Old Point President Named Community Banker of the Year

HAMPTON, Va., Nov. 4, 2016

Steve Yeakel, President & CEO of the VACB said, "Rob's life story is inspiring.  He started in the mail room at the bank, returned to the bank after military service to become the bank's first information technology officer, and worked his way to leadership, where he now leads the bank very successfully in challenging times."  According to Yeakel, nominees were evaluated based on their leadership and community involvement, as well as for their industry advocacy and contributions to the vitality of their bank.

Yeakel also had high praise for Shuford's advocacy efforts.  "Community banks enable economic growth in our economy, especially for small businesses, but they are restrained by burdensome regulations and an un-level playing field.  Rob goes well beyond understanding that.  He engages policymakers and regulators on a regular basis to tell his bank's story, and to ask for their help in allowing them to play a greater role in job creation and building the local economy."

Shuford was presented with the award at the Chairman's Banquet during VACB's 39^th annual convention in October.  VACB Chairman Mike Ewing explained the origin of the awards. "VACB is committed to do more to identify and celebrate the people who make community banking what it is – an invaluable element of the fabric of the communities they serve.  This year, we heard story after story of people going above and beyond the call, to help, to educate, to guide, to comfort their fellow citizens, to make life better, for a single customer or a whole community."

"We're pleased for Rob, his family and his team at Old Point National Bank, that his colleagues across the Commonwealth are able to express our appreciation for him in this way," said Ewing.

About Robert F. Shuford, Jr.

Rob, a native of Hampton Virginia, grew up immersed in the Old Point culture.  Starting in the mailroom and working on special projects during his summer breaks from Duke University, Rob laid the groundwork for a career in banking that would begin more than decade later.  After graduating from Duke University with a degree in Biomedical Engineering, Rob was commissioned into the US Navy in 1986 and in 1990 returned to a civilian career path with a focus on operations and efficiency.  In 1998, with a growing family of five, the Shufords returned home to Hampton and Rob accepted a position with Old Point as Vice President of Technology.  In 2003 he was promoted to Chief Operating Officer, directing the strategic plan for the organization and managing all retail, operations, and marketing functions within the bank.