Russellville Grad Makes Waves in the Banking Community

 
Russellville native, Rodney O. Parks, was elected to be the new Chairmen of the Arkansas State Banking Board, on Jan. 18, 2012. 
 
The Arkansas State Bank Department and the State Banking Board work hand in hand on new charters, authorization of branches among many other items pertaining to banking companies. “This board makes sure everything is sound but we have a great state commissioner, Candace Franks, of the Arkansas State Bank Department,” commented Parks.  
 
In 2009, Parks was appointed by Governor Beebe to serve on the Arkansas State Banking Board. The terms served on the board last a total of 5 years making his term end in 2013.
 
“The board gives me a chance to serve the banking community of Arkansas and keep good relationships that I have built over the years,” said Parks of his time on the board thus far. 
 
Parks has served on the board during a critical turning point for the U.S economy. According to Parks, the banks of Arkansas have remained steadfast through the hard economic woes of this country. Many banks around the country have faced closing their doors but Parks says that he hasn’t seen this same troubles for Arkansas. “Watching how our banks performed during the recession, they have been resilient,” said Parks of his proudest moment on the board. 
 
During his term as Chairmen Parks hopes, “to have the banks continue to thrive and make sure the Arkansas economy thrives as well.” 
 
Parks has had 20 years of experience in both commercial and investment banking. For the past four years he has worked as the Director of Development for the Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas. Parks is also the Founder of Parks Professional Group, a public speaking and management consulting firm. 
 
Parks is a 1987 graduate of Russellville High School and a 1991 graduate of Arkansas Tech University where he earned a degree in economics and finance. He is the son of Glenn and Jean Parks of Russellville.