August 08, 2024 - Park Rapids, MN – Northwoods Bank is proud to announce that Mark Hewitt, a distinguished leader in the banking sector and Chairman of the Board at Northwoods Bank of Minnesota, was honored with the prestigious Legacy Award at this year’s BankIn Minnesota Annual Convention. This accolade recognizes Mark’s exceptional contributions to the industry, 50 years of dedication to Community Banking, and his lasting impact on his community.
Mark Hewitt, whose career spans over five decades, has been a pillar of innovation and integrity in the community banking world. His leadership at Northwoods Bank has not only driven financial success but also fostered community growth through various philanthropic initiatives. Mark’s dedication to ethical banking practices and his visionary approach to financial services have set a benchmark for excellence.
“Mark Hewitt embodies the values of leadership, commitment, and excellence that the Legacy Award represents,” said Theresa Canfield, Chief Financial Officer “His influence on our industry and his tireless efforts to give back to the community make him a deserving recipient of this honor.”
Under Mark’s leadership, Northwoods Bank expanded its reach and enhanced its service offerings, making banking more accessible and efficient for thousands of customers.
Beyond his professional achievements, Mark is deeply involved in charitable endeavors, supporting numerous causes ranging from financial literacy programs to local economic development projects to being a champion for children. Mark partners with his wife Peg for much of his service and philanthropy. In 2002, the couple established the Hewitt Family Charitable Fund.
Recognition that Mark has received for his philanthropic efforts include:
• Winning the HN Bishop Award for Community Service and the Jaycees Distinguished Service Award in 1986.
• Being recognized in 1987 as one of the 10 Outstanding Young Minnesotans by the Minnesota Jaycees.
• Earning the Hewitt Family Youth Service Award in 2014, alongside his wife Peg. This award honors the Hewitt family's long history of philanthropy and community service, especially in areas benefiting young people.
• Being named "Circle of Vision Community Champions" by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation in 2005, recognizing lifetime contributions of $500,000 or more.
• Establishing the Hewitt Family Charitable Fund in 2002 with Peg, which annually supports local projects and activities with significant financial contributions.
Mark set the standard and now, Northwoods Bank is renowned for its generosity and commitment to supporting and giving back to the communities it serves.
“Through substantial charitable contributions, Mark has supported numerous local initiatives, from education and child welfare to health and wellness” said Jennifer Bateman, Realtor and Board Member “He is a big picture thinker and someone I would call ‘an idea guy.’ Mark's heart is truly connected to the community and the people who live here.”
The Legacy Award was presented to Mark Hewitt during the BankIn Minnesota Annual Convention on July 31st, 2024 at the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center where industry leaders, peers, and community banking members gathered for the Legacy Awards Luncheon to celebrate the recipients’ remarkable careers and contributions.
“Having dedicated five decades to a career in banking, I am honored to be recognized for my tenure as the owner and CEO/Chairman of Northwoods Bank. Throughout my journey, I’ve navigated both prosperous times and challenging periods, including agricultural crises, economic recessions, and fluctuating interest rates ranging from zero to 21%. The growth of our organization, from just three employees to over 40, is a testament to the exceptional staff who have contributed to our success. Our unwavering commitment to serving customers and benefiting the community remains strong, now carried forward by the next generation of Hewitts leading the bank." said Mark Hewitt.
Mark D. Hewitt began his banking career in 1974 after graduating from St. Olaf College.
He initially worked for the First Bank System, starting in the consumer loan department in the Twin Cities, and eventually became a commercial lender in the Hibbing area.
In 1978, Mark purchased Farmers State Bank of Dorset – now Northwoods Bank – from his father Gordon, making him the 4th generation of Hewitts to manage the bank. When he first took over the bank, total assets were under $7 million, and there were 3 employees. Today, total assets are $140 million, and there are 34 full time employees.
Mark’s career highlights consist of:
• Named Banker of the Year by the Northwestern Financial Review.
• Helping to develop FutureBank in his first round as chairman of ICBM – now BankIn Minnesota– in 1995.
• Served as chairman for ICBM a 2nd time in 2007.
• Received the David R. Konshok Professional Leadership Award in 2007.
Outside of banking, Mark is an avid SCUBA diver and has his own YouTube channel where he posts videos of his dives.
He also enjoys training for and competing in triathlons, fishing, or using the flight simulator.
He loves to travel, especially to national and state parks. More recently, his favorite activity has been spending time with his three granddaughters.
About Northwoods Bank of Minnesota
Northwoods Bank of Minnesota has an interesting history. Chartered over a century ago in the small town of Dorset MN, the bank successfully navigated through the depths of the depression, the expansion years of the 1980’s and 1990’s, a charter re-location and name change, and most recently, the “great recession”. Throughout the years, the bank has grown and prospered under the ownership and management of five generations of the Hewitt family. Scott Hewitt is the current CEO, continuing the family’s legacy of dedication and leadership.
For more information about Northwoods Bank, please visit www.NorthwoodsBank.com
Media Contact:
Tiffany Turner
Northwoods Bank of Minnesota
Phone: 218-366-4848
Website: www.northwoodsbank.com
Contact Information
Tiffany Turner
Northwoods Bank Of Minnesota
1200 1st street east
1200 1st street east
56470
Voice: 2183664848
