Bob Burns

Bob Burns’ meandering career path led him to the military, education and finally banking in 1979.

Burns was talked in to joining the executive team at Farmers Bank & Trust of Magnolia, an institution partially owned by his wife’s family. The pitch was to learn about banking and take over as president and CEO, which he did in 1983.

Under his leadership, the sleepy institution has be-come the leading lender in Columbia and neighboring Ouachita County.

Farmers Bank & Trust had total loans of $2 million when Burns began working there. Today, total loans are pegged at $290 million.

The bank produced a tidy 17.6 percent return for its 63 shareholders during 2004.

“If you’re willing to put enough time and effort into anything, you can make it a success,” the 60-year-old executive said.

Burns majored in history and political science with a minor in business at what is now Henderson State University at Arkadelphia. After graduation, the Hope native served in Vietnam as a company commander with the 4th Infantry Division from 1966-68.

His combat leadership resulted in decorations including the Bronze Star and Cross of Gallantry. Burns spent seven years on active duty with the Army and 23 years in the Army Reserve, retiring as a lieutenant colonel.

From the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, he earned a master’s degree in education in 1974 and later his doctorate in education administration in 1984.

Before joining the bank, Burns worked two years with the Arkansas School Board Association and three as superintendent of Mineral Springs School District (Howard County).

His community service includes past chairman of the Southern Arkansas University Board of Trustees and Rural Development Authority and work with the Southwest Arkansas Water District and Arkansas Good Roads Council.

He also has served as past president of the Arkansas Bankers Association and a member of the governor’s task force to revise the state banking code.