BankIn Minnesota Honors Nine Community Bankers with 2026 Legacy of Community Banking Award
Bloomington, Minn., Aug. 4, 2026 – BankIn Minnesota has recognized nine community bankers with its 2026 Legacy of Community Banking Award, honoring individuals who have dedicated 50 or more years to serving the banking industry.
Presented annually during the BankIn Minnesota Convention, the Legacy of Community Banking Award celebrates professionals whose careers have helped strengthen local economies, support customers through changing times, and advance the community banking model across Minnesota.
This year's honorees are:
- Teresa Bergstrom, First National Bank of Milaca
- Carole Borth, Grand Rapids State Bank
- Douglas Brink, First National Bank of Milaca
- Peter J. Clements, First State Bank and Trust
- Philip Forstrom, Citizens Alliance Bank
- David K. Hennies, Arlington State Bank
- Sharon Nordby, Citizens Bank Minnesota
- David G. Smith, First Independent Bank
- Kurt G. Sundquist, Northern State Bank of Virginia
"Community banking is ultimately a people business, and these individuals represent the very best of our industry," said Rich Jones, President & CEO of BankIn Minnesota. "Their careers span decades of economic change, technological transformation, and community growth, yet they share a common commitment to serving customers, supporting local communities, and strengthening independent community banking. We're grateful for the example they have set for current and future generations of community bankers."
Collectively, the honorees have served in nearly every area of banking, including lending, operations, executive leadership, governance, and customer service. Several spent their entire careers with a single institution, while others helped guide their organizations through generations of leadership, economic challenges, acquisitions, and industry change.
Their careers span some of the most transformative decades in banking history. From hand-posted ledgers and passbook savings accounts to digital banking and modern financial technology, these leaders helped their banks adapt while preserving the relationship-based approach that defines community banking.
The Legacy of Community Banking Award recognizes not only years of service, but also the lasting impact community bankers have on the people and communities they serve. Through mentorship, civic leadership, industry advocacy, and a steadfast commitment to their customers, this year's honorees have helped shape the future of community banking in Minnesota.