Pub. 12 2017-2018 Issue 4

WWW.NEBANKERS.ORG 8 WASHINGTON UPDATE Y OU’VE HEARD THE SAYING THAT THERE ARE THREE KINDS OF people in the world: people who make things happen, people who watch things happen, and people who won- der what happened. In my experience, the women and men who lead America’s banks fall decidedly into the first camp. It could be because you lead the institutions that serve as the engine of America’s economy—and together, you comprise one of the most important industries in our nation. It could also be because most of the bankers I meet and talk to in my travels are deeply engaged in industry affairs. They are at their state association’s convention, serving on its board, or volunteering on one of ABA’s many councils, working groups, or committees. They are tending not only to what their employees, customers, and communities need, but also to what the industry, economy, and country need to thrive. This extra service makes a big difference. When bankers engage in their association’s affairs or in advocacy, a host of good things happen. Some examples: It was a member of ABA’s “official family,” for instance, who suggested ABA fly down to Houston and Naples following Hurricanes Harvey and Irma and capture on video—for all to see—how banks and bank employees were responding to the local disasters. The result of that suggestion is a video—which you can view at aba.com/HurricaneResponse —that showcases how bankers lead their communities in difficult times. We’ve been promoting this video widely and encouraging bankers to do the same because it tells such an important and positive story about our industry. I’m grateful to Bob Jones of United Bank in Atmore, Ala., who serves on the ABA Founda- MAKING THINGS HAPPEN Rob Nichols, President & CEO, American Bankers Association