2024 News and Information

Honesdale, PA – Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Jessica Spare has joined HNB as VP, Commercial Loan Officer.

In making the statement, Sheridan noted, “We are excited to bring Jessica’s longstanding expertise to HNB” He continued, “Her loyalty to our area elevates our commitment to providing great service to our customers and uplifting future opportunities in our community.”

Spare is a graduate of Hazelton Area High School and received a Bachelor of Science degree in business management from Pennsylvania State University.

Currently residing in Drums, PA, she started her 27-year career in the financial industry at a local financial institution as a Teller. From there she progressed to CSR, Credit Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Small Business Lender, and eventually Commercial Loan Officer. She will continue at HNB as VP, Commercial Loan Officer.

In this role, she is responsible for the development and management of commercial loan customers to establish long-term banking relationships in the Luzerne County market.

In describing her recent move to HNB, Spare said, “I am excited to be a part of the HNB family! It is clear to see that everyone works together as a team and supports each other to achieve success!”

Spare is a member of the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce and the Hazleton Area High School Baseball Booster Club. She currently serves as Chair of a Women in Business Planning sub-committee along with a number of other leadership roles in the community.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and volunteering in the community.

Honesdale, PA – Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank announced Jessica Gay as Branch Manager of the Bank’s Hamlin Office.

In making the statement, Sheridan noted, “Jess has been a thought leader as she has grown through our management trainee program.” He continued, “Her leadership skills will be providing a great foundation to connect our team and provide great service to our customers at our Hamlin Office.”

Gay is a graduate of Honesdale High School and received an associate degree from Lackawanna College.

Currently residing in Beach Lake, PA, she started her career at a local pharmacy as a pharmacy sales associate. She then started her now five-year banking career as a teller at another local financial institution. She was then promoted to Universal Banker in a few short years. In 2022, she accepted a position at HNB as a Management Trainee and is now promoted to Branch Manager.

In this role, she is responsible for promoting and developing new customer relationships, managing new employees and customer expectations, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Hamlin Office.

In describing her time with HNB, Gay said, “Working at The Honesdale National Bank has given me so many opportunities to grow not only professionally, but also personally. The knowledge I have been able to gain from my time at HNB has been unmatched by anything I have ever experienced before.” She continued, “I am honored to be part of such a phenomenal community bank, and I can’t wait to see what this next chapter of my career holds.”

Gay is the secretary for The Beach Lake Fire Company’s Auxiliary. She is also a member of the Wayne County Business & Professional Women's Club.

Honesdale, PA – The Honesdale National Bank has recently made a $5,000 contribution to the Susquehanna Community School District via Commonwealth Charitable Management, Inc. through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program. The funds will go towards financial education programs in the school district.

HNB President & CEO, Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., stated, “We are happy to support The Susquehanna Community School District as they enhance their educational programs.” He continued, “The best way to get our future generations prepared for the next step in life, is providing access to critical financial lessons and resources.”

The mission of the Susquehanna Community School District is to nurture an educational environment that will develop life-long learners who will be successful participants in an ever-changing world. Commonwealth Charitable Management, Inc. has been administering EITC since 2003. They have over a decade of experience and have provided millions of dollars in funding to support thousands of students.

The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna, and Luzerne Counties.  The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions. HNB is a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender with NMLS ID # 446237.

Pictured (L to R): Tina Verrastro, Commercial Loan Portfolio Manager, Ted Radu, Assistant Trust Officer, along with students and staff of the Susquehanna Community School District.

The Honesdale National Bank (HNB) is partnering with a local artist to contribute to the ongoing beautification of downtown Honesdale. Committed to elevating the downtown’s offerings and experience, a vibrant mural will grace the Church Street façade of the Bank’s flagship office at 733 Main Street.

"I firmly believe that the best investments we make are in the communities we serve," stated Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO at HNB. He continued, “Together, we have the power to shape our communities and create experiences that truly make our area a great place to live, work, and play."

At the forefront of this endeavor is a thoughtful design that seamlessly melds a contemporary depiction of Honesdale's rich heritage. Each element of the beautification project pays homage to the town's storied past while embracing a forward-looking approach to urban development.

The project was realized in response to Honesdale’s designation as a Keystone’s Communities Main Street through the State of Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). As the town evolves and creates paths for generations to come, the rejuvenation of Main Street serves as a testament to the Bank’s unwavering commitment to development and collaboration.

The artist behind this spirited project, locally renowned muralist Jeff George, stated, “"It’s always an honor when I’m asked to help with the Honesdale streetscape. Helping The Honesdale National Bank share some of their heritage with our community is a privilege.”

The project is tentatively scheduled to begin in May 2024. The impact of this collaboration extends far beyond mere aesthetics. By enhancing the curb appeal of its Main Street Office, the project is meant to inspire continued investment in cultivating Honesdale’s interests in serving as a premier destination and point of pride for residents.

“We see the mural as a visualization and call-to-action for all local businesses, community partners, and residents to contribute to our town’s story and have appreciation for all it affords us,” says Sheridan.

HNB has been a sponsor of other local mural projects in Forest City made possible through The Honesdale National Bank Foundation.

Photo caption: The Church Street facade of The Honesdale National Bank's Office at 733 Main Street will be the canvas for a new mural set to begin in May 2024.

Honesdale, PA – Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Sarah O’Hora has been promoted to Assistant Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer.

In making the statement, Sheridan noted, “Sarah’s recognized journey at HNB exemplifies dedication and perseverance as she started from a part-time role and ascended to her new pivotal role as AVP.” He continued, “This promotion is a result of her loyalty to our customers and identification of opportunities for the Bank to further serve our communities through lending.”

O’Hora is a graduate of Greencastle-Antrim High School and received a Bachelor of Science Degree (Cum Laude) from Millersville University in 2011. She also attended the PA Bankers School of Banking in 2015, Leadership Northern Poconos Class of 2016, ABA Bank Marketing School Program in 2016, and PA Bankers School of Commercial Lending in 2023.

Currently residing in Lake Ariel, PA, she started her 12-year career in the financial industry with HNB. Previous positions included Teller, Customer Service Representative, Marketing Assistant, Marketing and Communications Specialist, Commercial Loan Portfolio Manager, Commercial Loan Officer I, Commercial Loan Officer II, and she will continue her career as AVP, Commercial Loan Officer.

In this role, she is responsible for developing and managing commercial loan relationships, collecting, and analyzing financial information, and negotiating terms for small business and other commercial loan applicants.

In describing her time with HNB, O’Hora said, “In the past 12 years, I have gotten to know many of the hardworking individuals who make our communities thrive. I enjoy learning about their businesses and helping them reach their goals and continue to grow.” She continued, “HNB was founded to support the local communities and we are continuing to do just that.”

Sarah attends Wallenpaupack Church and serves as Worship Director. She also enjoys spending time with her family, golfing, pheasant hunting, target shooting, ATV rides, and walks in the woods with their family dog, Nelli.