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Aug 2, 2023

National Bankers Association Statement on Passing of Past President Kim Saunders

It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart; we join in mourning the passing of Ms. Kim D. Saunders, immediate past President and CEO of the National Bankers Association.Saunders previously served on the Association’s Board of Directors and was appointed its President and CEO in October 2018, making history as the second woman to hold the position since its founding in 1927.


With over 32 years of financial services industry experience, she strived to advance minority banks and communities most overlooked as a bank CEO, a council member to federal bank regulators, and senior advisor to the Milken Institute, among other notable accomplishments. Through her valorous leadership, she testified to Congress, built relationships that the Association still utilizes, and spearheaded initiatives to support minority banks. During her tenure, it was her dream to create a fund to provide capital to minority banks, and she saw that dream become a reality by co-founding the MDI Keeper’s Fund L.P.


Ms. Kim D. Saunders will truly be missed, and we send our heartfelt condolences to her husband, Barry, and her family, whom she loved and cherished. Her commitment to financial inclusion and legacy will continue reverberating for generations.

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