Kalamazoo, MI – June 12, 2026 – First National Bank of Michigan (FNBM) proudly announces the promotions of the Executive and Senior Leaders within the Bank. Daniel E. Bitzer, newly titled Executive Chairman of First National Bank of Michigan, proudly passes the title of President to Jefra A. Groendyk, Senior Lender. Senior Leadership Matthew J. Morgan and Richard M. Jackson have been promoted to Executive Vice President as have Market Leaders Patricia L. Barnas (Lansing), Michael R. Hollander (Grand Rapids), Christopher J. Mars (Kalamazoo), Gregory C. Accardo (Holland) and Samuel J. Drelles (Northern Michigan).

Promotions to the title of Senior Vice President were awarded to Sara E. Amy, Residential and Consumer Lending, Kelsey L. Bailey, Strategic Operations Manager, Emily L. Newman, Loan Documentation Manager, Nickie L. Peters, Facilities Manager & Security Officer, Amy L. Vervaras, Regional Branch Manager for Grand Rapids, Holland, and Lansing, Joseph E. Ludy Regional Branch Manager for Kalamazoo and Portage, and Kevin D. Waldie, Risk Manager.

“In today’s evolving workforce, transition can create challenges. However, when talent circulates within an organization and every member of the team rises to the occasion, attention must be paid to acknowledge the hard work and dedication which are driving the Bank forward,” commented Daniel E. Bitzer, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman of the Board. “We celebrated an outstanding year in 2025 and with the team we have in place, we have even higher hopes for where 2026 can take us.”

First National Bank of Michigan is proud to recognize these well-deserved promotions for an exceptional team that strives for excellence and consistently delivers that same standard to its clients.

About First National Bank of Michigan
First National Bank of Michigan is a locally owned, full-service community bank dedicated to providing superior financial services to individuals and businesses. Founded on the principles of personalized service and community engagement, FNBM continues to be a trusted partner in the communities it serves.

Posted in In the News