Columbia Bank Hires Valli Millard to Lead Agriculture Banking Team in Eastern Washington and Idaho (Photo)Columbia Bank has hired Valli Millard, SVP of Commercial Banking, to lead the bank’s growing agriculture banking team in Eastern Washington and Idaho.
Millard brings more than 30 years of experience in commercial banking and proven expertise supporting a diverse range of agriculture enterprises across the region. Prior to joining Columbia Bank, she served in commercial and agriculture focused leadership roles at several financial institutions including First Interstate Bank, Banner Bank, and US Bank.
Millard’s addition strengthens Columbia Bank's longstanding commitment to supporting local farmers and further expands its expertise in agriculture banking. Since launching the team nearly 30 years ago, Columbia Bank has become one of the leading agriculture lenders in the U.S., with a focus on customized financing for crops, livestock and agribusiness.
To learn more about Columbia Bank's Agriculture Banking team and financial solutions, please visit https:/www.columbiabank.com/commercial/industries/agriculture/
TACOMA, Wash., April 22, 2026 — Columbia Bank, a subsidiary of Columbia Banking System (Nasdaq: COLB), today announced it has been recognized by Crisil Coalition Greenwich with two regional Best Bank Awards for excellence in middle market banking. More than 500 banks worldwide were evaluated across small business and middle market categories, with only 47 banks receiving honors.
Crisil Coalition Greenwich recognized Columbia Bank in the following middle market banking categories for the U.S. West region:
Source: Coalition Greenwich Voice of Client - 2025 U.S. Commercial Banking Study
Best Bank Awards are based on extensive client feedback. The 2026 middle market recognitions draw from more than 11,000 interviews with U.S.-based businesses generating $10 million to $500 million in annual sales.
“Columbia Bank’s recognition by Crisil Coalition Greenwich as a 2026 Best Bank is especially meaningful since it’s the result of customer testimonials. It reflects the priority we place on supporting middle market companies, as well as the dedication and expertise our bankers bring to the table every day for our customers,” said Tory Nixon, Columbia Bank President. “It’s a privilege to support so many outstanding middle market enterprises across the West, and we will continue to earn their trust and confidence.”
Additional 2026 Accolades
The Coalition Greenwich awards add to a growing list of honors Columbia Bank has received this year, including:
About Columbia Bank
Columbia Bank is the largest bank headquartered in the Northwest and one of the largest banks headquartered in the West with offices in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington. Columbia Bank combines the resources, sophistication, and expertise of a national bank with a commitment to deliver superior, personalized service. The bank supports consumers and businesses through a full suite of services, including retail and commercial banking, Small Business Administration lending, institutional and corporate banking, and equipment leasing. Columbia Bank customers also have access to comprehensive investment and wealth management expertise as well as healthcare and private banking through Columbia Wealth Management. Columbia Bank is a subsidiary of Tacoma, Washington-based Columbia Banking System, Inc. (Nasdaq: COLB).
BOISE, ID — April 14, 2026 — The Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) invites media to attend an adaptive triathlon training event this Saturday, featuring athletes who are blind or visually impaired training alongside volunteer guides.
EVENT DETAILS
What: Tandem Biking Training Event
When: Saturday, April 18 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: Old Timer’s Shelter, Anne Morrison Park, 1130 W Royal Blvd, Boise, ID 83706
On-site identifiers: NWABA-branded trailer and van will be located in the parking lot near the Boise Parks & Recreation office on W. Royal Blvd.
MEDIA ATTENDANCE OPTIONS (Please coordinate in advance)
Preferred Option (End of Event):
Arrive between 12:30 and 12:45 PM
Capture athletes returning from a ride
Interview athletes and the NWABA representative following the event
Alternate Option (Beginning of Event):
To coordinate coverage or confirm attendance, please contact Haley Ellison, NWABA Public Relations at 503-919-0696 or Hellison@NWABA.org