Civista Bank marks 140 years of banking
SANDUSKY • Civista Bank is proud to announce its 140th anniversary, a significant milestone that celebrates over a century of dedication to banking excellence, the bank that has a Shelby office, said this week.
Established in 1884, Civista Bank has grown from a small local bank in Sandusky, Ohio into a trusted financial institution serving communities throughout Ohio, Southeastern Indiana, and Northern
Kentucky, an April 1 news release stated.
Dennis Shaffer, president and chief executive officer of Civista Bank, reflects on this landmark anniversary: “This anniversary is not just a look back at our rich history but a celebration of our ongoing commitment to excellence, progress, and the strength that will drive our future growth. “The teamwork, loyalty, and community support that have been pivotal to our achievements
inspire us. We’re looking forward to what the future holds and remain committed to the principles that have been the cornerstone of Civista for over a century,” he said.
Bank’s history
Civista Bank’s resilience and adaptability have been evident throughout its history, from navigating the economic challenges of the Great Depression and the Great Recession to embracing technological advancements and expanding its services.
These achievements underscore the bank’s commitment to disciplined financial practices, customer care, and community engagement, the release stated.
Founded in 1884, the bank has experienced significant growth, including several strategic mergers and acquisitions that broadened its reach and services through the 1990s and 2000s.
In 2015, the bank underwent a strategic rebrand from Citizens Bank to Civista Bank in order to differentiate itself from the other 316 banks in the United States bearing Citizens in their title. Civista is a blend of “civic,” denoting community, and “vista,” signifying view, thereby encapsulating the bank’s dedication to community service and customer-centric focus. From 2015 to 2022, Civista not only extended its reach through recent acquisitions, but enriched its product and service offerings, including diversifying its revenue
stream into business leasing with the purchase of Vision Financial Group in late 2022.
Looking forward
“As Civista Bank celebrates this historic 140th anniversary, it reaffirms its promise to adapt, innovate, and serve with the same dedication that has defined its past,” a statement said. “Civista’s enduring legacy, built on trust, excellence, and deep community ties, sets the stage for a future where the bank remains a trusted financial partner for the individuals, families, and businesses within the communities it serves.”