Todd McDonald, president of Liberty Bank and Trust in New Orleans, has been named chairman of the National Bankers Association, succeeding Robert E. James II of Carver Financial Corporation.
The appointment continues a family tradition — both men’s fathers previously served as chairmen of the organization, which represents minority-owned banks across the country.
McDonald, who has served on the association’s board, outlined several priorities for his term including strategic growth, talent development, deposit strengthening and technology upgrades for member banks.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to Robert E. James II for his exemplary leadership over the past four years,” McDonald said. “His work has left an indelible mark on the NBA, and I am honored to continue the legacy of service that he and our fathers have set forth.”
At a recent NBA Strategic Planning Retreat, the organization focused on ways to strengthen minority depository institutions. Jaimmé A. Collins, General Counsel and executive vice president at Liberty Bank and Trust, discussed aligning technology with business strategies and developing partnerships to secure corporate and federal deposits.
The National Bankers Association works to protect and expand minority-owned banks that serve diverse and historically underserved communities.