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Some people leave their hometown and never look back. But for Andrea Van Meter, returning to Connersville was a surprising full-circle moment. Now in her fourth year as Athletic Director for Connersville High School, Andrea is living proof that coming home can be the most rewarding move you make.
"I was born and raised in Connersville, but left after graduation. This job brought me back home," Andrea explains. And she's been making an impact ever since.
Behind the Scenes of School Spirit
As Athletic Director, Andrea is in charge of all things athletics for grades 7-12. From scheduling games to coordinating transportation, she handles the behind-the-scenes work that keeps student athletes competing. You can find her at events five to six days a week once school starts—and that's exactly where she wants to be.
But Andrea's role goes far beyond logistics. She's creating connections between the school and the broader Connersville community through initiatives like the annual community trunk or treat in October, where local families can interact with sports teams. She works closely with the parks department to get youth involved in athletics. And she's always wearing Connersville apparel, talking to alumni, and finding ways to bring former students back into the fold.
"I know the connection I had growing up with the community, as far as going to stores, going out to eat, having people come talk to you," Andrea reflects. "Coming back to my hometown, it does pull me into different places, and it’s interesting how everything begins to connect again."
Where Business and Personal Life Intersect
Being Athletic Director in your hometown comes with unique challenges—and unique rewards. "It's a little overwhelming sometimes because people I went to high school with have kids," Andrea admits. "It's hard to separate business and personal life because it all meshes together."
But that overlap creates something valuable: a deep network of community support. "It is nice because I have connections from the past, so if I need someone to help with something, I have a pretty long list of people I know who live in this community who are willing to help. That is from being here, living here."
It's this kind of hometown connection that makes communities strong: when people who grew up together continue investing in the next generation.
A Partnership That Scores Points
For Andrea and Connersville athletics, USLA Bank has been more than just a financial institution—they've been a true partner in supporting student athletes.
"They've been wonderful to work with," Andrea says enthusiastically. She works closely with Derrick at USLA, who manages a basketball trust for both the boys' and girls' basketball programs. But the relationship extends beyond business transactions. "I see him in that business aspect, but I also see him on the tennis courts. We have a great connection."
USLA is currently the exclusive sponsor for Connersville athletics tickets, and that visibility matters. "They support us, and in turn, every game, people know that we have a community bank that is involved," Andrea explains.
The impact of this partnership goes straight to the students. "I love and appreciate their partnership. Our athletes have benefited tremendously from their support."
Community Banking, Community Building
Andrea's story illustrates why community banking matters. When your bank is invested in local schools, sports programs, and youth development, everyone wins. Students get the resources they need to compete. Schools build stronger programs. And the community grows closer as businesses and organizations work together toward common goals.
At USLA, we understand that supporting programs like Connersville athletics isn't just good business—it's an investment in the future of our community. When student athletes succeed, when they learn teamwork and perseverance, when they create memories that bring them back home years later, we all benefit.
Andrea Van Meter came home to Connersville to make a difference. Through her leadership, her connections, and her unwavering commitment to student athletes, she's doing exactly that. We're proud to stand alongside her in supporting the next generation of Connersville champions.
Because at USLA, banking begins with U—and community leaders like Andrea show us that investing in young people is always a winning play.
Does your organization need a banking partner who understands the importance of community investment? Visit us at our Connersville Main location at 730 Central Avenue or call (765) 825-2171 to learn how USLA can support your goals.