Waypoint Bank celebrates a milestone anniversary and honors long-time team members

Thank you to our customers and our community

A milestone means even more when it can be shared. On October 12, the people of Waypoint Bank were blessed to share our milestone – 140 years of serving our customers – with the community our bank first called home.

Waypoint Bank team members gathered with about 100 local businesspeople and customers for Business After Hours at the Cozad Elks Lodge. During an evening that brought out sincere appreciation and fond memories, Waypoint Bank’s leadership shared our gratitude to both customers and team members who helped build our success.

Among the highlights was a presentation from Al Svajgr. He has served as chairman of the family-owned bank’s holding company since 1995. He walked the audience through an insightful history of the bank.

Al Svajgr

L-R Representatives of Ownership: Kevin Olson, Becky Akers, Jeff Svajgr, Keith Olson, Al Svajgr and Kirk Riley. Not present Ginny Olson.

50 Years of Service

Nebraska Market/Cozad Branch President Tim Sladek shared a bit about Julie Knauss’ 50 years of exceptional service to Waypoint Bank – Cozad. Julie’s supervisor Jessica Beisner and Tim presented her with a heartfelt Certificate of Appreciation honoring her longevity and a bouquet of flowers.

L-R Jessica Beisner, Julie Knauss, and Tim Sladek

CEO Kirk Riley then thanked the audience and expressed his deep gratitude to everyone.

 “At Waypoint Bank, we work hard every day to be the best at what we do,” Kirk said. “We strive to always remember we are truly grateful for each one of you.  We are your partners, and care about you, your family, your business, and the things that are important to you. We understand the importance of treating people fairly and demonstrating a strong sense of values such as honesty, integrity, and character every day. 

 “We’re here to serve you, earn your trust, and create long-term relationships. When our customers are happy and successful, we’re all successful.”

L-R Tim Sladek and Kirk Riley

Tim honored Kirk, who is retiring after 42 years of service to the banking industry – the last 20 of which have been at Waypoint Bank. “His leadership has been instrumental to the success of Waypoint Bank. We are excited for the future and to continue and share our successes with the future generations.”

Kirk will mark his last day with Waypoint Bank on January 31, 2024; Tim will become President/CEO on February 1, 2024. 

Waypoint Bank team members

 “A lot of appreciation was shared at our celebration event,” Sladek said. “But our thanks cannot be given enough to our customers that we are so fortunate to partner with!”