Amy Kawahara Rhoads named 63rd Idaho Business Leader of the Year

Alpha Kappa Psi (Delta Upsilon chapter), the professional business fraternity at Idaho State University, will recognize Rhoads at their annual award dinner in Idaho State University’s Stephen Performing Arts Center on Thursday, March 9 at 6 p.m.

This award annually recognizes an Idaho business leader who has demonstrated outstanding business and professional ethics while contributing significant support to worthwhile community, civic and education activities. Awarded by Idaho State University Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Development Fraternity since 1959, previous honorees have included a congressman, former governors, entrepreneurs and leaders of some of Idaho’s largest companies. The recognition program is the longest-standing one of its kind in Idaho.

Rhoads began her career path in the banking industry over 40 years ago as a loan secretary. Unselfishly, Rhoads has served as Senior Vice President and Branch Administrator, and in 2015 was named President and CEO of Citizens Community Bank. 

 In June 1997, Rhoads helped start Citizens Community Bank, and was one of its three original employees when she was recruited by the board of the directors as the first branch administrator. After the first nine months in business Citizens Community Bank was profitable and has been ever since.

Rhoads has overseen the opening of six branches throughout Southeast Idaho, and has been instrumental to the growth of Citizens Community Bank that is now over $875 million in assets. Rhoads has expanded her leadership role beyond the walls of Citizens Community Bank, and found a passion for being an active member of the community, focused on making a difference in the lives of her neighbors and colleagues alike. Currently, she is chair for Bannock Development Corporation and the Pocatello Housing Authority. She is a member of Fort Hall Business Advisory, REDI, College of Business Leadership Committee, College of Eastern Idaho, and the Pocatello Chiefs. Last year, Rhoads coordinated the effort with ISU College of Business and ISU Foundation to create the first endowment that will fund financial literacy classes for current students. 

As a business leader, Rhoads emulates the “You Matter Most” employee culture. She embodies this mantra by taking time to get to know each of her employees personally. This is not just as simple as learning their names, but rather she goes out of her way to get to know them on a more personal level. For example, on hiring anniversaries, Rhoads brings a homemade dessert and words of congratulations to each of her 108 employees. 

Rhoads is a true example of the Alpha Kappa Psi values of brotherhood, knowledge, service, integrity, and unity. All are invited to spend an evening celebrating her accomplishments and contributions to our community. To support Rhoads and Alpha Kappa Psi you can buy tickets here.