31 Dec 2024 Five-Oh-Ones to Watch 2025: Person of the Month – Tina Novak

“Throughout my career at First Community Bank, I have had the honor of receiving Employee of the Year, and I also serve on our Brand Council committee. My job allows me many opportunities to connect and network in our community, and because of that, I have received the Volunteer of the Year award through the Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce. I serve on the board of the White County Child Safety Center. I have to say, though, my greatest accomplishment is being called Mom.”

Hometown: I have been married to Glen and lived in Searcy for 29 years. We have two daughters, Olyvia and Harlee.

Career: My first day at First Community Bank was Sept. 28, 2015. It was one of the greatest days of my life! I am VP business development officer/CSR for the Searcy region. It has been the best job I’ve ever had, and I am blessed to work with the greatest people! 

Education: I am a 1992 graduate of Bakersfield, Mo. Bakersfield is a very small town in southern Missouri. After graduating from high school, I attended Arkansas State University (ASU) in Mountain Home (Baxter County) for two years before getting married in 1995 and moving to Searcy. I’ve had many opportunities to complete leadership programs and training, such as John Maxwell’s program. I’ve continued my education for business at ASU Beebe since I began working at First Community Bank.

Community activities: In my current role at First Community Bank, I have the privilege to be involved in public relations in our community. I serve on the board of some of our nonprofit organizations in Searcy, and it also gives me the ability to work alongside other leaders and serve on committees at the Chamber of Commerce. My family attends New Life Church in Searcy. We are all heavily involved in several different things. Specifically, I sing on the worship team, and Glen and I lead a life group.

You co-chair Leadership Searcy. How long have you been involved, and what is the group’s purpose? I have been involved with Leadership Searcy since I went through the program in 2016. The purpose and vision are to develop a network of great leaders and acquaint them with community needs, challenges and opportunities. We believe in the importance of relationship building, teamwork and collaboration. During our monthly sessions, we challenge participants to become involved with local issues and the process of decision making. We are working hard today to make a better tomorrow!

What is a hidden treasure in White County you’ve learned about through Leadership Searcy? Searcy is FULL of hidden treasures through all of our locally owned and operated businesses. We are gifted with some of the greatest leaders and most talented and creative artists, along with the best bakeries, specialty food trucks and boutiques. The hidden treasure is found in the hearts of everyone who calls Searcy home.