The following is a press release from Spirit Bank.
TULSA, Okla. – Mvskoke citizen Nikita Thompson, SpiritBank Bank Secrecy Act Officer, AVP of Tulsa, Oklahoma has been named to serve a three-year term on the Board of Directors of the Oklahoma Bankers Association (OBA). The OBA Board of Directors plays a vital role in shaping the future of banking in Oklahoma, with representatives elected from across six geographic groups in the state. Thompson has been named to represent Group 6, which includes the middle one-third of banks by deposit size in that region.
“Nikita’s recent recognition as an Emerging Leader by the American Bankers Association is a reflection of her talent and dedication,” said Rick Harper, CEO of SpiritBank. “We’re proud to see her stepping into broader leadership roles that will benefit not only our bank, but the banking industry and communities across Oklahoma.”
With over 15 years of experience in the banking industry, Thompson specializes in regulatory compliance and community development. As SpiritBank’s Bank Secrecy Act Officer, she leads efforts to ensure accountability and adherence to federal banking regulations. Her career began at a Minority Depository Institution, followed by a progression of roles in compliance, lending, and retail banking.
In 2024, Thompson was nationally recognized by the American Bankers Association as a recipient of its Emerging Leader Award, a prestigious honor that highlights rising leaders in the banking industry who exemplify service, integrity, and innovation. “Nikita’s dual recognition—by both the American Bankers Association and the Oklahoma Bankers Association—speaks volumes about her influence in elevating compliance standards and driving strategic progress.” said Sherry Persley, Chief Compliance Officer, SVP at SpiritBank.
Thompson is also deeply committed to community involvement. She serves as a Math Mentor for the Tulsa Regional STEM Alliance and volunteers as a grant reviewer for the City of Tulsa’s HUD Community Development program.
She holds a Master of Business Administration with a focus on Entrepreneurship from Oklahoma State University, a Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations, and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Hampton University. Her passion for community development was shaped early on through her service activities as a student at Booker T. Washington High School.
Thompson’s professional journey reflects a deep commitment to inclusive banking and economic development, a mission she is now poised to bring to the statewide level through her nomination to the OBA Board of Directors.
