Sponsor Spotlight: Banner Bank

Investing in rural communities

The Banner Bank Track debuted this spring, marking the first sponsor-named facility on campus. 

For years, Banner Bank has appeared on signs and sponsor lists throughout EOU athletics, but as of this spring the company has taken it to the next level. The company agreed to a $100,000 sponsorship spread out over the next 10 years. 

Banner Bank Senior Vice President Ryan Hildebrandt said the new partnership is mutually beneficial.

“We’ve been in discussion with the team at Eastern for more than a year, developing this sponsorship — it is a great win-win for both organizations,” Hildebrandt said.

Founded in Walla Walla 130 years ago, Banner Bank has grown to be one of the largest banks headquartered in the Pacific Northwest. 

“We’re active in the communities we serve because connecting — with our clients, one another and the community — is a core value at Banner Bank,” Hildebrandt said. “Being an active corporate citizen is one way we can support where we all live and work.”

He said projects like this one help rural areas in the state thrive. 

“We are proud to serve Eastern Oregon,” Hildebrandt said. “We understand what makes this region special, and we’re delighted to continue to offer capital to help this region expand and grow.”  

Additional sponsorships and corporate donations support a range of student activities at EOU. Contact University Advancement to learn more about these and other opportunities to invest in Oregon’s Rural University.