Bank 21's Carman Booker Named Woman of the Year

Carman Booker, senior vice president with Bank 21 in Blue Springs, was honored with the Missouri Bankers Association 2025 Woman of the Year Award on Thursday, Aug. 21, during MBA’s 60th Banking on Women Conference in Osage Beach.

Booker is the first person to receive this award, which recognizes a banker who is excelling in her career while also making a significant impact on the banking industry and the banking community through professional growth and community involvement. A state banking association selected Booker among several nominations.

In her role as senior vice president, Booker oversees the bank’s retail operations and compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act. She is one of the most trusted leaders in her bank and plays a key role in shaping the culture and direction of the bank.

“Carman reflects everything we value at Bank 21 — strong leadership, deep community roots and a commitment to helping others succeed,” said Bank 21 CEO Tyler Knott. “She leads by example, mentors with heart and lifts up everyone around her.”

Booker’s banking career spans more than 22 years, including 10 years with Bank 21. She leads the bank’s retail operations, compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act, business development, culture and customer experience. Knott said Booker is a driving force behind training and leadership development for the next generation of bankers.

“Carman isn’t afraid of change. She embraces it and encourages others to lean into growth, innovation and accountability,” Knott said.

Booker has been a constant champion and mentor for women throughout her career. She helps them find their confidence and walks alongside them as they define their own version of success, Knott said.

“Carman has a gift for recognizing potential in others,” he said.

That gift has been carried over into Booker’s involvement with MBA. As a member and current vice chair of the Women Bankers Committee, Booker has shared her perspectives on conference topics for MBA’s Banking on Women Conference, the longest-running banking conference for women in the country.

Booker’s influence extends beyond the bank. She has deep roots in her community and is actively involved with the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce, the Blue Springs Police Department Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association and You Matter Movement, an organization that helps people facing poverty, addiction or mental health challenges. Booker was honored as an Eastern Jackson County Woman of Distinction in 2024.