JOHNSTON, Iowa (March 5, 2025) — Ten bankers from across the state helped kick off Iowa PBS’ annual pledge drive, known as Festival, which continues through March 16. Volunteers answered pledge phones from 5-9:30 p.m. to help raise $8,690 for the public television network.

“The Iowa Bankers Association has been a longtime supporter of Iowa PBS, and we look forward to the continued partnership,” said Jenica Lensmeyer, the IBA’s vice president of marketing and industry relations. “Our partnership with PBS is a natural fit — we both value strengthening Iowa communities through education.”

The IBA and Iowa banks have been involved with Festival for 27 years, beginning in 1998. And this year’s volunteers represented three banks from across the state in addition to the association.

“Last year was my first time volunteering for Festival. It was such an amazing experience – I knew I had to come back again this year,” said Julia Mason, assistant vice president and operations manager at South Story Bank & Trust in Huxley. “I loved meeting new people and forming connections with other bankers. I also enjoyed getting a behind-the-scenes look at Iowa PBS – what an impressive operation. Most importantly, I take pride in being part of a partnership that truly makes a difference in our state.”

About the Iowa Bankers Association
The Iowa Bankers Association represents Iowa banks and savings institutions. Iowa bankers are committed to the values of honesty, hard work and community service, and have been a trusted resource for Iowans for more than 135 years. Iowa banks offer FDIC insurance and lend nearly $88 billion to help individuals, business owners and agriculture. Nearly 40,000 Iowans work at an Iowa bank, and bank employees volunteer more than 300,000 hours to support local communities each year. To learn more, visit www.iowabankers.com.