Celebrating Julie Fahrlander:

A fond farewell after 24 years of creativity and care.

Just one year shy of her 25th anniversary, we’re celebrating the incredible career and well-earned retirement of our longtime teammate, Julie Fahrlander.

You likely know Julie in her most recent role as Web Concierge, where she’s been the friendly, steady hand behind countless client websites. But that’s just one of the many hats she’s worn at IdeaBank over the years. She’s served as designer, illustrator, web developer, and project manager, each role showcasing her creativity, adaptability, and devotion to client success.

After December 1st, Julie will be officially retired, joining her husband in this next exciting chapter, and will focus full-time on her Fahrside Art Studio.

A Career of Creativity and Connection

Julie began her career as a commercial artist right out of UNK, working in Omaha design studios that served clients such as ConAgra and American Gramophone Records. When life brought her to Grand Island, she connected with Ann Martin and joined Portwood & Martin Advertising as a designer.

After a brief hiatus and an adventure in Texas, Julie returned to what had become IdeaBank Marketing, bringing with her a new skillset in web development. From that moment on, she became an integral part of IdeaBank’s story.

Julie’s Lasting Impact

Over the years, Julie has not only shaped our creative work but helped build the systems that keep IdeaBank running smoothly today. Some of her most notable accomplishments include:

• Implementing email marketing services for our clients, adapting to new technologies as they appear on the horizon: from simple newsletters to automations and workflows. 
• Establishing the use of Content Management Systems for our web development - allowing clients easier access to manage their own content without making their eyes cross when seeing HTML code.
• Enhancing our web services, from implementing a support ticketing system to initiating SEO offerings that continue to serve clients today.

Julie’s contributions extend far beyond her technical skills—they’ve strengthened our culture of collaboration, curiosity, and care.

In Her Own Words

“After 24 wonderful years at IdeaBank Marketing, I’m filled with gratitude for every client, vendor, and colleague I’ve had the privilege to work with. The relationships, the collaboration, and the chance to be of service and to help others succeed have been the greatest rewards of my career. I’ve loved being part of a team that cares deeply, creates boldly, and supports one another every step of the way. It's especially wonderful to have people who understand me in all my quirkiness!”

 — Julie Fahrlander

From Sherma

“Julie has been part of my professional journey from the very beginning, and I’ve always admired her work ethic, artistic talent, and unwavering commitment to our clients. She’s been a trusted teammate, a true collaborator, and a cornerstone of our web team. We’ll deeply miss her presence and care.” 

 — Sherma Jones, Agency Principal

Looking Ahead

Julie leaves IdeaBank in good hands, with Angela Keiser fully trained to carry forward her work and bring her own talents to IdeaBank Marketing. (Read more about Angela in her Introduction blog post.)

Please join us in celebrating Julie—her talent, her heart, and her remarkable 24-year journey with IdeaBank.

Thank you, Julie, for everything. You’ll always be part of the IdeaBank family.