EARLVILLE – Jim Bann, Director of NBE Bancshares, and Chairman and Director of Pioneer State Bank, has chosen to step down from these roles, effective in January 2021. Bann has served Pioneer State Bank, and before that, the National Bank of Earlville, since 1964 as an officer, president and ultimately chairman of the board.

During that period, Bann oversaw the construction of what is now the home office of Pioneer State Bank along with the acquisition of the State Bank of Paw Paw by NBE Bancshares. Bann has guided the bank through economic periods both challenging and prosperous, and, his wisdom and expertise have helped to ensure that Pioneer State Bank is the successful bank it is today.

In addition to his years of service to the bank, Bann has also served the City of Earlville with great dedication, as a member of the IVCC Foundation Board, the Earlville Library Board, the Earlville School Board, as well as a member of the Earlville Lions Club for over 50 years.

Michael Stevens is replacing Bann as Chairman of the Board of Pioneer State Bank. Stevens, who has over 30 years of banking experience, has served as the CEO of Pioneer State Bank since 2013. During that time, Stevens oversaw the merger of the National Bank of Earlville and the State Bank of Paw Paw as well as the acquisition of Farmers State Bank of Sublette.

While Bann is retiring from an active role with NBE Bancshares and Pioneer State Bank, he will serve in an advisory capacity as Chairman Emeritus of NBE Bancshares, advising the board as needed. Pioneer State Bank wishes Bann, his wife Geri, and his family much happiness and health in the years to come.

Despite the challenges and difficulties of the past year, Pioneer State Bank remains both profitable and highly capitalized. As a true small-town bank, Pioneer State Bank takes great pride in supporting each of the communities in which they serve.