ABOUT US
Discover our story, leadership, and mission to make a difference for you.
EVB: MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Since our founding in 1943, Elkhorn Valley Bank has been committed to more than just providing financial services—we’ve been dedicated to making a meaningful impact in our communities. From our humble beginnings in Hoskins, Nebraska, to our expansion across Northeast Nebraska and into South Dakota, our journey has always been guided by a simple yet profound principle: “That which is in the best interest of our customer is in the best interest of our bank.”
This philosophy drives us to go beyond banking to truly make a difference in the lives of our customers and neighbors. Whether offering innovative banking solutions, supporting local businesses, or investing in community initiatives, we take pride in being a locally-owned, independent bank that places people first. Our growth over the years is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering lasting relationships and building strong, vibrant communities.
At Elkhorn Valley Bank, making a difference means being more than a bank; it means being a trusted partner, a supportive neighbor, and a champion for the success of our local communities. Every step we take, every service we offer, and every decision we make should contribute to the greater good, ensuring our communities thrive. That’s what sets us apart—because at Elkhorn Valley Bank, “There is a Difference.”
Making a difference in the lives of
our customers, co-workers, and communities.
To be a values-based bank, enhancing lives
by providing exceptional service, products, and technology.
E – Excellence
A – Accountability
G – Gratitude
L – Leadership
E – Engagement
S – Service
1943: Commercial State Bank opens its doors in Hoskins, Nebraska, marking the beginning of a legacy.
1943
1990: The bank establishes its first loan production office in Norfolk, Nebraska, laying the groundwork for expansion.
1990
1993: Elkhorn Valley Bank is chartered as a full-service bank, ready to meet the community’s growing needs.
1993
1997: Commercial State Bank and Elkhorn Valley Bank merged to create Elkhorn Valley Bank & Trust.
1997
1997: A new headquarters is completed at 800 West Benjamin Avenue in Norfolk, Nebraska.
1997
2000: The Omaha Avenue branch opens, housing the Elkhorn Valley Trust department and an insurance agent.
2000
2004: A limited-service branch is opened in Pierce, Nebraska, expanding the bank’s reach.
2004
2005: A full-service branch at 2401 Taylor Avenue in Norfolk, Nebraska, opens to the public.
2005
2008: The bank opens a new branch inside HyVee West, providing additional convenience for customers.
2008
2012: A new full-service facility is constructed in Pierce, Nebraska.
2012
2015: Elkhorn Valley Bank acquires First National Bank of Wayne to better serve the residents of Wayne and its surrounding communities.
2015
2020: The Albion Loan Production Office is established, furthering the bank’s reach in Nebraska.
2020
2021: Elkhorn Valley Bank expands beyond state lines with a new branch in Yankton, South Dakota.
2021
2021: A new headquarters at 404 South 25th Street in Norfolk, Nebraska, opens, serving as a hub for banking, wealth management, and community events.
2021
Today: Elkhorn Valley Bank & Trust operates eight locations, offering a comprehensive range of financial services and products dedicated to the success of the communities it serves.
Today
OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
“At Elkhorn Valley Bank we really strive to have the size and capacity to take care of any customer’s needs but still give them that personalized, local service. Decisions aren’t made in a corporate headquarters hundreds of miles away, they are made right here and we think that is very important to our customers.”
AARON OTTEN
President & CEO
“We are not a numbers bank, we are a people bank. Everything we do is for the betterment of our employees and our customer base, but the personal feel and true commitment throughout the organization shows we believe in our communities, believe in our bank, and believe in the services we provide to our customers.”
CORBY SCHWEERS
Chief Lending Officer
“Elkhorn Valley Bank believes in giving back to the communities that have been so good to us. Whether that’s financial contributions back to our communities or serving through volunteerism, making a difference in the communities we serve is one of our most important missions.”
JARVIS OTTEN
Executive Vice President, Lending
“A community bank cares about the customers in a different way compared to a larger bank. Any solution we come up with is tailored to the individual and to what their needs are. We have a lot of flexibility because of our community bank structure.”
NICK CLEVELAND
Chief Operating Officer
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
Ag Update
Voted “Favorite” in Best Bank and Best Customer Service Categories
Independent Community Bankers Association
Recognized as a Top 20 Bank for Ag Lending
2022 | 2023 | 2024
94Rock | News Channel Nebraska
Voted “Best Bank” in the 2024 Best of Northeast Nebraska Voting
Bauer Financial
Proud to be rated a 5-Star bank