First State Bank President receives Award

Lisa and Mike Downey with Dr. Eileen Ely  

President of First State Bank, Mike Downey of Scottsbluff was awarded the Distinguished Community College Alumni award at the Nebraska Community College Association Annual Meeting on Tuesday, November 3.  

Downey attended WNCC on a tennis scholarship from 1978-1980 and earned an Associate of Science Degree (with honors). He continued his education at Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kans., where he completed his bachelor’s degree in Business Finance (Magna Cum Laude) in 1982. Downey also received his graduate degree from Southern Methodist University in 1991.  

In addition to working in the banking industry, Downey has taught Personal Finance courses for Rockwell International and for College for the Mainland, a community college in Houston, Texas. Downey serves as the President and member of First State Bank’s Board of Directors in Scottsbluff. He is active in many professional and civic organizations in the Scottsbluff are, including the YMCA, Rotary Club, Riverside Soccer Association, Crime Stoppers, United Way, and the Nebraska Bankers Association.

Downey believes community colleges play a vital role in preparing individuals for professional and vocational growth. “It is a great stepping-stone for so many people who may not be able or ready to make the move to a four-year college,” said Downey. “I know it gave me a great start on my college career. Small class sizes and excellent access to my professors gave me the best possible chance for academic success.”

Downey and his wife Lisa, who was also a student and adjunct professor at WNCC, have four children, Megan, Kate, David and Sara.