At Northwest Bank, community engagement is not a side initiative; it is central to how the bank operates. In Ames, that commitment is reflected through consistent leadership, meaningful volunteerism, and an intentional investment in people and places. Honored as the 2025 Business of the Year, Northwest Bank continues to stand out as a trusted financial institution deeply rooted in community stewardship.
As one of Iowa’s largest family-owned banks, Northwest Bank brings together financial strength and local decision-making. Under the leadership of Regional President Doug Ragaller, the Ames team is actively engaged throughout the region, serving on nonprofit boards, supporting community organizations, and participating in initiatives that enhance quality of life and economic vitality.
“Being part of Ames means more than doing business here,” Ragaller says. “It means showing up, building relationships, and investing in the organizations and people who make this community strong.”
Ragaller’s service on the Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Story County is one example of that commitment in action. By supporting programs that provide safe, enriching environments for youth, his involvement helps strengthen families today while preparing the next generation for future success.
That same sense of responsibility is shared by Tim Neubauer, Vice President and Ag/Commercial Banker at Northwest Bank. Neubauer serves on the AREA Chamber of Commerce Board, where he helps guide efforts that support local businesses, workforce development, and regional collaboration. His service reflects a deep understanding of the interconnectedness between a strong business climate and a thriving community.
Beyond economic development, Neubauer is also committed to youth and character development. He serves on the board of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and volunteers his time as a youth sports coach for football and basketball. Through coaching, he mentors young people at formative stages of life; instilling teamwork, discipline, and confidence both on and off the field. His involvement highlights how leadership at Northwest Bank often extends into everyday moments that shape families and neighborhoods.
A focus on developing future leaders is also evident in the work of Nate Kuhn, Ag/Commercial Banker and past recipient of the AREA Young Professionals 4 Under 40 award. Kuhn has played a key role in launching the AREA Young Professionals mentorship program, creating meaningful connections between emerging professionals and established leaders. His leadership helps strengthen Ames’ talent pipeline while encouraging long-term community investment. Through additional involvement in placemaking efforts in Campustown and service on local advisory councils, Kuhn continues to translate ideas into visible community impact.
Northwest Bank’s commitment to place and creativity is further reflected through the work of Joni Kellen, CFP®, Wealth Advisor and recipient of The Ames Foundation Volunteer of the Year Award. As the driving force behind Ames Murals: An Open Air Gallery, Kellen has led efforts to bring vibrant public art to life across the community—coordinating fundraising, partnerships, and artists to transform buildings into shared civic assets. Her leadership has enhanced Ames’ visual landscape while fostering pride, storytelling, and connection.
Together, Ragaller, Neubauer, Kuhn, and Kellen exemplify a culture at Northwest Bank that encourages employees to lead beyond their job titles. Their collective involvement underscores the bank’s belief that strong communities are built through sustained engagement, service, and personal investment.
In addition to its community leadership, Northwest Bank offers a comprehensive range of financial services, including personal and business banking, agricultural and commercial lending, mortgage services, treasury management, and wealth management. With a relationship-driven and market centric approach, Northwest Bank serves as a long-term partner for individuals, families, farmers, and businesses alike.
That combination of financial expertise and genuine community involvement continues to define Northwest Bank’s presence in Ames, making a lasting impact today while helping shape a strong future for the region.