Fraud Prevention Manager, Stacie Wolter, will review trends from tech support scams to phising emails, calls and texts – learn the best way to keep yourself protected.

Seminar Details

Tuesday, April 8, 2025
2:00 p.m. at Spring Creek Independent & Assisted Living
110 2nd Avenue, Armstrong, IA 50514

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Seminar Details

Wednesday, March 26, 2025
8:30 a.m. – Noon at Fendt Lodge (AgCo)
202 Industrial Pkwy n Jackson, MN

Guest Speakers

David M. Kohl, Ph.D.

Dr. Dave Kohl is an academic Hall of Famer in the College of Agriculture at Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA. Dr. Kohl has keen insight into the agriculture industry gained through extensive travel, research, and involvement in ag businesses. He has traveled over 10 million miles, conducted more than 7,000 presentations, and published more than 2,500 articles in his career. Dr. Kohl’s wisdom and engagement with all levels of the industry provide a unique perspective into future trends.

Jackson Takach

Jackson Takach, the Chief Economist and Vice President of Strategy, Research, and Analytics at Farmer Mac, is a Kentucky native whose strong ties to agriculture began while growing up in the rural town of Scottsville. He joined the Farmer Mac team in 2005 and has worked in the strategy, research, credit, and underwriting departments. Jackson is a lead author and creator of The Feed, Farmer Mac’s publication on ag and the rural economy, and he regularly presents to lenders, producers, and industry experts throughout the year. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in economics from Centre College, a Master’s degree in agricultural economics from Purdue University, a Master’s in Business Administration, and a Master’s degree in finance from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. He has also been a CFA charterholder since 2012 and currently sits on the board of AgAnalytics and AcreValue.

This educational seminar is provided free of charge. Tours of Fendt Lodge will be available afterwards.

Please scan the QR code to register for the tour.

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Mary Kay Bates, President, and CEO of Fortress Union Bank, expressed her confidence in Luke’s abilities, stating, “Luke brings a wealth of experience and an unparalleled dedication to our customers. His strategic leadership and forward-thinking approach make him an ideal fit for the role of Chief Banking Officer.”

Luke Donnenwerth, reflecting on his new responsibility, shared, “Taking on this new role is truly an honor, and I couldn’t be more excited. I look forward to working with our exceptional team to continue the growth and success of our company while serving and supporting the communities we’re proud to be part of.”

Having joined Fortress Union Bank in 2010 as a commercial loan officer, Luke has been serving as Market President for Spirit Lake, Okoboji, and Wall Lake, IA since 2022. A native of Spirit Lake, he graduated from the University of Northern Iowa and began his banking career in 2005. Luke’s outstanding abilities were recognized by BankBeat.biz, which named him a Rising Star in Banking in 2023. That same year, he actively participated in the Iowa Bankers Association Leaders in Advocacy Program, representing the banking industry at the state and national levels. Most recently, Luke was recognized as Dakota Finance SBA Lender of the Year and was honored with the designation of Patriotic Employer by the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

Apart from his professional accomplishments, Luke is actively involved in various organizations, including the YMCA of the Okobojis, where he serves as CVO Elect; the Spirit Lake Youth Athletics, where he holds the position of Treasurer; and the Good Neighbor Fund, where he serves as Board Chair. Luke is also involved in the Spirit Lake Noon Kiwanis, among other organizations. Alongside his wife, Megan, Luke is a proud parent of three children.

The team at Fortress Union Bank extends their congratulations to Luke Donnenwerth on his well-deserved promotion to Chief Banking Officer. His exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence will undoubtedly pave the way for continued success for the organization.

Fortress Union Bank is an employee-owned organization with 11 locations throughout Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota. The financial institution has assets exceeding $1 billion, and is a full-service financial institution offering loans and traditional FDIC-insured accounts, as well as insurance, investment and trust services. *Investments and insurance services are not deposits, not FDIC insured, not guaranteed by the bank and may go down in value.

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Place holds a degree in Ag Business from South Dakota State University. With a strong background in the agricultural and business sectors, he has demonstrated his expertise and commitment to serving the needs of farmers and businesses and brings valuable experience to his new role.

Outside of work, Place is a devoted family man, married to his wife, Alicia, and proud father to their 2-year-old son, Myles. Currently an active member of Jackson County Pheasants Forever, Place is excited to become more involved in the community as he takes on this new role at Fortress Union Bank.

With seven years of experience in the banking industry, Place has proven himself to be a valuable asset to the Fortress Union Bank team. His dedication, work ethic, and commitment to exceptional customer service set him apart in his field.

“I am honored to accept this promotion and to continue serving the banking needs of the Jackson community,” said Place. “I look forward to building strong relationships with our customers and supporting their financial goals.”

Molly Fransen, Market President at Fortress Union Bank, expressed her enthusiasm for Place’s promotion, stating, “We are thrilled to have Brady step into this important role. His industry knowledge and passion for serving the agricultural and business communities make him the ideal candidate for the Ag and Commercial Lender role. We have full confidence in his ability to provide exceptional service and help our customers achieve their financial goals.”

About Fortress Union Bank

Fortress Union Bank is an employee-owned organization with 11 locations throughout Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota. The financial institution has assets exceeding $1 billion, and is a full-service financial institution offering loans and traditional FDIC-insured accounts, as well as insurance, investment and trust services. *Investments and insurance services are not deposits, not FDIC insured, not guaranteed by the bank and may go down in value.

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Besides her professional accomplishments, Fransen is known for her commitment to her family and her active participation within the Jackson community. Embodying the spirit of a farm family, Fransen, alongside her husband Tim and their three daughters, embraces the joys of family life, including the pursuit of “chasing our kids around” and creating lasting memories at the campground and lake with friends.

Her passion for service extends beyond family to include extensive involvement in various volunteer positions and board memberships throughout the community. Fransen currently serves as the President of the Jackson Business Development Committee and holds the position of Vice President of her church council. Additionally, she is a dedicated teacher, touching the lives of preschoolers within her church youth group. She volunteers her time at 4-H shows during the fair and serves as a judge for the FFA Ag Sales Contest.

“Molly’s promotion to Market President is a testament to her unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership within our organization,” remarked Mary Kay Bates, President and CEO. “Her experience, coupled with her deep ties to the Jackson community, make her an outstanding choice for this role. We’re confident that Molly will continue to excel in her new position and further strengthen our commitment to the community.”

Fransen expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I’m humbled and honored to take on the role of Market President at Fortress Union Bank’s Jackson location. I look forward to leading our efforts to provide exceptional service to the residents and businesses of Jackson.”

About Fortress Union Bank

Fortress Union Bank is an employee-owned organization with 11 locations throughout Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota. The financial institution has assets exceeding $1 billion, and is a full-service financial institution offering loans and traditional FDIC-insured accounts, as well as insurance, investment and trust services. *Investments and insurance services are not deposits, not FDIC insured, not guaranteed by the bank and may go down in value.

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A resident of Sioux Falls for nearly two decades, Arndt brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Fortress Union Bank. He holds a Master’s in Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Yale University.

Arndt’s career has been marked by various leadership roles, including co-founder of Kinder Future Fund and Executive VP/COO at Bell Incorporated in Sioux Falls. His industry experience spans across notable positions at Microsoft, Rooster.com (Cargill), and Procter & Gamble.

In addition to his impressive business background, Arndt actively participates in various community and civic leadership positions. Currently, he holds the role of Treasurer on the Board of Directors for the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum & East Sioux Falls Historical Site, as well as serving as the Finance Chair for the Spirit of Peace UCC. Arndt’s dedication to the Sioux Falls community is evident through his previous involvement in key organizations such as the Denny Sanford Premier Center, Sioux Empire United Way, Washington Pavilion, Kirby Science and Discovery Center, among others.

In response to his appointment, Arndt expressed, “I am honored to join Fortress Union Bank’s Board of Directors. I look forward to contributing to the team’s dedication to delivering exceptional financial solutions and furthering the bank’s growth and success.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome Ben to our Board. His experience, insights, and commitment to the community align perfectly with our mission and values,” stated Mary Kay Bates, President and CEO of Fortress Union Bank. “We look forward to his contributions in shaping the future of Fortress Union Bank.”

With the addition of Ben Arndt, Fortress Union Bank continues to exemplify its commitment to attracting talented leadership and strengthening its position as a leading financial institution.

Fortress Union Bank is an employee-owned organization with 11 locations throughout Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota. The financial institution has assets exceeding $1 billion and is a full-service financial institution offering loans and traditional FDIC-insured accounts, as well as insurance, investment and trust services. *Investments and insurance services are not deposits, not FDIC insured, not guaranteed by the bank and may go down in value.

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Waller began her banking career after a college professor suggested she go to work for a bank and learn as much as she could. Since then, she’s gained extensive knowledge in commercial lending, retail banking, and all facets of bank products and services.

“Karen’s reputation as a banker is excellent, and her experience in getting to know customers well and understanding their needs is vitally important,” said Rick Rysavy, Market President. “Karen’s dedication to the banking industry is notable, including spending 35+ years in her last position. We’re fortunate she chose Fortress Union Bank.”

Kathy Thorson, Executive Vice President of Client Experience added, “Karen provides exceptional care for her customers. She works hard to understand their goals, communicates well, and provides them with a level of service that is beyond their expectations.”

Waller is an active member of her community, serving on the boards of Boy Scouts of America and Junior Achievement and as the Vice President of Rotary West, to name a few. She has a BA in Business and Psychology from Buena Vista University. Karen and her husband, Doug, live in Sioux Falls where they raised their 4 children and continue to appreciate all the opportunities the city provides.

“I’m excited to be part of the Fortress Union Bank team,” said Waller. “Understanding the unique needs of my customers and delivering personal service is important to me. I believe the team at Fortress Union Bank is positioned to deliver a great experience, something you should expect from your bank and your banker.”

Fortress Union Bank is an employee-owned organization with 11 locations throughout Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota. The financial institution has assets exceeding $1 billion, and is a full-service financial institution offering loans and traditional FDIC-insured accounts, as well as insurance, investment and trust services. *Investments and insurance services are not deposits, not FDIC insured, not guaranteed by the bank and may go down in value.

The post Fortress Union Bank Welcomes Karen Waller as Vice President of Business Banking appeared first on Fortress Union Bank.

Phone Service

Hours change

Customer Support Hours — claimsdept@fortressunion.com

• Change: Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. (change from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.)
• Saturday 8 a.m. – Noon (no change)

Video Teller (ITM) Service

Hours change and New Locations

Video Teller (ITM) Service Hours

• Change: Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. (change from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.)
• Saturday 8 a.m. – Noon (no change)

Video Teller (ITM) Service Locations

• Current locations: Iowa – Armstrong, Okoboji, Wall Lake; Minnesota – New Ulm, Sherburn, Westbrook; South Dakota – Sioux Falls
• New locations: Minnesota – Jackson and Windom

Drive-Up Service Hours

Hours Change for select locations

Fairmont Drive Up Hours

• Change: Monday – Thursday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (change from 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.)
• Friday 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (no change)
• Saturday 9 – 11 a.m. (no change)

New Ulm Drive-Up Hours

• Monday-Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (no change)
• Change: Saturday closed (change from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.). Video Teller/ITM available for transactions.

Jackson Drive-Up Hours — effective May 11

• Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (no change)
• Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. (no change)
• Change: Saturday closed (change from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.). Use new Video Teller/ITM

Windom Drive-Up Hours — effective May 11

• Monday-Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (no change)
• Change: Saturday closed (change from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.). Use new Video Teller/ITM

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Nicky Simpson who has been leading the Armstrong, Iowa branch since 2021 was recently promoted to Market President, overseeing the Fairmont, Sherburn, and Armstrong locations. Nicky will continue to work out of the Armstrong location for 2 to 3 days a week overseeing operations and working closely with customers.

Andi Glasnapp, an Armstrong native, has been promoted to an Ag Lender. In her new position, she will be responsible for building long term relationships with agricultural clients by providing customers extensive financial analysis and guidance on business practices.

“Congratulations to Andi as she transitions into her new role,” said Simpson. “Andi’s experience working closely with customers and the expertise she’s gained in lending will serve her and our Armstrong customers well. I am excited to see what she’ll accomplish.”

Simpson has nearly 25 years of banking experience, of which 14 have been in key positions at Fortress Union Bank. When she’s not at work, Nicky spends time enjoying the outdoors and attending children’s sporting events with her husband, Nic, and their two daughters.

Glasnapp has been with Fortress Union Bank since 2023. When she’s not at work, Andi spends time outdoors with her husband, Carson and their two sons.

Fortress Union Bank is an employee-owned organization with 11 locations throughout Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota. The financial institution has assets exceeding $1 billion, and is a full-service financial institution offering loans and traditional FDIC-insured accounts, as well as insurance, investment and trust services. *Investments and insurance services are not deposits, not FDIC insured, not guaranteed by the bank and may go down in value.

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Thorson is a Sioux Falls native. She began her banking career as a teller while attending Augustana University and has an extensive background in both commercial and retail banking, bank operations, and leadership. In previous roles, Thorson served as a Market President for South Dakota and Iowa.

“We’re thrilled that Kathy has joined the team,” said Rick Rysavy, Market President. “She brings a wealth of knowledge to Fortress Union Bank and a strong commitment to community service and her clients.”

Mary Kay Bates, President and CEO of Fortress Union Bank added, “Kathy is uniquely qualified to guide us as we enter our next chapter in Sioux Falls. Most importantly, her commitment both to community service and her clients aligns well with Fortress Union Bank’s core values.”

Thorson is an active member of her community, serving on the boards of Collision, Forward SF, YMCA, and SD Prayer Coalition. She’s also been the Wine Social chair for the Sioux Council Boy Scouts for numerous years, as well as past board chair. Kathy has a BA in Business Administration from Augustana University and a Master of Business Administration from the USD. Thorson and her husband, Dr. Richard Howard, live in Sioux Falls where they enjoy spending time with family and friends as well as attending many community activities.

“Assisting good people with their financial goals while building lifelong relationships is what matters most,” said Thorson. “Fortress Union Bank’s approach to banking will serve Sioux Falls well, especially as our community continues to evolve.”

Fortress Union Bank is an employee-owned organization with 11 locations throughout Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota. The financial institution has assets exceeding $1 billion, and is a full-service financial institution offering loans and traditional FDIC-insured accounts, as well as insurance, investment and trust services. *Investments and insurance services are not deposits, not FDIC insured, not guaranteed by the bank and may go down in value.

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