Inspirational Actions From One Generation to the Next Christopher Cook, VP, Commercial Loan Officer The Honesdale National Bank
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orn and raised in Carbondale, PA, Christopher Cook firmly believes that the rearing provided by his parents put strong emphasis on the importance of hard work. To Cook, their actions showcased that the work you put in is a direct reflection of what you get out. For 40 years, his mother worked the night shift as a nurse and his father worked in a steel foundry in Clarks Summit. Cook recognized that his parents made many sacrifices to make sure that he and his brothers had everything they needed. Today his parents remain his biggest source of inspiration. “I believe in working hard to get things done,” Cook said. “My hope is that I can inspire some of the younger bankers in our organization to work hard for the company and by doing so they can have a long and successful career.” Cook began his career with The Honesdale National Bank in 2008 and currently serves as VP, Commercial Loan Officer. Throughout his tenure, he continues to serve as a mentor to other loan officers and a champion of HNB’s mission in his relationships with the bank’s customers and communities. “One of Chris’s greatest attributes is that he really cares about HNB. He is always willing to help other team members in whatever they need. He is a team player and someone I can count on to always make solid decisions,” said Ron Sebastianelli, SVP, Chief Lending Officer.
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Cook graduated from Penn State with a bachelor’s degree in finance. During the course of his banking career, he obtained further certifications from the Pennsylvania Bankers’ Association Banking School, Advanced School of Banking and Commercial Bankers School. Cook finds that community banking allows him to marry two of his passions. “I have always had an interest in finance and working with people. I work with customers daily to help them achieve their financial goals. It’s a win-win.” Helping customers establish and work toward their goals encourages Cook to continue to improve himself and his support of customers.
“My hope is that I can inspire some of the younger bankers in our organization to work hard for the company and ... have a long and successful career.” From the inspiring example of his parents to the satisfaction of witnessing his own community impact, Cook advises others to challenge themselves in their careers and communities. “Hard work pays off,” he said. “Don’t take shortcuts and always give 110%.” Cook currently lives in Jermyn, PA, with his wife, Stacey. He enjoys spending time with his daughter, Cortney Bodtmann, son-in-law Phil Bodtmann and grandchildren Nick and Rylie Bodtmann. The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna, and Luzerne Counties. The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions. HNB is a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender with NMLS ID # 446237. H June 2022
