EFFINGHAM, IL /MATTOON, IL — Washington Savings Bank has announced the appointment of Blake Pierce to its Board of Directors, effective January 14, 2026.
“As a mutual bank, our focus has always been on long-term stability and serving our communities well,” said Paul Koerner, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Washington Savings Bank. “Blake’s background in finance, development, and community leadership aligns perfectly with those values, and we’re excited to welcome him to our Board.”
Pierce currently serves as President of RK Real Estate & Development, the affiliated real estate organization of Rural King. In this role, he manages all aspects of the company’s real estate strategy, including property acquisition, disposition, development, and management. Founded in Mattoon, Illinois, in 1960, Rural King has expanded into a nationwide farm and home retailer with over 150 locations across 17 states. In addition to his work with RK Real Estate & Development, Pierce is the co-owner of Warren James Winery, a vineyard, winery, and restaurant located in Mattoon, Illinois.
Pierce holds both a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Eastern Illinois University. He joined Rural King in 2012 and has held various leadership roles in finance, operations, and real estate, including Vice President of Finance, Director of Financial Planning and Analysis, Vice President of Finance & Operations for Rural King Realty, and Director of Real Estate & Economic Development, before assuming his current role as President of RK Real Estate & Development.
Beyond his professional experience, Pierce has a strong record of community involvement and leadership. He currently serves as President and board member of Mattoon Sports Complex, Inc., Treasurer and board member of Coles Together—Coles County’s economic development entity—and as a member of the Eastern Illinois University Business Advisory Board. He also played a key leadership role in the development of Emerald Acres Sports Connection in Mattoon, contributing to both the sports facilities and the surrounding commercial development.
His combination of strategic business insight and hands-on community involvement reflects a deep commitment to regional growth that aligns closely with Washington Savings Bank’s mission and values.
“I am very grateful for this opportunity to learn and support Washington Savings Bank,” said Blake Pierce. “The Bank’s commitment to community and its people connects well with my passion for the advancement of our region. I look forward to building on that legacy and hope to live up to the strong foundation the Board has already established.”
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About Washington Savings Bank
Founded in 1883, Washington Savings Bank is a mutual community bank proudly serving customers across central Illinois. As a mutual bank, Washington Savings Bank is owned by its depositors, not shareholders, allowing the bank to focus on long-term stability, strong customer relationships, and a positive community impact. The bank has maintained a 5-Star Superior rating from BauerFinancial for over 30 years and was named the 2025 JG-TC Readers’ Choice Best Local Financial Institution, Best Mortgage Company, and was recognized as a Favorite in the Best Place to Work category.