republican and have supported Republicans in six of the past 10 elections when a governor, senator or president was on the ballot, register as a Republican and

vote in the Republican primary. If you vote like a Democrat and have supported Democrats in six of the past 10 elections when a governor, senator or president was on the ballot, register as a Democrat and vote in the Democratic primary. Choosing to vote in a particular party primary does not preclude you from voting for the other party in the general election and/or choosing each candidate that you believe best from either party in the general election. Voting in the primary merely creates two opportunities for your voice to be heard in selecting candidates and then selecting officeholders. I’ll also let you in on another little known secret. Registered voters from one party can choose to change party affiliation in the run-up to a primary and then change back before the next primary. Essentially you can have the best of both worlds; you can participate in choosing a candidate of one party and still preserve your right to choose the best person, and not party, on Election Day. I beseech you to make this choice.

Teddy Roosevelt said it best. “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs; who comes short again and again because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” I welcome you to the arena.

■ Michael Affuso, Esq., is executive vice president and director of government relations for NJBankers. He can be reached at maffuso@njbankers.com.

Winter 2017

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Director’s Corner

How Technology Is Changing Bank Analytics

By Malcolm Clark and Lisa Getter

H

ow do you analyze a bank? In the old days, it was a case of getting the most recent balance sheet and financials and “running a slide rule” over them. OK, so we graduated to calculators in the mid-1970s and spreadsheets in the 1980s, but the process did not really change much after that – and still hasn’t, for many community banks, investment banks and advisors to the banks. And that’s short-sighted.

Malcolm Clark Analyzing a balance sheet is something any bank director or executive should be able to do. They’re just missing a trick.

After regulators started making bank call report Lisa Getter data publically available, and the Internet allowed access to market and economic data, traditional bank analysis should have gone the way of the horse and cart. The cost of getting relevant data and running models has plummeted. Cloud-based computing power and data storage provide inexpensive ways for even community banks to reap the benefits of data and analytics without a huge IT department.

The analytics can be far more useful today than was ever conceivable even just a few years ago. This evolving technology can help bank analysts tap into data to create a whole new genre of analytics that take into consideration changes in the economic environment, regulatory capital adequacy

12 New Jersey Banker

and monetary policy. These actionable analytics can produce pragmatic, accurate and highly flexible historical and pro forma reports that can re-educate bank directors on how community banks are operating. They can aid with CECLreadiness, capital requirements and M&A positioning, and provide road maps for effective conversations with regulators. Yet financial reporting in the community bank market is essentially static: Calculating ratios using historical data from annual reports and call reports.

Traditional financial reporting offers limited insight into understanding future implications of a bank’s strategic plans.

The 2008 financial crisis showed the failure of using legacy analytics. Now that we are years into an unprecedented period of artificially low interest rates, new analytics are needed even more.

Regulators have recognized this, and their own pendulum has shifted toward forward-looking risk analytics. Bank examiners are often armed with an analysis of the bank before they even walk into the door. Smart banks should have access to those same types of analytics. Conventional analytics are not only limited, but can lead to the wrong diagnosis. This is especially true in an M&A context. Community bank directors should be asking their analytical teams about trends, economic projections and how they will affect the bank, for themselves, their competitors and their acquisition targets. They should understand how their loan portfolios will behave under stress, so they can document the impact on regulatory capital.

In today’s environment, models can simulate how a bank (or a merger) will perform under various scenarios. With the right technology, multiple scenarios

can be run relatively easily on the bank itself, its competitors or an entire shortlist of potential targets. Such scenario analysis will give bank directors a much better feel for the risks in their bank, their competitive positioning, or the value of a potential acquisition. Regulators are encouraging financial innovation, yet financial reporting has generally remained the same for decades. When data was scarce and difficult to come by, checking a bank’s latest financial statements was all anyone could do. That excuse holds no longer. Done right, a bank’s analytics should allow for comparisons among state or regional average banks, and even among hundreds of banks in the U.S. They should also be able to show the evolution of the bank over several years, and how that compares to any other bank in the country. The analytics should be easy to understand and actionable for the executive team and the board as well.

Bank analysts must take advantage of the sea-change in data availability and inexpensive processing power – realizing that analyzing that data and building the appropriate models may be beyond the ability or time commitment of many community bank analysis teams. If they can’t build a model themselves, they can either collaborate with other banks that can, as the Office of the Comptroller advocated in 2015, or hire a third-party to help.

■ Malcolm Clark is the managing partner for technology and product development at Invictus Consulting Group (www.invictusgrp.com), a data-driven advisory firm that specializes in M&A, strategic and capital planning, stress testing and CECL readiness. He can be reached at mclark@invictusgrp.com. Lisa Getter is the partner in charge of communications at Invictus. She can be reached at lgetter@ invictusgrp.com.

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Behind the Teller Line

Amboy Bank – Voted Best Bank 19 Years in a Row

W

ith 128 years behind them and many more on the horizon, this year Amboy Bank, with $2.3 billion in assets and 22 branches, was voted the Best Bank in Central New Jersey by the readers of The Home News Tribune for the 19th consecutive year.

Since its founding in 1888, the bank has been dedicated to helping to provide affordable housing options.

“Our products and who we are, are very George E. Scharpf President and CEO much oriented Amboy Bank to housing,” said George E. Scharpf, president and CEO of Amboy Bank.

14 New Jersey Banker

The bank has marketed unique products toward its clientele.

Known as “The Builders Bank” they are one of the largest construction lenders in New Jersey. The bank offers the “1/2 Pay Mortgage” – one of the first bi-weekly mortgages and Choice Home Equity that allows combining a line and two fixed loans. Amboy also offers

Senior Choice Home Equity, a proprietary reverse mortgage with no closing costs.

“Most people, including myself, like to stay in our home as long as we can. We found that many seniors probably have more home equity than cash,” Scharpf said.

“Amboy’s Senior Home Equity loans provide seniors with an opportunity to have a home equity line of credit with no monthly payments until they leave their home”, he said, “allowing them to consolidate their debt or giving them the option for emergency cash. We do not sell our mortgages to the secondary market.

That’s fairly unique in New Jersey.”

“We have found many people wanted to do business with Amboy, but they wanted everything online. We have options to service those people who do not have the time to come into the bank,” Scharpf said.

Since 2003, the bank has offered Amboy

Winter 2017

Direct where you can open accounts and use online banking without coming into a branch. A centralized support team is available for client inquiries. The bank also offers mobile banking and online banking allowing customers to access their accounts 24/7.

SUPERIOR CUSTOMER SERVICE Scharpf attributes much of the bank’s success to the quality and longevity of its employees. “We have outstanding people that understand our clients’ success is our success,” he said. Noting two employees who have been with the bank for over 50 years, along with multiple others who have stayed for the long haul, Scharpf said, “People stay and get to know everybody, and we are well known because we are the community bank. It’s our employees and their commitment to helping our clients reach their financial goals that has contributed to our growth. Everyone understands our obligation as a community bank.”

The bank has an Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP), and the employees own approximately 20 percent of the bank. This helps ensure that providing superior service to its clients is the bank, and its employees’ primary incentive.

“All of our employees have a stake in our bank,” Scharpf said. “Their retirement is based upon the quality and value that each of us provide our clients.”

Amboy Bank employees are encouraged to also become involved in numerous organizations throughout the community.

For the past 15 years all branches have held free seminars that address senior issues, hold a bank wide food drive and participate in local school programs. In addition, the Amboy Foundation is committed to serving the needs of its communities through strategic investments of the Foundation’s resources. “We’re very well integrated in the community where we have branches and we have innovative products that offer real value. We do things that community banks do better than anyone else,” Scharpf said. ■

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T

hough winter has rolled around again, on Dec. 1-2, Long Branch’s Ocean Place Resort & Spa was host to the elite of the Mid-Atlantic region’s banking industry.

Through a continuing partnership between the New Jersey Bankers Association and The Warren Group, publisher of New Jersey Banker, BankHorizons shined yet again with solutions providers, banking information and expertise.

This year the conference focused strongly on educational seminars, covering virtually all fields of banking, including network security, M&A, digital banking, regulation, data, cybersecurity and CECL. As if the wealth of industry knowledge and camaraderie was not enough, participants could enter into a raffle to win any of over a dozen prizes. With all of the fun, collaboration and learning only growing each year, 2017’s event seems just over the horizon.

NJBankers and The Warren Group look forward to seeing you next year.

THANKS TO ALL OF THE EVENT’S VALUED SPONSORS! Platinum Sponsor

16 New Jersey Banker

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Winter 2017

All Photos by Donald Christensen

2016 Exhibitors • Abacus I.T. • Advanced MoneySystems, Inc. • All Covered • Aspire Technology Partners • Atlantic Technology Systems, Inc • BAE Systems • Bergen Sign Company • CFT • Classic Equipment Services, Inc. • COCC • Custom Card Systems,Inc. • Eastern DataComm • FDIC • Fiserv • Glory Global Solutions • GraVoc Associates, Inc. • Jack Henry Banking • Lighthouse Payment Services, Inc • MTS Software Solutions • NEACH Payments Group • New England College of Business • Praxis Data Systems • Red Hawk Fire & Security • Residential Home Funding • Security Management Partners • Signature Information Solutions LLC • Specialized Data Systems • Strategic Resource Management • The Jordan Real Estate Group and Quality Title & Abstract Agency •Western Technologies Group •Wolf & Company, P.C. Winter 2017 New Jersey Banker

17

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE RECIPIENTS! Alexander Chou; assistant vice president and BSA/AML officer; Boiling Springs Savings Bank Lauren Christie; loan operations manager and vice president; Unity Bank Maggie Colwell; assistant vice president and residential loan assistant manager; Crest Savings Bank Sarah N. Ferrington; vice president and marketing manager; Atlantic Stewardship Bank Jennifer A. Hawley; vice president and assistant director of retail banking/Northern Region; Kearny Bank Heather A. Hendry; vice president and enterprise risk management officer; Peapack-Gladstone Bank Andrew Hibshman; FSVP and chief accounting officer; First Bank

All Photos by Donald Christensen

B

ankHorizons enjoyed another successful year with a lineup of speakers, all experts in their fields, who shared key information to the future of community banking. In addition, service providers exhibited their solutions at the tradeshow. The event kicked off the night before with the New Leaders in Banking Awards. The awards were bestowed upon up-and-coming leaders, who were nominated by their respective banks. An independent panel of judges reviewed the nominations and this year, there were 13 recipients. We congratulate the class of 2016!

18 New Jersey Banker

Leila Karlsen; group manager and vice president; Fulton Bank of New Jersey Stephany Kim; branch manager and business development officer; BCB Community Bank Nick Martin; marketing coordinator and assistant treasurer; Manasquan Bank Bridget McFadden; vice president of operations; CSBK James Vincenti; senior vice president and department head of health care lending; Investors Bank Lidia Zdunek; assistant vice president and branch relationship manager; First Hope Bank

Winter 2017

Alexander Chou Boiling Springs, is just as patient and concerned about training. I was given opportunities to delve and dive into several new career paths.

What do you consider your biggest success?

Personally: Somehow convincing my wife to marry me.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

Something that will provide a sense of purpose and gratification. As a BSA Officer, it is incredible to be part of coalition of bankers and law enforcement protecting our world from drug traffickers, terrorists, elder abusers and human traffickers.

Title: Assistant Vice President, BSA/AML Officer Bank: Boiling Springs Savings Bank Bank location: Rutherford, New Jersey How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

I graduated college with a history degree, and no clear direction.

Being a teller was originally just a temporary way to pay back student loans. However, that first community bank offered an extremely generous education program. I was able to try out various subjects at the local community college. Eventually that lead to a fully-paid MBA, actual audit experience, and a CPA certification. My current bank,

Congratulations to all of the 2016 new leaders in banking.

Boiling Springs is especially proud to recognize a true leader in banking, our very own Alex Chou!

www.bssbank.com

Member FDIC

Winter 2017 New Jersey Banker

19

Lauren Christie might be a good fit for me so I applied for an open position as a commercial and SBA loan closer at Unity Bank in 2005. After seeing how I could contribute to the overall efficiencies of the department, I dove right in and after a short time, my efforts paid off and I was promoted to loan operations manager. Unity Bank has afforded me numerous advancement opportunities and provided me the autonomy to make decisions within my area and ultimately have these decisions supported by Senior Management. That is why I stay at Unity Bank. Management supports our employee efforts and provides an environment where employees can grow and expand their knowledge, share expertise and provide outstanding customer service to Unity Bank customers.

Age: 37 Title: Loan Operations Manager, Vice President Bank: Unity Bank Bank location: Clinton, New Jersey Town of residence: Stillwater, New Jersey

What do you consider your biggest success?

How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

I began my career as a loan closer with a large non-bank lender.

After working there for several years, I decided I wanted to contribute more to an organization. I decided community banking

I believe I have created a team environment within the department.

I openly share my experiences and expertise and show how each job is important within the department, provide cross-training and keeping my team challenged every day.

I love to teach new things to people and get even more pleasure out of seeing their successes multiply. For this reason I would probably seek out a career in the field of early education.

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20 New Jersey Banker

Winter 2017

Maggie Colwell reasons. I have had the privilege to work with some not only amazing bankers, but amazing people in a true community bank.

What do you consider your biggest success?

My recent promotion as an assistant vice president

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

Possibly become a teacher.

Age: 30 Title: Assistant Vice President, Residential Loan Assistant Manager Bank: Crest Savings Bank Bank location: Cape May County, New Jersey Town of residence: Dennis Township How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

When I began my undergraduate studies an employee of Crest Savings Bank referenced me to join the team. I stayed for many

Crest Savings Bank’s Directors, Officers and Staff would like to extend Congratulations to our very own

Maggie Colwell and all the 2016 New Jersey Leaders in Banking Honorees!

Maggie Colwell, AVP Assistant Manager Residential Lending Department

Big Bank Products • Community Bank Service 609.522.5115 • crestsavings.com

Winter 2017 New Jersey Banker

21

Sarah N. Ferrington I stayed throughout my college years until present day, because I realized banking is so much more than financial transactions.

I experienced a lot of firsts through my banking career from helping the community and volunteering my time; to learning how to problem solve and finding solutions for customers. I found this to be extremely rewarding and an outlet for my passion to give back.

What do you consider your biggest success?

Age: 38 Title: Vice President and Marketing Manager Bank: Atlantic Stewardship Bank Bank location: Midland Park, New Jersey Town of residence: Morristown, New Jersey

I have been a part of numerous team projects with the majority of my career focusing in marketing and my highest achievements have come from branding and marketing communication endeavors. I have worked for a few different community banks and coordinated the branding process as far as developing new taglines, determining the distinguishing personality that connects the bank to their customers and launching social media programs for each. For example, at ASB our new tagline is “Faithful to our customers,” which speaks to our unique ability to tithe or share 10 percent of taxable income, our stewardship and financial responsibility to our customers as well as our personal service.

How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

I began in banking as a part-time teller as part of my high school co-op program. I realized then that working for a bank, I could receive a discount on my college loans and I needed the assistance.

I enjoy being creative and helping others and I have a soft spot for children. Thus, I would be doing something in the nonprofit world assisting children and their families..

Jennifer A. Hawley How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

Community banking, in fact banking in general was not something I sought out, I more stumbled upon it 16 years ago. However I can say for certain it is not something I ever see myself leaving. I stay because it gives me a chance to give back to mankind and the communities we serve both on a personal and organizational level. It’s a great tie in to work for a community bank whose mission and vision is in line with the purposes I love to serve on a personal level as well.

What do you consider your biggest success?

Age: 34 Title: Vice President and Assistant Director of Retail Banking/ Northern Region Bank: Kearny Bank Bank location: Fairfield, New Jersey Town of residence: Whippany, New Jersey

22 New Jersey Banker

My biggest successes have been in watching those that work for me have the ability to flourish and grow individually. It brings great reward to have guided others to be successful within their own careers and furthermore to then contribute to the overall success and growth of Kearny Bank.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

If I were not a community banker I could envision myself deepening my volunteer efforts. I enjoy spending most of my free time finding creative ways to overcome challenges and adversities in our communities while giving back to others and increasing their quality of life.

Winter 2017

to Sarah Ferrington ASB Vice President/Marketing Manager on being named one of the

2016 BankHorizons New Leaders

ASBnow.com

(201) 444 -7100    Locations in Hawthorne | Midland Park | Montville | North Haledon | Pequannock | Ridgewood | Waldwick | Wayne | Westwood | Wyckoff

Heather A. Hendry operations position. The banking industry piqued my interest, so I was excited to get my foot in the door. In my 10 years at PGB, I’ve had the opportunity to spend time in a few different areas other than deposit operations: the client contact center, information technology and finally enterprise risk management. When the position opened up in enterprise risk management, I knew that I had found where I was supposed to be.

What do you consider your biggest success?

Age: 31 Title: Vice President, Enterprise Risk Management Officer Bank: Peapack-Gladstone Bank Bank location: Bedminster, New Jersey Town of residence: Budd Lake, New Jersey How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

I came into community banking in an entry-level deposit

My biggest success is implementing an enterprise-wide risk management program. The program consists of vendor risk management, IT risk management, information security and operational risk management. The program requires involvement from all areas of the bank, which was a cultural change throughout the company. The program continues to evolve as regulatory requirements change. The program not only keeps the bank in alignment with regulatory requirements, but also empowers all bank professionals to understand the risks and controls of their businesses.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

If I weren’t a community banker, I may have pursued a career in the arts.

Peapack-Gladstone Bank congratulates our very own

Heather Hendry

and all 2016 New Leaders in Banking on their outstanding achievement.

Heather Hendry, Vice President, Enterprise Risk Management Officer

24 New Jersey Banker

Winter 2017

Making Us Proud!

Jennifer Hawley

Vice President, Assistant Director Retail Banking North

Congratulations, Jennifer, on being named “A New Leader in Banking” from everyone at Kearny Bank.

Your contributions are vital to our success, for today and for tomorrow.

1-800-273-3406 • 42 Banking Offices kearnybank.com

Andrew Hibshman bank auditing. Approximately five years ago I left public accounting and began working at a small community bank in Philadelphia before recently accepting my current position six months ago. In over 12 years of banking experience, I have enjoyed and appreciated the community bank model. Even with a challenging and evolving economy I believe that community banks, as well as other small businesses, continue to serve a vital role in the communities they serve. I have personally seen the successes of community banking and want to remain a part of something that inspires me.

What do you consider your biggest success?

Successfully juggling my career aspirations while helping to raise two amazing daughters with my wife Jennifer.

Age: 35 Title: FSVP/Chief Accounting Officer Bank: First Bank Bank location: Hamilton, New Jersey Town of residence: Yardley, Pennsylvania How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

I started my career in public accounting and quickly became interested in the banking industry. The accounting firm I was working at had a strong banking group which led me into community

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

Teacher coach.

and

soccer

Leila Karlsen Fulton Bank of New Jersey, Group Manager

Fulton Bank of New Jersey congratulates Leila Karlsen on being named one of the 2016 “New Leaders in Banking” by the New Jersey Bankers Association. Leila joined the bank in November of 2013 as a Group Manager and during her time here, has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a dedication to success. She was brought on board to unify the Atlantic County branches and create momentum to grow market share in the region. Since Leila joined our bank, deposits in her region have grown by 59%, the loan portfolio has grown by 38% and new households have grown by 60%.

But it’s not just about the numbers. Leila has a unique ability to unify a team and strengthen bonds where they were weak, which can be attributed to her coaching and team-building skills. She believes in the “work hard, play hard” motto and that is evident by the high level of employee engagement in her region.

Recently, Leila was the head of committee created to plan the Presidents Meeting for the Officers of the Bank. Leila made it a point to become acquainted with each committee member, identify their strengths and delegate tasks according to their strengths. Her organizational and leadership skills enabled her to lead the committee to plan an exceptional event that far surpassed our President’s expectations.

1.855.900.FBNJ • fultonbanknj.com Member FDIC.

26 New Jersey Banker

Winter 2017

Congratulations

to First Bank’s ANDREW HIBSHMAN and to all the 2016 New Leaders in Banking honorees.

First Bank is proud to have one of its valued employees receive this prestigious honor!

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Leila Karlsen supporting local causes. Fulton Bank of New Jersey has a family dynamic and an inclusive culture, where everyone is respected and our voices are heard. I am fortunate to work there, and that is why I stay.

What do you consider your biggest success?

Age: 35 Title: Group Manager and Vice President Bank: Fulton Bank of New Jersey Bank location: Atlantic County, New Jersey Town of residence: Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

From an early age I’ve always felt a calling to work with money. As I grew, so did my desire to help people make better decisions with their money. My heart is in community banking because I love that I am able to help people by providing them with financial solutions as well as make an impact in my community through outreach and

I believe that life is a series of small successes, each of which gives us the confidence and experience to set new goals and achieve the next success. Goal setting is very important to me, both in my personal life and professional life. My most recent professional success has been driving the growth of our Atlantic County branches in the past few years, despite the struggling economy in Atlantic City. My team focused on customer acquisition and retention through growing new households and deepening existing customer relationships. As far as personal success, I am proud that I pedaled my bike a challenging 80 miles for Bike MS to help find a cure for multiple sclerosis.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

I would have loved to get into acting or television show hosting. I think I would find enjoyment in being a morning show host such as on the “Today” show or “Good Morning America.”

Stephany Kim to stay in community banking because of its commitment to my neighbors and local businesses I frequent.

What do you consider your biggest success?

Assisting those on my team move along in their career path.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

Television news anchor.

Age: 27 Title: Branch Manager/Business Development Officer Bank: BCB Community Bank Bank location: Edison, New Jersey Town of residence: Highland Park, New Jersey How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

I came to community banking while attending college. I continue

28 New Jersey Banker

Winter 2017

Nick Martin interned for both the commercial and residential lending areas.

Nearing graduation I was offered the role of marketing coordinator and I accepted. I stay because I love the brand that myself and my team have built and the bank is like my family.

What do you consider your biggest success?

I would have to say my biggest success would be the implementation of our new brand that was introduced to the marketplace in the summer of 2015. It allowed us as a financial institution who was known to be very quiet and humble in the marketplace, become very well known and iconic to the area again. This in a way kicked off many other successes in the digital media and technology areas for marketing as well as the bank as a whole.

Age: 27 Title: Marketing Coordinator and Assistant Treasurer Bank: Manasquan Bank Bank location: Wall Township, New Jersey Town of residence: Howell, New Jersey How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

During my college years I made the connection with the bank and

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

I would likely be working for a marketing agency or at an investment firm. I know they are at opposite ends but I do have a background in investing and finance aside from my marketing and banking focus.

However, I do not see myself leaving community banking in the short term. New Jersey banking is a fun and competitive arena that challenges me to market on a daily basis. Going a tad more “dreamy,” I would have to say professional golfer, photographer or working at Apple in design; as they are my other passions outside of banking.

Bridget McFadden as we’re building our bank and redefining ourselves in our communities for the future.

What do you consider your biggest success?

Age: 32 Title: Vice President of Operations Bank: CSBK Bank location: Clifton, New Jersey Town of residence: North Arlington, New Jersey How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

I started in banking with a larger community bank and I was looking for stability, professional development and opportunity. Then, I came to CSBK and began to realize and enjoy the role community banks play in their local municipalities and to the individuals and businesses that we serve. I enjoy working with the customers and members of the CSBK family and work hard to maintain their trust. We’re also at a great place

30 New Jersey Banker

My biggest professional success occurred during the conversion from one core processing system to another. In addition to the speed at which we did it, I was able to integrate my retail banking experience with my knowledge of banking operations. We were able to convert without any interruption and it allowed me to be a resource for my co-workers.

This experience also gave me the foundation to work together with our banking centers, deposit operations and IT department as we expand our digital banking and technology products.

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

If I wasn’t a community banker, I would probably be in the army. Growing up with a father that is a Purple Heart recipient after serving two tours of duty in Vietnam, I have a tremendous respect and appreciation for the men and women that defend our freedom and serve our country.

Winter 2017

James Vincenti Age: 35 Title: Senior Vice President and

from bank management and hard work and dedication from our team.

Department Head of Health Care Lending Bank: Investors Bank Bank location: Short Hills, New Jersey Town of residence: Wayne, New Jersey

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

Given my passion for New York sports, I most likely would have pursued a career in sports journalism.

How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

I began my career in banking right out of college in a management associate program for a north Jersey based bank. Being a New Jersey resident my entire life, I take pride in making a difference in the communities of my home state. Investors Bank provides tremendous support and the tools necessary to be a leader in the communities that we serve.

What do you consider your biggest success?

I consider the successful transition of starting up a ground floor health care lending department for Investors Bank as my greatest career achievement. I couldn’t have done so without the support

Congratulations to our very own for being honored as a New Leader in Banking.

James Vincenti Senior Vice President/Team Leader Business Lending - Healthcare

Banking in your best interest.

855-iBank4U • myinvestorsbank.com

Winter 2017 New Jersey Banker

31

Lidia Zdunek

and First Hope Bank came to mind. Why did I decide to stay? Because First Hope Bank is not only an employer to me but also it became part of my family. Over the years, I have developed great relationships and friendships with many of my peers while building a strong rapport with my clients. The small bank mentality, going above and beyond to satisfy our customers, our bank’s commitment to the local community, the support and appreciation the bank has for its employees are very close to my heart and make me proud to be a part of this great financial institution.

What do you consider your biggest success?

I think my biggest success was becoming an educated, successful and independent woman. Neither of my parents went to high school so they made it their priority that my sister and I get a good education.

As a mother myself, I’ve made it my priority to become a good role model for my now 7-year-old son and when he tells me he’s proud of me and that “Mommy always can make it happen” whatever that “it” is, makes me feel like a superwoman.

Age: 37 Title: Assistant Vice President, Branch Relationship Manager Bank: First Hope Bank Bank location: Sparta, New Jersey Town of residence: Hamburg, New Jersey How did you come to community banking, and why do you stay?

If you weren’t a community banker, what would you be doing?

It really happened by accident and the true reason why I decided to look for a job at a bank was strictly because I was good with numbers. My first ever bank account I opened at First Hope Bank so once I decided to start life here, I knew I needed a job with potential for growth so banking

If I wasn’t a banker, I think I would be in law enforcement. Growing up in Poland in the ’80s and ’90s, a female police officer was something unheard of so I never even considered going to a police academy. Helping others and making a difference in the lives of others is something that I truly value and I feel that being a banker gave me that opportunity.

Congratulations

Lidia Zdunek

First Hope Bank would like to congratulate Lidia and the other recipients of the New Jersey New Leaders in Banking Award!

Lidia Zdunek

Assistant Vice President Branch Relationship Manager

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FDIC

32 New Jersey Banker

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Feature

Dodd-Frank’s Price Tag

By Rob Nichols

T

he president’s Council of Economic Advisers seems to have taken to heart Mark Twain’s suggestion to “get your facts first, then you can distort them as you please.”

A report from the group released in August reviews the aggregate performance of community banks then boldly – and illogically – concludes that the Dodd-Frank Act has not harmed that segment.

Specifically, the report claims that bank branching patterns, lending growth and geographic reach “show that community banks remain strong.”

The statement is jaw-dropping in its willful disregard for the true cause and effect of the disappearance of 1,708 banks – or 22 percent of the industry – since the enactment of Dodd-Frank in 2010. It’s as if the White House Rob Nichols is saying “what does it matter if we are losing a bank a day, there are others around that can lend.”

We know how much it matters – to you and to the communities that no longer have their local hometown bank. And we know that it is more than just market forces and “macroeconomic conditions” that are

driving the twin trends of bank consolidation and the dearth of new bank charters.

As I said in a letter to the CEA respectfully challenging its conclusions, the thousands of pages of new regulations that have been imposed on community banks in recent years is an enormous driver of decisions to sell to a larger bank. Those same regulations are restricting product offerings, like mortgages, and discouraging banks from growing for fear of the increased regulation that is triggered by crossing an arbitrary asset threshold. This leaves customers with fewer choices and communities with less service.

Complex, ill-fitting rules – from Dodd-Frank and beyond – are also to blame for the lack of de novos in recent years. The CEA suggests the real reason is low interest rates, but large numbers of new banks have formed in past recessionary times, so that argument just doesn’t wash.

The CEA’s conclusions, in short, feel forced and out of touch. Had the researchers called real, live bankers who are grappling with how to grow their business in the current regulatory environment, they could have gotten right to the heart of the matter. They might have heard something like this, taken from a note that one of ABA’s members continued on page 35

Get the straight story from experienced audit professionals.

Our audit professionals use a risk-based model incorporating a deep understanding of your industry, business, and internal controls. Experience proactive communication, quick response to issues that emerge, and candid advice.

Connect with us: bakertilly.com/industries/banking

Sign up to receive timely alerts and articles: bakertilly.com/insights/subscribe Baker Tilly refers to Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP, an independently owned and managed member of Baker Tilly International. © 2016 Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP

34 New Jersey Banker

Winter 2017

Feature

Fine Points

By Camden R. Fine

F

or Independent Community Bankers of America, it was simply the last straw. It wasn’t even a close call.

The National Credit Union Administration’s irresponsible power play earlier this year to ignore the explicit member business lending limits Congress has set for credit unions could not be ignored.

As you’ve heard by now, ICBA filed a federal lawsuit last month against the NCUA for its flagrant disregard for the plain meaning of both the letter and the spirit of the Federal Credit Union Act. Specifically, on behalf of community banks nationwide, the association has asked a federal court to invalidate the NCUA’s member business lending rules set to take effect in January.

If unchallenged, the NCUA’s latest rogue promulgation will deliberately create Camden R. Fine loopholes so vast as to render meaningless the explicit statutory 12.25 percent total-asset cap on credit union commercial lending that Congress purposefully put in place. Certainly, this disingenuous regulatory interpretation will expand, to an absurd degree, the federally funded competitive advantages tax-exempt credit unions enjoy over community banks. In the process, however, the regulation also tramples upon consumers, taxpayers, the financial system and the integrity of responsible government.

Adding further shame to the NCUA’s action, Congress has repeatedly and formally rejected credit union efforts to expand their commercial lending activities.

Community bankers know firsthand the NCUA’s longstanding reputation for bureaucratic featherbedding rather than impartial regulation. ICBA has long and repeatedly criticized the NCUA for abandoning its duty to act as a responsible regulator overseeing a highly subsidized industry. Time after time, incremental step by egregious step, the agency has transparently chosen the role of a

permissive enabler of unbounded credit union industry demands.

Mostly serving the wishes of a few large, aggressively growth-oriented credit unions, the NCUA for years has adopted rulemakings that plainly bend, stretch and waltz around clear congressional statutes and intentions.

A still freshly minted case in point that ICBA is closely monitoring involves the NCUA’s proposed field-of-membership rule that would eviscerate the definition of “well-defined local community,” which by law limits the territory a community-based credit union can serve. If adopted, that proposal would make an absolute mockery of statutory credit union membership restrictions, allowing by one example a seven-state territory to qualify as “local” community from which credit unions could accept members.

Enough is enough! NCUA is too far out of control. For ICBA, it’s time to take a firm and unequivocal stand against the NCUA’s unlawful regulatory adventurism. By filing its lawsuit, ICBA wants simply to compel the agency to adhere to the law when writing its rules. Our legal action is not undertaken lightly. We did not want or seek this fight, but we are compelled to defend community banks and Main Street America and, fundamentally, the integrity of equal protection under law. Failing to act otherwise would tolerate government malfeasance and, yes, arbitrary tyranny. America’s founding principles and heritage demand that no man is above the law. Neither is any private corporation or, as our lawsuit reminds, any public agency.

As the nation’s voice for community banks, ICBA is taking this stand on behalf of the nearly 6,000 community banks nationwide. Our action reflects ICBA’s mission to create and promote an environment where community banks flourish. We will take our cause all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court if necessary.

■ Camden R. Fine is president and CEO of the Independent Community Bankers of America. Email him at cam.fine@icba.org.

Dodd-Frank's Price Tag continued from page 34 recently sent explaining his bank’s decision to hang it up: “Unfortunately we became a victim of Dodd-Frank. The effects of Dodd-Frank – plus other regulatory issues – resulted in financial projections showing substantial declines in revenues and increases in compliance costs, reaching the point that in a few short years an otherwise healthy community bank with strong capital and satisfactory earnings could no longer meet a number of financial bench-marks set by the regulators. These conclusions forced the bank to sell now when our shareholders and some of our employees would be less adversely affected.”

When this bank merged with a larger one, half of its employees lost their jobs. And that highlights yet another costly toll of governmentinduced consolidation: the lost contributions of men and women who

play leading roles in their communities.

John Ikard, last year’s ABA chairman, said it well in his farewell speech at our convention. A community can lose their bar or their grocery store, but they can’t lose their bank, adding that online lenders are no replacement. “You can’t go online to get a leader.

Banks don’t just provide money. They provide the people who serve on the school board, United Way, churches.”

That kind of involvement – which undoubtedly makes communities richer – is not something any economist can put a value on.

■ Rob Nichols is president and CEO of the American Bankers Association. Email him at nichols@aba.com.

Winter 2017 New Jersey Banker

35

Notes Diane Scriveri

Karl A. Towns

Daniel F. Dougherty

CSBK CSBK announced the appointment of Diane Scriveri to executive vice president and chief commercial loan officer. Scriveri is a New Jersey banking veteran whose career has spanned a number of institutions, primarily within Bergen County. During her community banking career, she has served in various senior management positions in the commercial and residential real estate areas. She is very active in both industry and community organizations.

She currently serves as chair of the New Jersey Bankers Association Residential Mortgage Committee, as a member of the New Jersey Bankers Association Commercial Lending Committee and the American Bankers Association mortgage technology and commercial lending groups. Scriveri also serves in various positions with several Bergen County community outreach organizations. She is the 2016 recipient of the NJBankers Warren Hill Award. See page 38.

HIGHLANDS STATE BANK The American Bankers Association has selected Steven C. Ackmann, president and CEO at Highlands State Bank, to serve on ABA’s Community Bankers Council. The ABA Community Bankers Council, which meets twice a year, is made up of approximately 100 bankers from institutions with generally less than $3 billion in assets.

Members are appointed by the ABA chairman. Ackmann serves as CEO and president of Highlands Bancorp, Inc. and Highlands State Bank since September 2014, and previously president and COO of Highlands State Bank since 2012. His 40 years of banking career includes 14 years as president, COO and

36 New Jersey Banker

Jegan Vengada

Kurt Breitenstein

Stuart Vorcheimer

Timothy E. Doyle

director of Promistar Financial Corp. in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Other previous duties have included service as the CEO, president and director of Fidelity Deposit and Discount Bank in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He also served as president of Tile Bank of Princeton, New Jersey. He is active with several nonprofit organizations and has served as the chairman and as board member for various nonprofit community and business organizations.

president and treasurer. Dougherty, who has more than 20 years of banking and treasury experience, succeeds Maria Lopes, who stepped down from her role in October. A chartered financial analyst, Dougherty is a member of the New York Society of Security Analysts, and has a Master of Business Administration degree in finance from St. John’s University. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics with a minor in business from SUNY at Stony Brook.

THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF ELMER

ORITANI BANK

The First National Bank of Elmer announced that South Jersey native and community banker Karl A. Towns has joined the bank as senior vice president, COO and chief risk officer. Towns was recently the senior vice president and chief compliance officer for Audubon Savings Bank, a mutual savings bank in Audubon, New Jersey. He also served as executive vice president of the banking alliance division for EPX. He is a graduate of the American Bankers Association Stonier Graduate School of Banking and ACAMS Certified AntiMoney Laundering. Through his years of experience as an accomplished banking professional, he continues to be a valued member of the South Jersey Community.

Towns also serves his community as an educational advocate for children with autism and other disabilities and is a former Board Member for Exceptional Care for Children.

Oritani Bank announced that it has hired Jegan Vengada as vice president and business development officer, and Kurt Breitenstein as senior vice president of commercial lending.

Vengada brings 15 years of industry experience, eight of which were exclusively spent in the business banking segment. In his new role at Oritani Bank, Vengada will be responsible for new business acquisition in the Oritani marketplace located in Bergen, Hudson, Passaic and Essex Counties.

He has expertise in providing services to medical professionals, which will be his primary focus. Breitenstein has 30 years of experience in banking and 26 years of experience in credit and lending.

He has held senior lending positions at Sussex Bank, Valley National Bank and Interchange Bank. In his new role of senior vice president of commercial lending, Breitenstein will be responsible for developing new client relationships and leading Oritani’s New Jersey team by expanding the bank’s presence in the New Jersey and surrounding markets.

INVESTORS BANK Investors Bancorp Inc., the holding company for Investors Bank, has announced that Daniel F. Dougherty, CFA, has joined Investors Bancorp Inc. and Investors Bank as senior vice

PEAPACK-GLADSTONE BANK Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corp.

Winter 2017

We assist banks, attorneys and title agencies with Corporate and UCC searches in NJ and PA. and Peapack-Gladstone Bank announced the appointment of Stuart Vorcheimer to the position of senior managing director and market president. Operating out of the bank’s Teaneck location, Vorcheimer will be responsible for directing a team of private bankers helping to build the bank’s wealth, lending and deposit business while servicing commercial businesses in the Northern New Jersey area. He has worked in the financial services industry for 27 years with a focus on middle market companies ensuring long-term achievement of their financial goals. He is chairman of the board of the Metropolitan YMCAs, the largest YMCA association in New Jersey. Additionally, Vorcheimer serves as co-chair of the Metropolitan YMCA’s annual Kids Care golf tournament and serves on the executive, investment, executive compensation committees and the YMCA merger task force.

The bank also announced the promotion of Timothy E. Doyle to senior vice president and chief risk officer at Peapack-Gladstone Bank. In his current role, Doyle is responsible for the enterprise risk management and compliance programs at PeapackGladstone Bank as well as operational risk, supervision of stress testing and policy and regulatory compliance. He has over 30 years of financial services experience in transaction and relationship banking including leveraged structuring, execution, marketing and management.

Prior to joining Peapack-Gladstone Bank, he served as senior vice president and chief credit officer at Crown Bank, Indus American Bank and Millennium bcp Bank. In years prior, he had credit and leadership responsibilities at Sovereign Bank, Summit Bank/Fleet National Bank and CIBC World Markets.

■

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Winter 2017 New Jersey Banker

37

Shots

1st Constitution Bank employees, friends and family gathered together as sponsors for the 2nd Annual Music Saved My Life Softball Tournament. Who knew bankers could be so good at softball? Although the team did not take the prize home, it was a day well spent with laughs, healthy competition, sweat and just good old fun in the sun! 1st Constitution Bank is a proud sponsor of the Annual Music Saved My Life Softball Tournament and is looking forward to more memories with this charity. From left to right are Jay Cordaro, Andrea Pagiazitis, Edward Gough, Joseph Burns, Sean Hickey, Lindsy Prunaeu, William Wood, Katie Golden, Pat Wallace, Michele Carroll, Allyson Cardullo, Jeff Brown, Tina Hungrige and Bobby Carroll The Warren Hill Award was established in 1998 to honor Warren Hill, the NJ League’s president from 1966-1975. The award is presented to the current or former committee member who has demonstrated an overall commitment to meeting the mission of the committee including assistance to NJBankers legislative and regulatory efforts and developing educational content for seminars and conferences. Other criteria includes the effectiveness recruiting new members to the committee as well as new member or associate member recruitment efforts. At the recent NJBankers Senior Management Conference, John E. McWeeney Jr., NJBankers president and CEO, presented Diane Scriveri, executive vice president and chief commercial loan officer, CSBK with the 2016 Warren Hill Award.

Valley National Bank held its eighth annual breast cancer walk titled Valley Goes Pink! Valley Goes Pink! is an inspirational and impactful opportunity to raise money and awareness for the Cure Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF).

All of the proceeds raised are used for research and conferences at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and other national and international research facilities under the direction of Dr. Larry Norton, M.D, who serves as the Foundation’s Scientific Advisor. The event kicked-off at 1460 Valley Road in Wayne, New Jersey, and over 700 employees, family members and friends came together to raise money for the CBCF. Contributions from this year’s event totaled nearly $100,000 and over the past eight years, Valley has raised over $800,000 in support of Dr. Norton’s research.

38 New Jersey Banker

Magyar Bank representatives provided a $1,500 donation to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey in support of their Students Change Hunger Program which encourages schools from across New Jersey to collect donations of nonperishable food items for the Community Food Bank of New Jersey. The school that collects the most donations will win the Governor’s Cup. Pictured from left to right are John Reissner, vice president, marketing director, Magyar Bank; Tim Boyle, manager, Community Food Bank of New Jersey; and Joseph Yelencsics, director, Magyar Bank.

Regal Bank joined over 38 million neighbors across 16,124 communities in celebration of National Night Out, America’s Night Out Against Crime. National Night Out is a cohesive effort to promote police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Regal Bank sponsored the Florham Park Police Department photo opportunity, giving community residents the chance to have their picture taken with a police motorcycle. Pictured from left to right are Helen Monteiro, customer service representative; Olga Rego, teller; and Albert Salas, branch manager for Regal Bank’s Florham Park branch.

ConnectOne Bank interns split into two teams and were challenged to raise money for the charity of their choice with amazing results. Team One’s fund raising efforts earned over $3,800 in support of Eva’s Village in Paterson’s adult recovery and medical and dental programs. Team Two’s initiatives raised over $6,100 for Sound Start Babies Program in Mountain Lakes which provides a three-year intervention program for children age 0-3 years who have hearing loss.

Winter 2017

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