Jan 07, 2025
This year marks a significant milestone for Buckeye Community Bank – our 25th anniversary. In the past quarter-century, Buckeye has grown alongside its clients, built lasting relationships, and provided unwavering support to the communities we proudly serve.
To commemorate the occasion, we reached out to some long-serving teammates to gain their reflections. Their stories and experiences, which are too extensive to capture in their entire here, highlight what makes Buckeye more than just a financial institution, rather a place where care, trust, and community come together.
Samantha Abraham, Chief Financial Officer - 20 Years of Service
“When I first arrived, we were a much smaller institution - 15 employees and occupied only half the size of the original location. Our team was incredibly energetic. I believe that energy still exists. There is a lot of excitement around the opportunities to be involved and make an impact in the community. We often refer to ourselves as ‘the little engine that could,’ and that has been proven as we have dealt with challenges like the financial crisis and pandemic to grow and strengthen. I’m proud of our team’s ability to seize opportunities and support each other and our clients. We have a great culture as proof that people join Buckeye, stay here, grow and succeed.”
Rita Piatt, Vice President, Compliance Officer, BSA Officer - 25 Years of Service
“I’m proud to see a promising venture grow into a thriving bank that is still here and growing. In my time here, banking has changed rapidly, but Buckeye has always cared about its people - its employees and clients. We have seen the hard work and dedication that was there at the start pay off with Buckeye’s growth. What has never changed is our care for people and support for our clients. I’ve always valued the personalized approach we can take. It goes beyond banking; it’s about building relationships.”
Rita Hoyt, Vice President, Operations Officer - 21 Years of Service
“I joined Buckeye because I thought I could make a difference and leave an impression here. Over the years, our work has changed, challenging us to grow, adapt, and wear many hats. I’ve always been proud to be part of a team that embraces change while providing reliable, personal service to our clients and our community. If someone has an idea to improve a service or client experience, you work together to make it happen. The recent core conversion was a major milestone for us, but there have been many over the years. Buckeye has the technology to offer the savvy tools like big banks. However, we have the advantage in that we talk to our clients, know them and are privileged to help businesses have what they need.”
Randy Lottman, Assistant Vice President, Bank Security & IT Officer - 20 Years of Service
“Technology has changed significantly over the decades I have worked in banking. The technology may have evolved, but the focus has remained the same – providing service that clients can trust and connecting with them in ways that make the bank unique. There are so many communication tools available today, but people can’t get in touch with a real person. This has never been the situation at Buckeye. As we continue to expand, we have kept our community atmosphere intact. Our team and our clients know we are here for them and willing to help.”
Cassie Duta, Assistant Branch Manager, LaGrange - 20 Years of Service
“It’s incredible how much Buckeye has grown. You often don’t realize what a great environment you are in. The team here knows our clients and our staff, and they look out for each other. Buckeye’s leadership is not off in a faraway place where you never see them like at big banks. You see them every day, working hard alongside us. Building close relationships is the most rewarding part. It surprises some clients that you remember their names. You often get to know them personally, you know about what’s going on in their lives, and you become friends. It’s incredibly fulfilling to build relationships that go beyond transactions. I hope Buckeye never loses that personal touch.”
