Pub. 7 2016 Issue 4

www.wvbankers.org 8 West Virginia Banker Thanks for the Memories By Donna Atkinson I t’s really hard to know where to start, but let me take this opportunity to reflect on what my position at WVBA has meant to me. There have been so many people who have supported me throughout the last 16+ years and I will never forget the influence they have had on my life, both personally and professionally. But I’d like to start with the staff of WVBA – WOW! What can I say, but how wonderful it has been to work with such a group of loyal employees. Even though we all have our individual responsibilities and “do our own thing”, we gather together at the lunch table and share what’s going on in both our work life and our personal life. It’s like being home and talking around your kitchen table! I have absolutely loved working with each and every one of them. As many of you know, I was a banker for 24 years prior to joining WVBA. I already experienced the pride of being a banker – it’s an industry that I have always felt proud to be associated. I also knew of the challenges bankers face and how keeping current with emerging issues and regulations was so important. When I accepted the position at WVBA as Director of Education, I recognized it was essential to provide key educational events to bankers throughout West Virginia, from the teller to the CEO, so they could remain up-to-date and continue to learn. At the end of each event I would always look forward to reviewing the evaluations and would get a sense of accomplishment that I helped provide the knowledge they needed. One of the highlights of my time here has been my opportunity to visit many areas of West Virginia and see parts of the state I would have never seen. We live in a beautiful state and our bankers love and support their communities. I have seen this first hand and am proud to have been a small part of it. Lastly, I cannot thank the bankers in West Virginia enough for the continued encouragement, support and appreciation you have shown me. It’s bittersweet to say goodbye and leave a position I have loved. It has been an honor to work here. As I look forward to making new memories, I will always cherish the memories I have made with you. Thank you and I wish the WVBA continued success!  What can I say, but how wonderful it has been to work with such a group of loyal employees.