A limited time CD special (4.84% APY*) to promote the “four” generations of family management since 18“84”, promotions with local businesses and the radio station, a ribbon cutting, plus snacks and conversation will highlight a grand re-opening special planned to introduce a revamped Central National Bank facility to the Hays community on Friday, August 28th.
Proud to Serve Hays
Central National Bank is honored to serve the Hays community. The bank’s Hays team is committed to customers and friends, and the bank has invested in their location to continue serving the community for years to come. The bank remains at the same physical address, but the property and facility have been completely upgraded and remodeled, with convenience and customer ease being the primary drivers of the updates.
"We’ll soon be celebrating ten years here in Hays, and that’s a testament to the strength of this community and the relationships we've been fortunate to build. We are excited about the future and remain committed to delivering exceptional service, local decision-making, and financial solutions that help our customers, businesses, and communities succeed," said Wes Clark, President, Central National Bank – Hays.
Clark leads a lending team of three in the Hays community. His 33 years in banking experience with an emphasis on agricultural lending is particularly suited to the community’s proud ag tradition. He serves alongside Scott Schneider, who has 16 years of ag lending experience. Rounding out the team is Geovanni Morales Guerra, with four years of banking experience and expertise in both lending and commercial banking relationships.
The Hays location recently underwent renovations to their location at 2604 General Hays Road. In addition to renovating the exterior of the building, the parking lot was resurfaced, landscaping has been added and a state-of-the-art Interactive Teller Machine (ITM) was installed on the South end of the building for customer convenience.
“We’ve installed an ITM to extend a convenient banking option for customers in the area,” said Clark. “The ITM allows customers to conduct full transactions with one of our Personal Bankers during extended hours of service, past 5 o’clock and into the weekends. These bankers are located in Topeka, Kansas and are an extension of our Hays team.”
The ITM functions as a Smart ATM when virtual tellers are not available, which allows customers to withdraw funds and as well as make deposits around the clock.
The bank will host an open house on Friday, August 28th from 9:00am to 3:00pm and invites the local community to celebrate the completion of construction. A ribbon cutting with the Chamber will be held at 10:30am. The bank has also partnered with Eagle Radio to sponsor their Can-Am UTV giveaway this year. Residents can register to win the Can-Am UTV on site. The drawing is made possible in conjunction with A&A Coors, Advantage Glass Plus, Commercial Sign Company, and Briney Motorsports.
In addition to the radio station giveaway, the bank is running a certificate of deposit special beginning on Friday, August 28th and available through Thursday, September 3rd. The limited-time CD rate, 4.84% APY*, serves as a thank you to the community of Hays. Complete details about the special may be found on the bank’s website at: https://centralnational.com/communities/hays.asp
Dedication to Community
What makes Central National Bank special is the ability to combine local decision-making with meaningful relationships. At Central, customers have access to experienced bankers who understand the local economy and are committed to helping individuals and businesses succeed. What sets them apart is a long, rich history of family leadership and dedication to five core values:
We build our business for the long term.
We lead with integrity and stability.
We empower our team.
We adapt in an ever-changing world.
We invest our time and resources.
These values have stood the test of time, 142 years – to be exact. In fact, in addition to serving farmers, ranchers and business owners, the Hays team has spent time volunteering for the annual Hays City Little Shoot Out contest, the Hays Chamber of Commerce, the Red Cross, Women Who Lead, Holy Cross Charities, Ellis County Historical Society (SEC committee), as well as local schools and churches in the communities surrounding Hays.
Built on a Legacy of Trust
While the Hays team reflects Central National Bank's commitment to serving local communities, that commitment is rooted in a much larger story, growing from a single location in Kansas to serving communities across the region. The same relationship-based approach that guides the Hays branch today has been a defining part of the bank for more than 140 years.
Central National Bank's story began in 1884 when businessman Sumner Pierce organized the Central Kansas Bank in Junction City, Kansas. At a time when security and financial stability were vital concerns, the bank opened with modern safeguards designed to protect customer deposits and build confidence within the community. Safeguards like a fire-proof vault, a burglar-proof safe and a time-lock to secure deposits.
In 1889, the institution became Central National Bank when leadership chose to convert to a national charter, providing customers with the additional safeguards and capital requirements associated with national banks. That decision reflected a commitment to stability and customer protection that remains a cornerstone of the bank today.
Edward W. Rolfs came to Central National Bank in 1915 and began an association with the bank that continues today with the fourth generation of leadership. E.W. Rolfs served as bank president from July 15, 1959, until January of 1967 when his son, E.J. Rolfs, took over as president. E.C. Rolfs, son of E.J., assumed the responsibility of President and CEO in 1993 until 2016 when niece Sara Girard accepted the role of President.
Strength & Stability
Throughout its history, Central National Bank demonstrated resilience during some of the nation's most challenging economic periods. During the Great Depression, when over 8,000 banks across the country failed, Central National Bank withstood widespread panic over bank failure. Franklin D. Roosevelt declared a bank holiday in March of 1933 and closed all banks. This shut down withdrawals across the nation and allowed audits of institutions. Central National Bank proved solvent and was the only bank in town permitted to reopen the following week. That strength and stewardship helped establish a reputation for reliability that continues today; and also established a conservative and prudent management philosophy that has led to 140+ years of successful banking supporting customers in the Midwest.
Growing With the Communities We Serve
From a single location in Junction City, Central National Bank has grown into one of the region's strongest community banks, serving customers in 22 communities across Kansas and Nebraska. While the bank has expanded its footprint and services, its mission remains unchanged: providing local expertise, personalized solutions, and relationship-based banking.
For agriculture producers, Central National Bank has long been a trusted partner. Agriculture was the foundation of the local economy when the bank was founded, and that commitment continues today through experienced agricultural lending and financial solutions tailored to farmers and ranchers.
The bank has also embraced innovation throughout its history, from introducing computerized processing in the 1960s to offering online banking, mobile banking, mobile deposit, Interactive Teller Machines, and dozens of ATMs across the region. These advancements allow customers to enjoy modern convenience while still receiving the personalized service of a community bank.
Looking Ahead
While much has changed since 1884, one thing has remained constant: Central National Bank's commitment to serving customers and strengthening communities. As the bank celebrates an updated facility and sincere commitment to Hays, they are grateful for their customers and friends.
The Hays team looks forward to continuing the tradition of providing trusted advice, innovative solutions, and community-focused banking for generations to come.
To learn more about products and services, visit the Central National Bank branch located at 2604 General Hays Road, Suite B, right here in Hays, Kansas or explore the resources available at CentralNational.com.
Central National Bank: Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender
*Annual percentage yield accurate as of 08/28/2026. Offer is only valid between 08/28/2026 and 09/03/2026 during Grand Reopening week at 2604 General Hays Road, Suite B, Hays, KS 67601. Rate is based on specified term and required $5,000 minimum, and not to exceed $25,000 maximum deposit. Penalties apply for early withdrawals; fees may reduce earnings. Offer good for initial term only; automatic renewal will be at rate in effect at time of renewal. One certificate per customer. Not available for public funds.
Investment Products are: NOT A DEPOSIT | NOT FDIC-INSURED | NOT GUARANTEED BY THE BANK | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY | SUBJECT TO RISK, MAY LOSE VALUE.