Stearns Bank National Association continues to build on its reputation as an industry leader and innovator with the addition of Mary Jepperson to the Board of Directors. Jepperson has a long history of breaking new ground in the financial industry. She began her career in the Minneapolis office of Coopers & Lybrand, where she became the office’s first female partner. Highly experienced in forensic accounting and litigation services, Jepperson is now a Professor of Accounting and Finance at the esteemed College of Saint Benedict/Saint John’s University.

“Mary will be a fantastic addition to our Board, and a perfect complement to our current Board members who are extremely successful, visionary business leaders,” said Stearns Bank President Kelly Skalicky. “She has a stellar reputation, and she is extraordinarily passionate about achieving the highest level of performance.  Mary’s depth of accounting and audit expertise, coupled with vast experience in the financial industry, will provide extremely valuable strategic guidance for Stearns Bank.”

“Stearns Bank is a powerhouse in the banking industry, and I’m looking forward to contributing to its trademark success,” said Jepperson. “The opportunities for growth and innovation have never been bigger for Stearns Bank. The organization has positioned itself to reach new levels of success in the coming years, and I’m excited to be a part of it.”

In 2017, Stearns Bank was recognized as the #1 top performing bank in its peer group by both American Banker Magazine and Independent Community Bankers of America. Stearns was also named to Minnesota Business Magazine’s list of 100 Best Companies to Work For in 2017.

Jepperson attended her first Stearns Bank board meeting on February 26th.