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April 14, 2025
To Our Valued Investors,
I am writing to share significant news regarding a leadership transition at Sonata Bank. The Board is pleased to announce that Wendell Bontrager has been named Sonata Bank’s new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding our founding CEO Dan Dellinger who is retiring. Wendell will champion the bank’s future-focused strategy during this period of tremendous momentum and growth.
Wendell, who formerly served as Sonata Bank’s President and Chief Lending Officer, has over 30 years of commercial banking experience, a proven track record of excellence and an ambitious approach to business. Wendell has been an effective leader within the company since its inception and has supported Dan and me in driving meaningful growth for Sonata Bank. The Board is confident that Wendell’s strategic vision and entrepreneurial spirit will strengthen the foundation we’ve built and propel the bank into its next chapter of innovation and progressive leadership.
Dan and I co-founded Sonata Bank with a shared passion for banking and a commitment to improving the lives of our customers, shareholders and associates. Dan has been instrumental in building Sonata Bank to its strong position of success, and the Board is deeply grateful for his leadership and service.
Recently recognized as Nashville’s fastest-growing bank by deposits by the FDIC, we look forward to Sonata Bank’s continued achievement with Wendell at the helm.
If you want to connect with Wendell, you can email him at wendell.bontrager@sonatabank.com or call at 260-705-1344.
With gratitude,
Farzin Ferdowsi
Chairman of the Board
Sonata Bank/Sonata Financial Holdings, Inc.