Michigan City, Indiana – Horizon has honored Advisors Jeff Gatton and Jennifer Johnson for The Robert C. Dabagia Leadership Award and Nancy Miller for The Burton B. Ruby Community Service Award.

Jeff Gatton, Vice President, District Manager has earned the Robert C. Dabagia Leadership Award for his commitment to customers and for his dedication as a leader within Horizon Bank.

Gatton’s contributions and leadership specifically shined during a recent acquisition and conversion of multiple branches, where he made a difference on several levels. While coordinating training and coaching of new branch advisors, he worked tirelessly to ensure cultural integration while going through his own training in his new role as District Manager. He worked side by side with his team not only as a new District Manager, but also wearing several hats–acting as a branch manager when needed, opening new accounts, dealing with conversion issues and processing teller transactions, interviewing, hiring and training.

“It is a great honor to be recognized with the Robert C. Dabagia Leadership award. The support of the Horizon management team and the great execution of our services by all members of the Northern Michigan District team is what has allowed me to achieve this honor. It is my job to set the direction and provide the tools necessary to succeed, but it is the execution of this wonderful team that actually makes it work.”

Jennifer Johnson, Vice President, Consumer Lending Manager was also presented the Robert C. Dabagia Leadership Award for her commitment to leading the indirect and dealer network teams to record origination levels while continuing to demonstrate a vision of Best in Class for the Consumer Lending Department.

“I am extremely honored to receive the Robert C. Dabagia Leadership award. I have the privilege of being surrounded by, and work next to, incredible people, I strive every day to lead with the intention to make a difference, be supportive, and encourage those on my team to be their best and dream big,” stated Johnson.

Johnson is a constant professional; no situation is too big or difficult for her. She lets others know where they stand and is proactive facing problems with staff or loan situations quickly and directly. She is an exceptional manager and team player working with several different departments throughout the Bank where she communicates, supports, and solves issues when needed to Underwriting, Processing, Collections, and Loan Servicing.

Another inspirational role model for co-workers, service organizations and community residents is Nancy Miller, Vice President, Private Banker. Miller was awarded the Burton B. Ruby Community Service Award for her steadfast commitment to community.

Miller serves various local non-profits with tireless energy. She has a true, giving heart and gives a helping hand whenever she can. Her past and current commitment to community involvement is long, diverse, and prestigious. Miller currently volunteers and serves on the Goodwill Industries of West Michigan Board. She has also served on many other non-profit boards for several years where she has volunteered, raised funds and helped coordinate auctions.

“It is a sincere privilege to be recognized with the Burton B. Ruby Community Service Award. I am fortunate to be a part of a company that encourages and supports volunteerism in our local communities. These community organizations provide essential services to those in need, and it is truly my pleasure to volunteer my time and talent. I’m grateful for the ongoing support of my co-workers, family, and friends, and to Horizon Bank for recognizing me with this award,” stated Miller.

About The Robert C. Dabagia Leadership Award

This award is presented to a Horizon Advisor  who affects positive change for customers, company and community, as exemplified by outstanding leadership, professionalism, collaboration and commitment to customers, and who is an active community volunteer.  Mr. Dabagia provided leadership, guidance and inspiration throughout his years, generously giving of his time and expertise to the Horizon Bank and the community.  In honor of his outstanding leadership and service, Horizon's Leadership Award has been named the Robert C. Dabagia Leadership Award.  

About The Burton B. Ruby Community Service Award

This award recognizes a Horizon Advisor who has significantly contributed to the communities they serve through active volunteerism, leadership and contributions. Burton “Bud” Ruby, for whom the award is named, had long been recognized for his outstanding activism in local and national concerns, including health care, education and commerce. He had received the human relation’s award by the B’nai B’rith and the State of Indiana’s highest civilian honor, The Sagamore of the Wabash Award.

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Contact:  Amy Phares
Public Relations Manager
Phone: (219) 874-9208