Governor appoints Thull to oversee state financial institutions

To oversee the stability of Kansas’ state-chartered financial institutions, Governor Kathleen Sebelius has appointed Tom Thull to serve as the state’s banking commissioner.

“We all depend on our banks to be reliable, stable and accessible.  Tom has experience in the industry and a demonstrated commitment to public service.  His leadership will help Kansas banks and the customers they serve,” said Sebelius.

John Thomas Thull, Newton, graduated from Kansas State University in 1975 with a degree in agriculture education. Thull’s career in the financial services industry began as a loan specialist.  He later served as vice-president of Midland National Bank and Central Bank & Trust before taking on his current position as president of Central National Bank in Newton.

Thull’s professional experience is matched by his dedication to public service, where after eight years as mayor of North Newton, Thull was elected to two terms in the Kansas House of Representatives. Previous leadership roles include president of the Harvey County Bankers Association, director of the Newton Chamber of Commerce, president of the Harvey County Economic Development Council and service on the Bethel College Advisory Board.

The Office of the State Banking Commissioner regulates all state-chartered banks and trust companies, savings and loan companies, mortgage businesses, and money transmitters. These banks and other entities have total assets of approximately $29 billion.  The commissioner’s primary objective is to ensure the safety and soundness of state-chartered financial institutions, thereby safeguarding depositors’ funds and maintaining public confidence.

Pending confirmation by the Senate, Thull will replace Clancy Norris, who retired from his post as the banking commissioner on March 31, 2006.

# # #