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By M . Elyse Douglas
The Upland branch of Star Financial Bank will be closing its doors for the final time on June 9th . According to STAR Financial ’ s Director of Corporate and Community Engagement Melissa Schenkel , this decision was made due to a shift in the way in which STAR ’ s customers bank .
“ As is a trend with banks across the country , traffic in certain geographic locations isn ’ t enough to sustain specific branches ,” Schenkel said . “ We have invested heavily in our online and mobile app capabilities allowing customers to open an account , apply for a mortgage or loan or even deposit a check at their convenience via a computer or smart phone .”
While the physical location is closing , STAR still plans on keeping a presence in Upland . The video banking machine located outside
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“ Our roots in the Upland community run deep ,” Schenkel said . “ However , we have to do what is right for longterm sustainability .”
of the branch will continue to run , and STAR has no plans for removing the ATM found in the Hodson Dining Commons on Taylor ’ s campus .
Despite STAR ’ s continued presence in these alternative forms , not having a physical branch in Upland will be a difference most Upland residents will notice . Upland has had a branch since the founding of STAR . A 2013 Business People article celebrating STAR ’ s 70th year of business recounted that founding :
“ In 1943 , the Upland , Ind ., branch of Citizens State Bank was in danger of closing
. Partners in the Marion Trucking Company feared the bank ’ s death would spell disaster for the community . Despite knowing little about banking , the trucking partners were confident that they could save the town from financial ruin by buying the bank and creating a customer-service based institution .”
The decision to leave Upland was not easy for STAR and was the result of multiple meetings . “ Our roots in the Upland community run deep ,” Schenkel said . “ However , we have to do what is right for long-term sustainability .”
Today , more than 20
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branches of STAR Financial cover northeastern and central Indiana , including branches in Gas City and multiple in Marion . Those STAR account-holders who still wish to find a physical location to bank at will have |
no trouble doing so .
The Upland branch currently employs two people , and both employees will be given other opportunities within STAR , according to Schenkel .
Other than keeping the video
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banking machine , STAR currently has no plans for the building located on Main Street . If any member of the community has questions or is interested in the building , they should call STAR for further information . |