Commissioner's Corner
By: J. Thomas Thull
What a tremendous opportunity I have been given by Governor Kathleen Sebelius. To work with all of you, and the staff at the Office of the State Bank Commissioner is an honor and a privilege. After four months in the position, I believe serving as State Bank Commissioner will be the best experience in my professional life.
I have had great life experiences, beginning with my collegiate career at Kansas State University where I earned a degree in Agriculture. After teaching for one year at Riley County High School, I began a nine year stint with USDA, working for what was then known as Farmers Home Administration. FmHA treated me well, but the allure of commercial banking was irresistible, and in 1985 I accepted a position at Central State Bank in Hutchinson. For the past 18 years I have worked for two national banks in Newton, Midland National Bank and Central National Bank, where I served as Vice-President and Branch President, respectively.
My family and I have lived in North Newton for 18 years. During that time I had the honor of serving as Mayor of North Newton for eight years, followed by four years in the Kansas State Legislature representing the 72nd District.
We have an extremely talented staff here at the OSBC. I am confident the bankers of Kansas will remain the beneficiaries of their experience and knowledge. I am hopeful my banking and legislative experiences will prove beneficial as we address the issues facing our industry.
I would like the opportunity to meet as many of you as possible. When we determine what works best for most of your schedules, we'll set some dates and contact you.
I promise to do my best to maintain the high standards set by former Commissioner Norris and will work diligently to maintain the public's confidence in our industry.
