The FNB Community Bank and First Vandalia Corp. have pledged a Vandal Level donation of $125,000 over 5 years to Vandalia Community High School’s Forging Our Future campaign. This campaign is raising money to improve and build a number of the school’s athletic facilities.
What began as a vision by two community-minded leaders has now become a permanent symbol of partnership and progress. The idea for FNB Community Bank to invest in Vandalia Community High School through the Forging Our Future initiative was fostered by Joe Schaal, Senior Lending Officer, Vice President of FNB, and Vandalia School Board Member, and Christian DiBerardino, Marketing Director at FNB. Together, they developed and presented the concept to the First Vandalia Corp. Board of Directors, where it received full approval.
“Recognizing that athletics makes a tangible difference in the educational commitment and success of our students, the Board of Directors of the FNB Community Bank deemed that supporting the Forging the Future initiative was clearly aligned with our mission. A willing and dependable partner to the communities it serves, FNB can be counted on to step up to support worthy endeavors, we’ve been doing so for over 160 years. On behalf of the entire board, I congratulate the leaders of this effort. We are honored to be among the first to make a major contribution,” commented Ann M. Schwarm, chairman, FNB Board of Directors.
As a result of their efforts and the bank’s commitment to community investment, FNB Community Bank has secured a number of donor entitlements, including the permanent naming rights to the high school’s concession stand — a testament to the bank’s dedication to supporting students, athletics, and community pride for years to come.
“This partnership goes beyond a name on a building,” said Steve Henna, CEO & President of The FNB Community Bank. “It represents our unwavering belief in the students, staff, and families that make up our community. We are committed to investing in their success today and well into the future.”
Located at the heart of school events and community gatherings, the concession stand serves as more than just a place for snacks — it’s a hub for connection. By supporting its growth and upkeep, FNB Community Bank ensures it remains a welcoming space for generations to come.
Vandalia C.U.S.D. #203 Superintendent, Dr. Jennifer Garrison and Vandalia C.U.S.D. #203 Athletic Director, Jason Clay added, “We are deeply grateful to the FNB Community Bank Board of Directors for their generous $125,000 donation to Forging our Future. Their commitment to our students will have a lasting impact on our community. This partnership is a testament to what can be achieved when local institutions come together to invest in our future” (Garrison, 2025). “Thank you to the FNB Board of Directors for seeing the vision and lasting community impact of the Forging our Future initiative. We are humbled and incredibly grateful for the Vandal Level donation of $125,000 and the impact the FNB Community Bank continues to have on our area” (Clay, 2025).
FNB’s donation to the Forging Our Future initiative exemplifies the bank’s mission to enrich the lives of those it serves by promoting students, student athletics, involvement, and long-lasting relationships within the community.
Chartered in 1865, The FNB Community Bank is the sixth oldest bank in Illinois. In June 2019, the bank converted to a state charter and changed its name from the First National Bank to The FNB Community Bank. Along with its main office on Gallatin Street and the Banker Street branch in Vandalia, FNB has locations in Greenville, Ramsey, Patoka and Mulberry Grove
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