GSBC is proud to announce that Christie Huber Obenauer, CEO and president of Union State Bank of Hazen in Hazen, N.D., has been named Chair Elect of the GSBC Board of Trustees. Huber Obenauer will bring a generational commitment to community banking, deep industry insight and a strong sense of service to the board’s leadership.

Huber Obenauer represents the fourth generation to lead Union State Bank, a more than century-old community institution with $224 million in assets and four locations in Mercer County, N.D. With a career spanning both regional and community banking, she brings a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing today’s banking leaders.

“Christie brings positive energy and a sense of optimism to every room she walks into,” stated GSBC President & CEO Michael Stevens. “She believes in community banking and the mission of GSBC. Christie will be a powerful addition to our executive committee.”

Huber Obenauer began her career with Norwest Bank’s Management Training Program in Fargo, N.D. and continued with the company’s business banking division in Bismarck before taking on roles in private banking in Boise, Idaho. Since returning to her hometown of Hazen in 2002, she has led Union State Bank with a focus on community development, innovation and continuity.

An active leader beyond her institution, Huber Obenauer currently serves on numerous boards in the banking industry, including the Bank of North Dakota Advisory Board and the American Bankers Association Board of Directors. She is involved in several community organizations in her market where she gets an opportunity to give back and keep her community vibrant and growing. Her commitment to service and sustainable rural economies has earned her a respected voice in the region and among her banking peers nationwide.

As chair elect, Huber Obenauer is poised to help guide GSBC’s long-term vision and strategic initiatives at a time when community banks are adapting to a rapidly changing environment. Her appointment reflects GSBC’s continued commitment to relevant, forward-thinking leadership rooted in the values of community banking.

Huber Obenauer will assume the role of GSBC Chair in 2026, succeeding Lance White, president & CEO of Bank of the Flint Hills in Wamego, Kan., who currently serves as chair of GSBC Board of Trustees.