Community First Bank of Indiana expands local team with four strategic hires

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Community First Bank of Indiana (CFB) has announced the addition of four accomplished professionals to its team: Bryan Mitzelfelt, Rana Sayre, Scott Stars, and Whitney Steltenkamp.

These key hires reflect the bank’s continued growth and investment in excellence across Retail Banking, Human Resources, Commercial Lending, and Mortgage Services.

Elevating customer experience in retail banking

Bryan Mitzelfelt joins as Vice President, Retail Sales Administrator, bringing 17 years of banking experience and a strong track record in sales and branch leadership, particularly in Hamilton County. A graduate of Indiana University Bloomington, he says he is passionate about creating meaningful customer relationships.

“I want every person who walks into our branches to leave with a great experience – one they’d recommend to friends and family,” he said.

Mitzelfeld’s focus on service excellence aligns with CFB’s commitment to delivering personalized, community-centered banking.

Building a people-first culture

As Vice President, Director of Human Resources, Rana Sayre brings nearly four decades of HR expertise spanning talent management, training, benefits, and organizational development. Another IU Bloomington alumna, she holds both SHRM and HRCI certifications.

“People are an organization’s greatest asset,” she said. “I’m excited to help CFB attract top talent and create the right environment for employees to thrive.”

Sayre’s leadership will help shape a workplace where people grow, contribute, and feel valued.

Fueling local business growth

With 18 years in lending – 14 of those in commercial – Scott Stars steps into the role of Vice President, Commercial Lender. A graduate of the University of Phoenix, he has supported small businesses nationwide with loans ranging from $100,000 to $30 million. Now focused on serving Hamilton County, he’s eager to help local entrepreneurs succeed.

“I strive to be a trusted advisor to business owners, helping them scale and reach their goals,” Stars said.

Expanding personalized mortgage solutions

Joining as Vice President, Residential Mortgage Sales Manager, Whitney Steltenkamp brings 27 years of industry experience, with deep expertise across every stage of the mortgage process. A graduate of Indiana Wesleyan University, Steltenkamp is also a dedicated community leader, serving as Treasurer of the Home Builders Association of Howard County since 2019 and as a Commissioner for the Kokomo Housing Authority since January 2025.

“I’m passionate about building strong, service-driven mortgage teams that grow alongside the families they serve,” she said. “From the excitement of a first home to the transitions of retirement, our team is here to guide and support every step of the way.”

Steltenkamp will lead a team of local lenders offering flexible, people-first mortgage solutions across Howard, Hamilton, and Marion counties.

About Community First Bank of Indiana
Community First Bank of Indiana was chartered in 2003 in Kokomo and is committed to keeping outstanding customer service, local decision-making, and relationship-building at its core. The locally owned and operated bank currently has eight offices throughout Fishers, Indianapolis, Kokomo, Noblesville, and Westfield. Bank mission: “We partner with you to build a better future.” Additional information can be found at CFBIndiana.com. Member FDIC.