168 Years Strong: Building the Future by Honoring Our Past

In this episode of The Vault, we’re celebrating FNBO’s 168th anniversary with a conversation between host Amelis Long and David Cota, Executive Vice President of Banking and a 26-year FNBO veteran. Together, they reflect on FNBO’s history and the moments that have shaped us into who we are today.

The episode explores our beginnings in frontier Omaha, where the Kountze Brothers founded FNBO in 1857, and traces our evolution into one of the nation’s earliest nationally chartered banks and a six-generation family enterprise. Amelis and David discuss key innovations on FNBO’s history—from pioneering women’s banking services in the early 1900s to becoming an early credit card issuer in the 1950s—and the belief that each generation must reinvent us to ensure our longevity.

Looking ahead, the conversation turns to how we’re carrying that mindset forward through digital innovation, community partnerships, and a culture of constantly raising the bar as we enter our 169th year serving communities across nine Midwestern states.

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00:00 Introduction & FNBO's Historical Overview
00:41 How did FNBO get started 168 years ago in Omaha?
02:20 Origins of FNBO: From 1857 to National Charter
06:22 Innovations & Milestones in FNBO's History
10:51 Family Leadership & Legacy
13:50 Modern Achievements & Technology Integration
19:12 Commitment to Excellence & Future Plans
21:10 Conclusion & Next Steps