HNB Supports WVIA with EITC Donation The Honesdale National Bank was once again authorized to make approved contributions under the Commonwealth’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program. HNB designated $2,500 of their approved allotment to WVIA Public Media. The funds, donated by HNB, will support educational programming. HNB President & CEO, Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., stated, “The accessibility of public media will continue to be important to our communities.” He said, “We are glad that we are able to continue to serve our area by contributing funding for this program.” Kirsten Smith, Grants & Education Officer at WVIA stated, “Thanks to the HNB’s EITC contributions, WVIA will be visiting many children in our shared region with educational programs to benefit their literacy and STEM needs. I will be certain to inform you of that progress and punctuate how impactful your EITC donations always are in doing wonderful things for children and families in our region.” WVIA-FM is a non-commercial, public FM radio station licensed to serve Scranton, Pennsylvania and is the National Public Radio member station for Northeastern Pennsylvania. The station is owned by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Educational Television Association along with its sister television station, WVIA-TV.
The Honesdale National Bank Donates to Wayne County Food Pantry Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, took a pie to the face after employees contributed funds to the Wayne County Food Pantry. During an employee appreciation event on national Pi Day, employees at HNB rallied to collect funds to donate to the local food pantry. A threshold of $1,000 was placed that stated Sheridan will take a pie to the face to show his appreciation. Members from the food pantry met at the HNB Corporate Center in Honesdale to receive the donation. Employees went above and beyond, pulling together a total of $2,223, which was then matched by HNB for a grand total of $4,446. This is demonstrative of the HNB Family’s commitment to helping other families in need in our community as inflation impacts local community members. 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. Pictured (L to R): Thomas E. Sheridan, HNB President & CEO, Marcy Swingle, EVP, Director of Human Resources at HNB, Clarissa Wimmers, Wayne County Food Pantry Coordinator, & David Hartung, System of Care Coordinator at the Wayne County Food Pantry.
Jamie Shnipes Promoted to Branch Supervisor at HNB Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, has announced Jamie Shnipes has been promoted to Branch Supervisor of HNB’s Eynon Office. In making the announcement, Sheridan stated, “Jamie began her banking career at HNB with the opening of our Eynon Office.” He continued, “We are confident that her knowledge of the local community, and dedication to customer service, will insure success in her new position.” As Branch Supervisor, Shnipes will be responsible for building customer relationships to help customers with their specific banking needs, as well as supporting the everyday operations of the branch. Shnipes began her career in the financial industry in 2013 as a Part-time Teller/CSR at HNB. In 2018 she accepted a fulltime position at the bank. She will continue growing her Career as Branch Supervisor of our Eynon Office. In commenting on her time at the bank, Shnipes noted, “I feel like I have the confidence and the support to grow my career with HNB. I met a lot of great people over the years and I enjoy meeting new people and helping them with their banking needs.” Shnipes resides in Eynon, Pa. and is a graduate of Valley View High School. Outside of the bank, she enjoys being with family, either attending her children’s sports or spending time at their camper.
Thomas Zurla Joins HNB Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Thomas Zurla has joined HNB as AVP, Area Manager of the Bank’s Southwest Area. In making the announcement, Sheridan stated, “We are extremely pleased to add Tom to our HNB family. His knowledge and experience will be a welcome addition to our business and community development strategies in Lackawanna and Luzerne counties, and our company as a whole.” As AVP, Area Manager, Zurla will be providing oversight of the local teams and operations within our Kingston, Montdale, and Clarks Summit Offices. Zurla began his career in banking at Franklin First Savings, which was later named M&T Bank as a Teller/CSR in 1997, and has since held positions including Relationship Manager from 1998-2002, Assistant Branch Manager/Branch Manager from 1998-2018. He continued to assume Retail Banking Training Coordinator from 2018-2020, and AVP, Community Office Manager at FNCB Bank from 2020-2021. He will continue his career as AVP, Area Manager with HNB. In commenting on his new position at HNB, Zurla noted, “To be joining HNB after 25 years in the business is truly humbling. To have the opportunity to reflect on my experience and beliefs in what community banking should be, they truly align with HNB’s values and mission.” He Continued, “I feel this is the perfect “next chapter” in my career.” Zurla is a graduate of Luzerne County Community College and has obtained a degree in Business Management – Technology. Outside of the bank, he is a Member of St Luke’s Episcopal Church quartet ensemble, lector, and stewardship committee. He was also part of Leadership Lackawanna Class of 2021. 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.
NeighborWorks NEPA Receives Contribution from Honesdale National Bank NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania (NeighborWorks) recently accepted a contribution from Honesdale National Bank (HNB), in the amount of $10,000 through the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development’s Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP). The contribution will support the Scranton Beautiful Blocks Program for 2022. Beautiful Blocks, which is jointly sponsored by NeighborWorks and the City of Scranton, provides matching grants of up to $1,000 to each member of a group of at least five Scranton residents to help them make exterior improvements to their homes. Grants are awarded annually through a competitive application process. HNB President & CEO, Thomas E. Sheridan, stated, “At HNB, we are thrilled to support a program that provides greater opportunity for families to grow in our local neighborhoods.” He said, “The future of our communities is vested in partnerships just like these and we appreciate all NeighborWorks is doing to accelerate local opportunities.” “Honesdale National Bank has been a steadfast partner for our community work over the years,” said Jesse Ergott, NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania President & CEO. “Their contribution to this year’s Beautiful Blocks Program is just another example of how they prioritize direct and measurable investment in our neighborhoods.”
Vicky Bryant Promoted at Honesdale National Bank Thomas Sheridan, Jr., President and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Vicky Bryant has been promoted to VP, Data Processing Manager. In making the statement, Sheridan noted, “Vicky has shown her dedication and reliance throughout her career at the bank. We are very happy to have her as a long term HNB Family member. She goes above and beyond for our customers, in support of our goals and in her commitment to our community.” In her current role, Bryant serves as Data Processing Manager, overseeing the Data Processing department at HNB. Looking back on her 29 year career in the financial industry, Bryant began her career with HNB in the bookkeeping department, and shortly after had the opportunity to become a clerk in the Data Processing department. Since then she has been appointed to Data Processing Manager, AVP, Data Processing Manager, and will continue on as VP, Data Processing Manager. In mentioning her role at HNB, Bryant noted, “Working at HNB has given me the opportunity to raise two amazing young men, Michael Bryant is married and working in the natural gas industry & AC1 Daniel Bryant is currently stationed in Virginia for the US Air Force.” She continued, “As a member of the HNB family I have had the opportunity to work at a career that puts family first for its employees while still providing the community the best services available.” Bryant was born and raised in Honesdale and received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from East Stroudsburg University. She has also received Jack Henry University administrator certifications throughout her career. Outside of the bank, she is a member of the Enterprise Grange Torrey, Pa, Cold Spring Chapel Community Kitchen & Laurella 4-H Cloverbud leader. She enjoys helping in the local community and when time and weather conditions allow, you will find her riding a snowmobile.
Casey Ferranti Promoted to Branch Manager at HNB Bank Casey Ferranti Thomas E. Sheridan, President and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Casey Ferranti promoted to Branch Manager overseeing the HNB Lake Wallenpaupack Office. In making the statement, Sheridan noted, “Casey is an experienced and well-respected member of the HNB team. We are eager to see her take on this new role and very confident she will do an outstanding job. Her extensive knowledge of our systems and operations will be a valuable asset in her ability to provide excellent customer service at the branch”. In her current role as Deposit Operations Representative, Ferranti focuses on the maintenance of the deposit database as well as tracking documentation for new accounts. Ferranti has a variety of experience in the financial industry from positions including Teller, Head Teller/CSR, Front Desk Receptionist/Greeter, a Representative in Data Processing for seven years and has spent the last four years in Deposit Operations. In mentioning her role at HNB, Ferranti said, “Working for HNB has allowed me to advance in my career. I have always believed in working hard and gaining as much knowledge as I could in any position I held, from being a teller or working in the back office.” She continued, “Every position gives you opportunity for growth, and not just advancing in your career, but allowing you to obtain the knowledge and experience you need to excel and move forward.” Originally from Honesdale, Ferranti is a graduate of Wayne Highlands School District. Outside of the bank, her spare time is spent with her daughter Adrianna and three dogs. She enjoys the outdoors by hiking, tubing, swimming, fishing, skiing, and ice skating. She has been a member at NEPA Fit club in Blakely for six years. She loves to watch football, whether it’s Friday nights under the lights, or on TV. She is also on the Board of The Dessin Animal Shelter.
HNB Celebrates 185 Years of Supporting Local Communities On December 26 The Honesdale National Bank officially celebrated 185 years in business. The Bank recognizes the milestone as an example of its achievements, but considers it more a testament to its ability to support the financial needs of the local area for years to come. Earlier in December, Thomas E. Sheridan, Jr. rejoined HNB to reprise his role as president and CEO of the oldest financial institution headquartered in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Back at the helm, his sights are set on establishing the course for the Bank’s promising future by harnessing tradition. The historical financial institution based in Honesdale, Pa has done anything but remain stagnant since its inception, often bringing the first of improved customer experience offerings to the area such as the first TV Auto Bank Drive-Up system in 1968, to its most recent deployment of a checking product suite that focuses on benefits that enable their customers to take advantage of all aspects of their life, including protection, wellness and promotion of shopping in our local communities through exclusive deals and discounts. “The benefits that community banks bring to the areas we serve is a point of pride,” said Sheridan. “The directors, management team, and staff at HNB have done an outstanding job in moving the bank forward. They have targeted their efforts on helping our area to prosper by focusing on what is best for our customers. In each and every role, HNB’s people are truly concerned with assisting our customers and willing to provide the extra effort to help.” Sheridan believes that bankers serve a unique and important role in helping communities grow. Ultimately, aiming to elevate all of the factors that make our communities such a desirable place to live, play and work In the Bank’s historic service span, Sheridan noted there have been many extreme challenges to the economy. He shared how HNB not only persevered, but more importantly, helped improve many difficult situations for local businesses and families to help the area forge new beginnings. “Experience has taught us that the greatest innovations are often the result of the need to overcome some significant challenge. The pandemic has forced many of us to face changes. With many people being relieved of the need to live within commuting distance of work, our area is now a residential option for telecommuting. We are very fortunate to live in an area that still embraces the spirit of community. We look forward to providing banking services for the business opportunities of an expanding area and new customers providing that growth,” he said. “The HNB team spends their time and talents thinking of ways for the Bank to better meet the needs of our customers at every stage of life,” said Sheridan. Facing what could be a turbulent year ahead with prospects of inflation, recessions, regulatory scrutiny and more, HNB bodes confidence in its service model as it also prepares to crest $1 billion in assets. Echoing the steps that have been taken in recent years by the Bank’s leadership team, Sheridan stated, “We will continue our quest to stay ahead of the technology curve. With each advancement in technology the ease, speed and security of meeting our customer’s needs is improved and with that comes a better banking experience. Most importantly, we will not lose sight that personal service will always be important in meeting our customer’s needs.” “Our concern for the wellbeing of the people and businesses who bank with us has been the foundation upon which we have built such a long history,” Sheridan said. “This is the standard that has been set and passed on throughout the years among employees and board members. I am looking forward to having the opportunity to contribute to progressing that mission.”
The Honesdale National Bank Foundation Supports Dress for Success Lackawanna Left to right: Mary Ann Lezzi and Elizabeth Nagy The Honesdale National Bank Foundation supports the community with a $2,500 contribution to Dress for Success Lackawanna (DFSL). The funds will specifically support the organization’s Jumpstart Program through Network for Good. Jumpstart is a grant funded yearlong program that blends together personal coaching, technology, technical assistance, peer learning and an educational framework to help non-profits raise funds to support the organization’s mission. HNB President & CEO David Raven stated, “HNB is dedicated to helping our communities’ with funding for support programs in our area.” He continued, “We understand there are challenges that many face when it comes to starting and building a career. Having access to these useful resources can have a great impact on those we care about most.” Dress for Success Lackawanna is a human services agency dedicated to meeting the needs of low-income women who are either unemployed or underemployed. Programs are designed to ensure that marginalized women have the tools and resources needed to obtain a job and build a career. Their mission is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Dress for Success Lackawanna helps by facilitating economic independence, self-sufficiency, confidence and employment retention through their career center, personal development and suiting programs. Funding for the Jumpstart Program will help DFSL establish, diversify and increase individual fundraising revenues to grow these programs as well as the ability to provide services within its six-county footprint. 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.
Honesdale National Bank Welcomes New Branch Supervisor David Raven, President and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Sharon Smith has joined HNB as Branch Supervisor of the Lackawaxen Office. In making the statement, Raven noted, “We are pleased to welcome Sharon to the HNB Family. Her strong retail and customer service experience will be of great benefit as we look to continue to support the needs of our customers in the Lackawaxen community.” Originally from Queens, NY, Smith is new to the financial industry. She moved to the area in her teenage years, graduating from Honesdale High School, and has since received her Bachelors 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. In mentioning her new role with HNB, Smith said, “I am excited to start a new career and reinvent myself in a new industry.” She continued, “I am looking forward to using my decades of experience in the customer service industry to serve my community in a new way.” In her spare time, she enjoys spending it with family, watching movies, or shopping.
