The Honesdale National Bank Announces Promotion of Sharon Smith

Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Sharon Smith has been promoted to Branch Manager at the Lackawaxen Office.

In making the statement, Sheridan noted, “We are pleased extend this opportunity to Sharon as she grows her career at HNB.” He continued, “She has been proactive in our Lackawaxen community and eager to assist customers with their banking needs which is vital to the HNB & me experience.”

Originally from Queens, NY, Smith moved to the area in her teenage years, graduating from Honesdale High School, and has since received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Management from East Stroudsburg University. She has then pursued over 20 years in retail management at the Dollar Tree in Honesdale and has now spent 2 years in the financial Industry.

As Branch Manager, Smith is responsible for serving the Lackawaxen community by upholding HNB’s strong values and superior service. On top of managing the operations of the office, she will assist customers as they visit for their personal and business banking needs.

In mentioning her new role with HNB, Smith said, “I am glad to be a part of an organization that encourages professional growth and values support for our customers, employees, and communities.” She continued, “I am happiest when I am assisting customers with their banking needs and building relationships within this community and beyond.”

Since 2022, she has been a volunteer on the Board of Directors for Victims’ Intervention Program of Wayne and Pike Counties. She is also a volunteer/member for the Honesdale High School Band Parents Organization. Outside of the bank, she enjoys spending time with her family. 

The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna, and Luzerne Counties.  The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions.  For more information on HNB’s products and services, visit www.hnbbank.bank.

The Honesdale National Bank Announces Chief Technology Officer

Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Robert Hughes has joined HNB as Chief Technology Officer.

In making the statement, Sheridan noted, “I am very happy to have Rob rejoin our HNB Family.” He continued, “His experience in information technology systems will help us strengthen our commitment to broadening the security and depth of our systems that provide support to our customers.”

In his role as Chief Technology Officer, Hughes provides direct management over the institution’s information systems and technology functions; ensures system security; oversees networks and telecommunications as well as management of the information technology department.

Hughes began his career with HNB in 2016, as a Systems Analyst and was promoted to Assistant Vice President.  He gained additional industry insights during a stint at IBM as a Technical Lead prior to his return to the Bank.

In mentioning his role at HNB, Hughes noted, “At this point in my career, it has made me appreciative of the people that work in the HNB family.”

Hughes is a graduate of Scranton Preparatory High School and received a bachelor’s in business administration from La Salle University in 1999. Certifications include MCSA, MCSE, A+ and Net+.

In his spare time, he is a coach in the Abington Youth Basketball League, Abington Little League, and Abington Youth Soccer.

Outside of the Bank, Hughes enjoys golfing, spending time with his children and traveling to new places.

HNB Promotes Employee

Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, has announced Skylar Groover has been promoted to Branch Manager of HNB’s Hallstead Office.

In making the announcement Sheridan stated, “Skylar plays a vital role in our Susquehanna County community.” He continued, “She remains eager to learn and adapt to new challenges while remaining focused on providing incredible customer service to all.”

As Branch Manager, Groover will be responsible for managing the daily operations of the Hallstead Office as well as connecting with customers to understand how to better serve the community.

She is a graduate of Montrose Area High School and is working toward a degree in Marine Science with a focus in Geology.

With just over two years of experience, Groover began her career in the financial industry in 2020 as a part-time teller at HNB. She went on to become a full-time teller, later accepting a position as CSR. She was promoted to Branch Supervisor in 2022.

In commenting on her new role at the bank, Groover noted, “HNB has allowed me room to grow in my career while giving me the tools and leadership to be successful in all areas of banking.” She noted, “Every day I am able to help a customer, I leave work knowing I have made a difference and that is why I love going to work.”

Outside of the bank, she is a Certified Master Scuba Diver, a member of the New Milford Rotary, loves golfing, and spending time with her family.

The Honesdale National Bank Ernest and Margaret Lemnitzer Memorial Fund Supports Graduate

The Ernest and Margaret Lemnitzer Memorial Fund, administered by the Trust Department at The Honesdale National Bank and local Honesdale businessman Paul Meagher, continued its support of those pursuing higher education with the awarding of scholarships to 2023 graduates with a total distribution of $18,418.86.

These prominent Honesdale residents created the Ernest and Margaret Lemnitzer Memorial Fund to support designated charitable organizations within Wayne County, as well as, to provide scholarships to deserving graduates of Wayne Highlands High School.  Ernest was the brother of the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Honesdale resident, Lyman Lemnitzer.

Chloe Rogers, the 2023 recipient of the “Ernest and Margaret Lemnitzer Nursing Scholarship” is scheduled to attend James Madison University to study nursing in the fall. She is a 2023 graduate of Wayne Highlands High School. The Women’s Auxiliary of the Wayne Memorial Hospital selects the nursing scholarship recipient and is based on scholastic achievement. This scholarship totals $18,418.86.

The Honesdale National Bank Trust Department has managed the investments of the Memorial Fund since its inception in 1991. Through prudent investment of the trust assets, grants in excess of $2.7 Million have been paid to qualifying recipients to date. A total of $432,070.80 has been distributed through the Ernest and Margaret Lemnitzer Scholarships alone. For more information about the HNB Financial Group, please call 570-253-3355 or visit the HNB Corporate Center in Honesdale. 

The Honesdale National Bank Promotes Staff

Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, has announced Destiny Megivern has been promoted to Investment Assistant with HNB Financial Services.

In making the announcement Sheridan stated, “Destiny is a very well-rounded team member here at HNB. She continues to adapt through new roles and grows by providing our customers and fellow employees with the HNB & me experience.”

As Investment Assistant, Megivern will be responsible for assisting the HNB Financial Services department in the daily workflow to maximize the sales efforts and minimize the time spent on operational tasks. This includes scheduling appointments, completing and submitting forms, and answering phone calls.

She is a graduate of Forest City Regional School District and resides in Pleasant Mount, PA. Megivern was a manager at Weis in Honesdale before starting at the bank in 2018 as a Teller. She moved away for a short period and was a Universal Banker for a bank in Colorado. When she returned to Pennsylvania, she was rehired in Loan Operations at HNB, and then served as a Teller/ CSR before accepting her current role as Investment Assistant.

In commenting on her new role at the bank, Megivern noted, “I love working at HNB, that is why as soon as I knew I was moving back to PA, I called to see if I could be rehired.” She continued, “HNB is truly one big family, and it makes you look forward to coming to work every day.”

Outside of the bank, she loves to read, bake, and spend time with friends and family.

The Honesdale National Bank Makes Contribution to Susquehanna Community School District

Pictured (L to R): Mr. Robert Goodrich, Michelle Kowalewski, Commercial Loan Officer, HNB; Skylar Groover, Hallstead Branch Supervisor, HNB along with students of the Susquehanna Community School District.

The Honesdale National Bank has recently made a $5,000 contribution to the Susquehanna Community School District via Commonwealth Charitable Management, Inc. through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program. The funds will go towards financial education programs in the school district.

HNB President & CEO, Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., stated, “We are happy to support this school as they enhance their educational curriculum.” He continued, “The best way to get children and young adults prepared for the next step in life, is providing access to critical financial lessons and resources.”

The mission of the Susquehanna Community School District is to nurture an educational environment that will develop life-long learners who will be successful participants in an ever-changing world. Commonwealth Charitable Management, Inc. has been administering EITC since 2003. They have over a decade of experience and have provided millions of dollars in funding to support thousands of students.

The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna, and Luzerne Counties.  The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions. HNB is a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender with NMLS ID # 446237.

HNB Promotes Lisa Valentine Promoted to AVP, Branch Manager

Thomas E. Sheridan, President and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Lisa Valentine has been promoted to Assistant Vice President, Branch Manager overseeing the HNB Montdale Office.

In making the statement, Sheridan noted, “Lisa is an experienced and valued member of the HNB team. We are eager to see her grow in her new role.  Her vast understanding of our offerings and standards is a valuable resource for providing the best service to our customers”.

In her current role as Branch Manager, she is responsible for managing the daily operations of the HNB Montdale Office, building customer relationships, and capitalizing on opportunities to grow business opportunities.

Valentine has 18 years of experience in the financial industry. She started as a part time teller at HNB, then teller/CSR, was promoted to head teller, then Assistant Branch Manager, to her current role as Branch Manager at the Montdale Office.

In mentioning her role at HNB, Valentine said, “I’m grateful to HNB for giving me the opportunity to advance in my career. I love getting to know customers and helping them with their financial needs.”

She currently lives in Lenox Township on her family farm. She graduated from Forest City Regional School District.

Outside of the bank, her spare time is spent gardening, hiking and exploring the outdoors.

The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties.  The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions.  For more information on HNB’s products and services, visit www.hnbbank.bank.

The Honesdale National Bank Makes Donation to The Susquehanna County Interfaith

The Honesdale National Bank has recently made a $3,000 contribution to The Susquehanna County Interfaith through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program. The funds will go specifically to the organization’s Parent Pathways Program.

HNB President & CEO, Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., stated, “Life can change in the most unexpected ways and having organizations like this is something that binds the community together.” He continued, “We are excited to make this contribution in efforts to assist the communities we serve.”


Susquehanna County Interfaith provides access to emergency assistance, advocacy programs, and resources for personal development/life change. They offer educational pathways for personal development and long-term independence. 

The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties.  The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions. HNB is a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender with NMLS ID # 446237.

Pictured (L to R): Karlee Shibley, Lead Case Manager, Susquehanna County Interfaith; Cindy Beeman, Executive Director, Susquehanna County Interfaith; Michelle Kowalewski, Commercial Loan Officer, HNB; Skylar Groover, Hallstead Branch Supervisor, HNB.

The Honesdale National Bank Foundation Makes Contribution to Leadership Lackawanna

The Honesdale National Bank Foundation has recently made a $2,100 contribution to Leadership Lackawanna. The funds will be used to support their SimSoc Program.

HNB President & CEO, Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., stated, “The Foundation is pleased to assist in creating leaders in our community” He then mentioned, “members of our area are supplied with an assortment of skillsets and qualities, and it is important to provide options to drive their opportunity for impact in today’s society.”

SimSoc is a training program that cultivates an unlimited amount of skills such as communication, trust, problem-solving, empathy, decision-making, interpersonal feelings, and much more. This program will be implemented into their Core program to give participants experience and a better understanding of the complexity of our society.

The Honesdale National Bank Foundation was established to further support the Bank’s commitment to contributing to the growth and development of the communities we serve.


Leadership Lackawanna is a 501(c)(3) charitable, nonprofit organization in northeastern Pennsylvania dedicated to community leadership and professional development.  Its six programs – Tomorrow’s Leaders Today, Core, Executive, Leadership Collegiate, Leadership Fundamentals, and Welcome Scranton! – enhance the skills, connections, and knowledge of emerging and established leaders, enabling them to better serve in our communities, workplaces, and organizations. All program curriculum follows the format and standards of all other community leadership programs throughout the United States.  Since its inception, Leadership Lackawanna has graduated more than 2,400 community leaders.

The Honesdale National Bank Foundation is a 501(c)3 entity established by The Honesdale National Bank to engage in community giving initiatives that foster the area’s growth and resources as it has remained committed to since its founding in 1836. The Foundation’s aims to fulfill that mission through initiatives that support the sustainability and strengthening of resources and programming that make local communities thrive and remain desirable places to live, work, and play. The mission will be upheld through the provision of funding for public charities, institutions, schools and other not-for-profit organizations throughout our local area.

The Honesdale National Bank (HNB), established in 1836, is a subsidiary of Honat Bancorp, Inc. HNB holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna, and Luzerne Counties.

Photo Caption: Nikki Morristell, Leadership Lackawanna, Jill Robinson, Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Alissa Weiss, Cash Management Officer at HNB, Andrew Pickett, The Miles Company, Jim Warren, Warren Construction, Gina Suydam, Leadership Wyoming.

The Honesdale National Bank and Local Banks Showcase Strength of Community Banking

The FDIC’s seizure of two larger financial institutions once again shapes the current and future landscape of the financial industry. Fortunately, local businesses and families remain ever supported by the strength and stability of three banks through which this corner of Northeastern Pennsylvania was built.  

The stability of a community can often be defined by the strength of the partnerships that comprise it. For Honesdale and the greater Wayne County area, the individual and collective business practices of The Honesdale National Bank, The Dime Bank, and Wayne Bank continue to fasten the region’s seams.

While the institutions are unique, since their foundings they have shared a common goal — supporting the residents and businesses across the widening breadth of the communities they serve. Diversifying their loan concentrations and oftentimes sharing the risk burden in the name of business development has paved a landscape that is symbolic of community banking.

No financial institution is completely immune to the impact of economic, political or industry-driven events. These Banks’ conservative business models have helped decrease exposure and effectively manage the market’s highs and lows. Their healthy capital and investment strategies have shepherded expansion in markets and resources to stabilize external pressures and foster growth opportunities.  

Healthy competition and collaboration are what set these community banks apart and continue to provide strong, dynamic financial resources for the local population.

The leadership of Wayne Bank, The Honesdale National Bank, and The Dime Bank continue to monitor the markets closely and are prepared to respond to changes as necessary. The local teams at each of their office locations are also available to support questions regarding FDIC insurance and individual financial needs.