Meet the team at UBT’s new Columbus branch

We’re excited to welcome you to our brand-new full-service branch in Columbus — and even more excited to introduce the friendly faces who’ll be serving you. Whether you’re looking for personal banking, ag lending, or trust services, our team is here to help you bank better and feel good doing it.

At Union Bank & Trust, we believe banking should feel personal, supportive, and rooted in relationships. That’s why we’ve built a team that’s not only experienced but genuinely invested in the Columbus community.

Jon Rowe, Branch Manager

Passionate about community, Jon helped organize Grand Island’s 4th Street Festival and is known for his approachable leadership style. He’s excited to bring that same energy to Columbus, where he looks forward to getting more involved in the local community and making meaningful connections.

Nathan Jantzi, Vice President – Ag & Commercial Lending

Nathan has nearly two decades of agricultural and commercial lending experience and a deep connection to Nebraska’s farming communities. Growing up on a small farm near Wood River, Nathan knows firsthand the challenges and rewards of ag life. A graduate of both the Nebraska Bankers Association Agricultural Lending School and its advanced program, Nathan combines technical knowledge with a hands-on, personalized approach. Nathan’s passionate about helping producers and small businesses succeed.

Nathan has called Columbus home since 2010 and has been an active member of the Columbus Chamber Commodores since 2011. Nathan and his wife are proud to be part of the Columbus community, where they stay busy giving back and cheering on their kids at countless local events.

Miki Naylor, Loan Specialist

Miki has served as a Loan Specialist since 2023, focusing on relationship-building and customer service in agricultural lending. A longtime Columbus resident and former Central Community College student, she brings both professional expertise and a strong commitment to her community.

Passionate about service and guided by faith, family, and friendship, Miki finds joy in giving back and treasures time with her four grown children and six grandbabies. She has been a TeamMates mentor for 17 years and served on many local boards and committees, including Habitat for Humanity, the Columbus Morning Rotary Club, and the Columbus Area Chamber Agribusiness Committee. Whether helping customers or serving her community, Miki leads with heart and purpose.

Wade Shonka, Assistant Vice President – Ag Lending

Wade joined UBT in 2018 and serves as Assistant Vice President in Ag Lending. With a background in agricultural finance and firsthand experience as a farmer, he supports farming operations and commercial clients with practical insight and care.

Originally from Schuyler, Wade earned his degree in Ag Economics with a minor in Agronomy from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln and Northeast Community College. As an active participant in the Corn Growers Association, Platte Valley Cattlemen’s, 4-H, and FFA, Wade is passionate about agriculture and community. He brings a neighborly approach to banking, rooted in real-life experience and a genuine commitment to his customers.

Trust and Wealth Management Experts*

Our Columbus branch will also welcome regular visits from members of UBT’s experienced Wealth Management team — bringing trusted expertise and personalized service right to your community.

Leslie Gibbens, VP & Trust Services Advisor: A Certified Trust Fiduciary Advisor with 24 years at UBT, Leslie is committed to serving seniors and families with care and integrity. Her thoughtful approach helps clients make informed decisions with confidence.

Michael Henkenius, VP & Trust Officer: With a law degree and a strong sense of service, Michael brings clarity and insight to every client conversation. He’s known for helping people navigate complex decisions with ease and understanding.

Cheri Luff, VP & Trust Officer: Cheri’s decades of experience and genuine empathy make her a trusted resource for families during life’s pivotal moments. Her focus on building lasting relationships reflects UBT’s commitment to putting people first.

Whether you’re already part of the UBT family or just getting started, we can’t wait to serve you at our new Columbus branch, located at 1601 23rd St. Stop by, say hello, and experience feel good banking — right here at home.