On Tuesday, February 20, Kate Key and Simmons Bank of White House were recognized as the Horizon Award Winner at the White House Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Community Award Luncheon, a prestigious award reserved for a business that goes above and beyond for its clientele, community, and employees.

“I had no idea that anyone had nominated us, and I certainly wasn’t prepared to hear my name or Simmons name,” says Kate Key, Branch Manager.

The award was given by the 2023 Horizon Award recipients, Karl and Roni Hawes, owners of Deja Moo in White House. In their presentation, they read a nomination submitted by a local resident that described Kate as someone who has played an integral role in shaping Simmons Bank into what it is today. 

The nomination read, “We are truly fortunate to have Kate in our community! She is always the first to step up and volunteer for various initiatives, ranging from business events and networking referrals to community outreach programs. Kate's presence in the midst of heartwarming moments is undeniable. She consistently devotes her time and resources to uplift our community, and her genuine smile is a constant reminder of her caring nature. Kate is always checking in on others and doing what she can to help when she can. Finding someone that is so selfless, giving, and joyful is truly a blessing.”

As Kate heard her name called, she was shocked and thankful. 

“I was overwhelmed with gratitude. Gratitude for whomever nominated us. Gratitude for the White House community. Gratitude for being placed in a position to positively impact the people of my community on a scale greater than I could have ever imagined possible,” she recalls. 

Undoubtedly, Kate Key and Simmons Bank are worthy of the award. Above providing excellent customer service and top of the line banking products, they have made a huge impact in the White House community since they opened their doors in 2015. 

From hosting pet adoption events, supporting local non-profits financially and with their volunteer time, and sponsoring many fun community events through the White House Area Chamber, they stay hands-on year round. 

“We will also be looking for new opportunities to volunteer in the community,” says Kate when asked about the bank’s 2024 plans. 

“Last year we helped Temple (Baptist Church) with their Youth Program Area, participated in the Clean up White House Day, donated bags to Jumbled Dreams, and helped collect donations for various organizations and needs throughout the community,” she continues. 

So why does a small branch with five employees commit so much of their time to the community? Kate answers simply: Because it’s the right thing to do.

“I believe that we are put in this world to serve others to the best of our abilities. As individuals, my team looks for opportunities to help others every day in both their personal and professional lives. We are blessed that Simmons Bank gives us a larger platform to invest in our community than any of us could on our own,” she says. 

Please join us in thanking and congratulating Kate and the entire branch of Simmons Bank in White House for serving the community and winning the 2024 Horizon Award with the White House Area Chamber of Commerce.