FDIC-Insured - Backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government
*$2,500 minimum balance required to open the account. A penalty may be imposed for an early withdrawal. Fees may reduce earnings on account.
Offer is subject to change without notice and may be withdrawn at any time. Accurate as of August 26, 2025.
FDIC-Insured - Backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government
Here at First Federal of Van Wert, we thrive when our customers and communities thrive, so taking care of our customers and looking out for the best interest of our community is ingrained in the way we conduct our business!
When doing business with First Federal, be assured that you are working with those that live and work in the same community as you do. Go local and bank locally with us! The money invested in your local community bank will be reinvested in ways that drive the local economy, such as in the form of loans to local residents who want to buy a home. By driving local economies and creating local jobs, community banks are an integral part of our financial system and play a key role in our nation’s economic recovery.
First Federal takes pride in great customer service and with reinvesting in Van Wert, OH and surrounding communities!
The Board of Directors of First Federal of Van Wert, OH has announced the promotion of Allison Hauter to New Accounts Specialist. Allison began her career at First Federal in January of 2024, where she worked as a Customer Service Representative.
“Allison has displayed tremendous customer service to our customers. She is knowledgeable and makes sure our customers have the best options when opening accounts,” says Brian Renner, President/CEO. “Allison is a great example of the customer service we provide to our customers. We pride ourselves in this customer service and helping our customers thrive.”
Hauter is a graduate of Van Wert High School and Purdue Fort Wayne, where she graduated with a degree in Mathematics. She enjoys the small-town community, going to concerts, and spending time with friends and family. “I enjoy helping customers and getting to know everyone, so I’m excited to take on this new role to serve our community and build relationships with customers,” says Hauter.
First Federal of Van Wert is a locally owned and operated institution, serving the Van Wert community since 1893. As an independent community bank, First Federal takes great pride in supporting the Van Wert community. First Federal now has two locations, at 679 Fox Road and 820 N. Washington Street.
Posted: 8/26/2005
Allison Hauter,
New Accounts Specialist
First Federal of Van Wert is excited to announce the opening of their second location on Monday, August 18th, 2025. The branch is located at 820 N. Washington Street and will offer the same banking products and services that are offered at First Federal’s Fox Road location, plus some new and exciting technology to better serve customers. “The employees and Board are thrilled with the branch and what it will provide for our community,” says Brian Renner, President/CEO at First Federal. “We are excited for this chapter in the long history of First Federal.”
First Federal will hold a private preview for invited guests on Friday, August 15th. There will be an open house for all community members on Saturday, August 16th from 1:00pm – 4:00pm. With normal business hours and available for your banking needs, grand opening day will be held Monday, August 18, 2025, with light refreshments provided by Convoy Road Coffee Roasters.
“As a local community bank, we believe in the future of Van Wert,” says Renner. “By opening a second branch location, we are showing our commitment to the community that we want to see Van Wert thrive.”
“We are excited to continue to invest in Van Wert,” Administrative Officer, Terra Bonifas, added. “The Van Wert community remains our priority as we continue to grow and offer an easier and more convenient banking experience for our customers.”
First Federal was first organized on January 9th, 1893. In 1997, First Federal moved to the 679 Fox Road location. In 2021, the institution added on to their Fox Road branch while also remodeling the interior to better assist customers. The 820 N. Washington branch is the latest commitment the institution is making to take care of the growing community’s banking needs.
First Federal of Van Wert, is an Equal Housing Lender & Member FDIC.
POSTED: 08/07/2025
Voted Van Wert’s Best Bank/Credit Union & Best Place to Work in Van Wert 2025 by Times Bulletin Media Readers!
Thank you for making us your #1 choice!
The Board of Directors of First Federal of Van Wert, OH has announced the promotion of Amanda Schulte to Controller.
Schulte is a mother of three who balances family life with a passion for community service. She volunteers at Lifehouse in Waumbaland and is the secretary of the Van Wert Rotary Club. Schulte also serves on the Rotary Foundation, Rotary Board, and has most recently joined the Van Wert Chamber Leadership Committee. Her warmth, reliability, and commitment to helping others shine through in everything she does.
Schulte has been with First Federal for 2 years and has previously served as Staff Accountant. “Amanda is a dedicated employee, and she exemplifies the determination of our whole team. We are excited for Amanda and her future at First Federal.” says Brian Renner, President & CEO.
Invested in Van Wert. Committed to You.
First Federal of Van Wert, located at 679 Fox Road, is an Equal Housing Lender & Member FDIC.
Join us in congratulating Amanada as she begins her new role!
Posted: 06/11/2025
Amanda Schulte,
Controller
The Board of Directors of First Federal of Van Wert, OH has announced the promotion of Carly Rollins to Customer Service Manager.
Rollins, daughter to Chuck and Jen Rollins, graduated VWHS in 2021. After high school, Carly ventured into the world of customer service working part-time at Olympic Lanes, Rocky Top, and Brewed Expressions, all at once! Her enthusiasm for work remains strong as she continues to work at Rocky Top, officiates for OHSAA volleyball, USA volleyball, and owns her own photography business. Outside of work, you can find Carly enjoying her quiet country home with her two dogs.
Looking forward to playing a bigger role at First Federal, Carly is eager to explore more opportunities for involvement within our community. In her 2.5 years as a Customer Service Representative, she has learned that there is always an opportunity to learn and improve from her peers. She loves getting to work with our team every day and looks forward to making each day fun! Her favorite part about working at First Federal is getting to know our customers and creating relationships with each and every person.
“We are excited for Carly and her promotion! She has been essential in leading the customer service team and we look forward to seeing her skills continue to develop.” says Brian Renner, President & CEO.
Invested in Van Wert. Committed to You.
First Federal of Van Wert, located at 679 Fox Rd., is an Equal Housing Lender & Member FDIC.
Join us in congratulating Carly as she begins her new role!
Posted: 05/14/2025
Carly Rollins,
Customer Service Manager
The Board of Directors of First Federal of Van Wert, OH has announced the promotion of Stephanie Phillips to Branch Manager. Phillips began her career at First Federal in June 2021 as a Loan Processor, and she was promoted to Commercial Relationship Manager in 2023.
Phillips is a graduate of Lincolnview High School and the Ohio State University Lima campus. Stephanie and her husband, Justin, reside in rural Van Wert along with their two children.
Phillips is active in the community as she is a member of the Van Wert Service Club, Young Professionals club, Main Street Van Wert, and she is the Van Wert City Council Clerk. She also leads the Cougar Leaders Leadership program and assists with Career Connections.
“We are excited for Stephanie and this promotion. She has been instrumental in developing our commercial loan program and we look forward to her leading our new branch,” says Brian Renner, President & CEO. “I’m ecstatic for the opening of the second location to continue helping and serving our growing community,” says Phillips.
First Federal of Van Wert is a locally owned and operated institution and has been serving the Van Wert community since 1893. Our second location at 820 N. Washington Street is set to open this summer. As a local community bank, First Federal takes great pride in supporting the Van Wert community.
Join us in congratulating Stephanie as she begins her new role!
Posted: 03/07/2025
Stephanie Phillips,
Branch Manager
NMLS #1888107
The Van Wert Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Dinner and Awards last Wednesday at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds Junior Fair Building. Attendees enjoyed a thrilling night of video horseracing while enjoying a delicious dinner, drinks, and recognition of some area businesses.
Brian Renner, President and CEO of First Federal Van Wert received the 2025 Van Wert Chamber of Commerce Ray Miller Award, which recognizes a local resident who demonstrates a strong commitment to the community through volunteer work, participation in civic organizations including the Chamber, and outstanding service to the Van Wert area.
POSTED: 02/05/25
Pictured above are Mark Verville, Brian Renner and Seth Baker.
The Business Development Corporation of Van Wert (BDC) announced that First Federal of Van Wert has made a significant investment in the community by donating to the Accelerate Van Wert 3.0 capital campaign.
“First Federal believes in helping Van Wert succeed,” said Brian Renner, president of First Federal of Van Wert. “We also believe that Van Wert has a bright future because of the past efforts of the Business Development Corporation. The BDC has accomplished many things within its first two capital campaigns. We look forward to seeing what they can achieve with their next campaign. First Federal believes in Van Wert and the BDC.”
The BDC’s Accelerate Van Wert 3.0 campaign aims to raise $1.5 million to support various initiatives, including business attraction and retention, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements. This investment from First Federal of Van Wert will help the BDC continue to drive economic growth and create jobs in Van Wert County.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support of First Federal,” said John White, BDC capital campaign manager. “Their commitment to our community will help us achieve our goals and build a stronger Van Wert.”
For more information about the Accelerate Van Wert 3.0 campaign or to donate, visit www.bdcvw.com
POSTED: 11/19/24 via VW Independent
https://thevwindependent.com/news/2024/11/19/first-federal-donates-to-bdc-campaign/
Thad Eikenbary, vice president of Commercial Lending; Suzi Grimes, chief financial officer; Adam Ries, vice president of Lending; Andy Czajkowski, BDC president; Brian Renner, president of First Federal of Van Wert; John White, BDC capital campaign manager; and Jon Tomlinson, BDC Board member.
First Federal of Van Wert continues to earn a Superior 5-Star rating from Bauer Financial Inc. of Coral Gables, Florida, the nation’s leading bank rating and research firm. Bauer Financial Inc. has been reporting on and analyzing the performance of U.S. banks and credit unions since 1983.
A 5-Star rating signifies that First Federal is one of the strongest banks in the nation. First Federal is proud of this continued achievement providing security, service and strength. Our staff at First Federal is what continues to drive this achievement, earning the trust and respect of the Van Wert County community.
To earn the Superior 5-Star rating, First Federal must excel in areas of capital, asset quality, profitability and much more. First Federal has earned this 5-Star Superior rating for the latest 105 consecutive quarters. Established in 1893, First Federal has been serving its local communities for 131 years.
Posted 7/02/2024
The votes are in… First Federal is the winner of the “Best Bank” Award for the Times Bulletin Readers Choice Awards 2024! Thank you to the Van Wert community for your support, and votes, we appreciate you!
Posted 6/24/2024
The Board of Directors of First Federal of Van Wert has announced the promotions of Diana Cearns, Lisa Lawson, Terra Bonifas, and Thad Eikenbary.
“We believe a key to our success are the talented people that work here.” says Brian Renner, President/CEO of First Federal. “We’re proud to announce these promotions, as these four individuals exemplify the dedication and service to not only First Federal, but our customers and our community.”
Diana Cearns was promoted to Vice President of Operations. She also continues to serve as the BSA Officer. Diana joined First Federal in 2011 and has over 30 years of banking experience. She is a graduate of Van Wert High School and received a bachelor’s degree in finance and accounting from The Ohio State University. Diana is a member of the Van Wert Optimist Club and Calvary Evangelical Church. She has also been involved in various community activities including Relay for Life. Diana and her husband, Paul, reside in rural Convoy and have two children, Courtney, and Cameron.
Lisa Lawson was promoted to Vice President of Customer Experience. Lisa joined First Federal in 2013 and has over 35 years of banking experience. Lisa is a member of St. Mary’s of the Assumption Catholic Church and serves on the board of Crisis Care. She is also involved in various community activities including United Way Day of Caring. Lisa and her husband, Bill, reside in Van Wert and are the parents of Megan, Holly, and Abby.
Terra Bonifas was promoted to Administrative Officer. Terra began her career with First Federal in 2020 and has 10 years of banking experience. She is a graduate of Lincolnview High School and Ohio University. She serves as the board secretary for the YWCA, volunteers for the Chamber of Commerce Leadership council, and is the Treasurer of the Van Wert Rotary Club. She also volunteers for Career Connections and serves as a mentor for the Van Wert County Foundation Learn and Return program. Terra and her husband, Kirk, are the parents of two sons, Brooks, and Madden.
Thad Eikenbary was promoted to Vice President of Commercial Lending. Thad joined First Federal in 2021 after a lengthy career at Central Mutual Insurance. He is a graduate of Van Wert High School and Ohio Northern University. Thad has served on many community boards, and he is the current Van Wert City Council President. In addition, he also serves on the boards of the Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) and Youth for Christ. Thad and his wife, Laura, reside in Van Wert and are the parents of Jacey, Lauren, and Carter.
Posted 4/16/2024
Clockwise from top left: Diana Cearns, Lisa Lawson, Thad Eikenbary and Terra Bonifas
The Van Wert Chamber of Commerce was honored to recognize First Federal of Van Wert with the Van Wert Chamber of Commerce Milestone Award. During 2023, First Federal hit the incredible 130-year mark, celebrating a monumental business anniversary. First Federal continues to contribute to the economic success of the community.
Posted 4/09/2024
From left, Thad Eikenbary; Lisa Lawson; & Brian Renner, President/CEO representing First Federal; & Mark Verville, Van Wert Chamber, President/CEO.
The Van Wert Chamber of Commerce recently held its annual dinner. The annual awards program recognizes area businesses and individuals for their accomplishments and contributions to the Van Wert area. First Federal of Van Wert, recognized for community leadership and partnerships with many community non-profit organizations, received the Chamber’s Crystal Image Award. It was accepted by First Federal President & CEO, Brian Renner. Many other staff representing First Federal was also at the event to share in the event.
Posted 2/17/2024
First Federal of Van Wert is proud to announce the launch of a second location in Van Wert. The branch will be located at 820 North Washington Street and will provide our customers and community with increased convenience and accessibility. “The Board of Directors are excited to bring an additional location to better serve the community,” says Pat Jackson, Chairperson. “It reinforces the commitment to our current customers and the desire to earn new customers.”
This significant investment, coupled with an evolving marketplace, has positioned First Federal to be the premier community bank in Van Wert County. “It’s an exciting opportunity for First Federal and the Van Wert community. We dedicated many hours of research, and we listened to our customers. There’s a demand for a locally owned and operated bank to help Van Wert continue to prosper,” says Brian Renner, President and CEO. “First Federal is dedicated to our core belief to help the community thrive. We’re demonstrating our commitment to Van Wert by building this second location.”
The branch will be a fully functioning banking facility with state-of-the-art equipment. “As we’ve done with our Fox Road location, the new branch will be designed towards helping our customers with all of their banking needs,” says Renner. “We’ll have modern banking conveniences in addition to the standard banking products and outstanding customer service.”
“We like to think that our actions confirm our commitment to the Van Wert community,” says Thad Eikenbary, Commercial Loan Officer. “To First Federal, commitment means engagement, promise and pledge. Those are exactly the actions we are taking by adding this branch location.” First Federal was first organized in 1893 and located in downtown Van Wert. In 1997, First Federal moved to its current location at 679 Fox Road. In 2021, the bank renovated the Fox Road building, which included a building addition and modernizing the current facility. “As we see the needs in the area continue to grow and evolve, we are growing as well. With an added location, we will be able to give the Van Wert community more access to meeting their financial needs,” says Suzie Grimes, Chief Financial Officer. “Our team at First Federal will continue to be dedicated to helping our customers and making them our top priority.”
“There is momentum in the county with new industry investing in Van Wert and the potential for more to come. The Van Wert Forward downtown project will add to the development,” says Renner. “We believe in Van Wert, and we believe opening a second location shows our commitment to this community.”
Posted 2/16/2024
