A Father’s Influence: How an LCNB Banker Helped Shape an NBA Career

LEBANON, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--This Father’s Day, LCNB National Bank, a Lebanon, Ohio-based bank owned by LCNB Corp. (Nasdaq: LCNB), is proud to share a story that reflects the lasting impact of fatherhood, strong community roots, and the power of giving back.

At the center of this story is Mark Kennard, an LCNB Regional Sales & Relationship Manager, father, and coach, whose influence helped guide his son, Luke Kennard, from a standout local athlete to a career in the NBA.

When reflecting on their relationship, Luke shared, “I wouldn’t be where I am today without my dad. He’s a leader you can rely on, a father, a coach, but above all, someone you trust every day. He pushes you, but he’s always there to guide you and help you make the right decisions.”

“At LCNB, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing Mark’s same commitment to our local communities and his principled, trustworthy leadership firsthand. As both a banker and a father, Mark Kennard has consistently demonstrated the values we hold close. Showing that growth takes time, trust, and a dedication to helping others succeed. Watching Luke’s journey from a standout high school athlete to playing in the NBA has been a powerful reminder of what can grow from strong local roots and meaningful support,” said LCNB’s Chief Executive Officer, Eric J. Meilstrup.

A 2015 graduate of Franklin High School in Franklin, Ohio, Luke earned numerous honors, including Ohio Gatorade Basketball Player of the Year in both his junior and senior seasons. He finished his high-school career with the second-most points in Ohio history and was selected as a McDonald’s All-American. Kennard played for two years at Duke University before becoming the 12^th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, beginning his professional career with the Detroit Pistons. He currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers.

But behind every milestone is a foundation built at home.

Mark reflected, “I always told him if you want to keep going, to get better and be the best you can be, I’ll do everything I can to help you get there. I just wanted to be the best dad I could be and support my kids.”

That same spirit still extends back into the community. Through his annual Luke Kennard Basketball Camp, young athletes from across the region can learn, grow, and dream bigger. Building the next generation in much the same way he was supported.

Commitment, everyday presence, encouragement, and belief, is what defines fatherhood. It’s also what makes stories like this so meaningful, because they’re not just about achievements, but about the people who made them possible. Luke and Mark’s story reflect something bigger than basketball. It’s about connection, community, and the shared belief that together, we can help each other go further together.

At LCNB, we’re proud to celebrate stories like this, because just like great fathers, strong communities are built on trust, guidance, and a legacy of lifting others up and investing in the next generation.

To watch the full video and learn more about their story, visit https://lcnbfurthertogether.com/kennard/.

About LCNB Corp.

LCNB Corp. is a financial holding company headquartered in Lebanon, Ohio. Through its subsidiary, LCNB National Bank (the “Bank”), it serves customers and communities in Southwest and South-Central Ohio. A financial institution with a long tradition for building strong relationships with customers and communities, the Bank offers convenient banking locations in Butler, Clermont, Clinton, Fayette, Franklin, Hamilton, Montgomery, Preble, Ross, and Warren Counties, Ohio. The Bank continually strives to exceed customer expectations and provides an array of services for all personal and business banking needs including checking, savings, online banking, personal lending, business lending, agricultural lending, business support, deposit and treasury, investment services, trust and IRAs and stock purchases. LCNB Corp. common shares are traded on the NASDAQ Capital Market Exchange® under the symbol “LCNB.”

Learn more about LCNB Corp. at www.lcnb.com.