Florida Banking October/November 2025

The FNBMD Team looks forward to continuing a proud tradition of service, trust and commitment to their community.

A Leadership Team Built on Longevity FNBMD’s leadership reflects the same stability it offers customers. White has been with the bank since 1990, while Brooks, Ross and Kurtz each bring decades of service. Pease, representing the fourth generation of his family at the bank, continues a long tradition of continuity. “Even though we’re not family-owned, we’re family run,” Kurtz said. “That consistency helps keep us grounded. Our management team’s skills complement each other and that makes us stronger.” Looking Ahead: Balancing Technology and Tradition As FNBMD prepares for its next century, the team is focused on blending modern convenience with personal service. “Customers expect to bank on their phones, but when the transaction adds another zero or two, they want to talk to someone they trust,” White explained. “It’s about finding that balance while keeping the soul of what we do.” Succession planning remains another priority. “We’ve been here 100 years because of customer service and the staff who deliver it,” Pease said. “To keep that going, we have to invest in our people and pass those values forward.”

A Century Celebrated This spirit of never closing — whether through natural disasters, economic downturns, or global pandemics — has become part of the bank’s DNA. Giving Back: A Heart for Service Beyond banking, FNBMD is deeply embedded in its community. Employees serve on boards of schools, hospitals and civic organizations. The bank has supported financial literacy programs, youth sports, scholarships and more. One of its most impactful partnerships has been with Habitat for Humanity. Over the past several years, FNBMD and its employees have helped fund and build four entire homes, participated in holiday playhouse builds for families and contributed to neighborhood revitalization efforts through Mount Dora’s CRA program. “It’s one of the most rewarding things we do,” Kurtz shared. “It’s not just writing checks — it’s rolling up our sleeves and making a visible difference.” The Trust Department also oversees a $30 million community trust fund, established in 1972 with an initial gift of $10,000. Today, it provides scholarships and resources to local charities. “It’s a lasting asset for Mount Dora,” Pease said. “And we’re proud to steward it.” First National Bank of Mount Dora, Continued from page 8 A centennial celebration is more than a milestone — it’s a thank you. On Sept. 10 in Donnelly Park, just blocks from the main branch, FNBMD hosted a community party to honor its customers and kick off the next 100 years. They also donated to local food banks, feeding 100 families for Thanksgiving and organized appreciation events for employees. “This anniversary isn’t just about us,” White reflected. “It’s about our customers, our employees and our community. They’ve allowed us to serve for 100 years, and we look forward to serving for the next 100.”

FNBMD's Andrew Kurtz, Bob White and John Pease, along with FBA's Director of Strategic partnerships Annie Coldstream and SVP of Membership Terry Hughes, enjoy the Centennial Celebration.

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