Archive for category: Community

North Shore Bank announced recently the company has been named to Forbes Best-In-State Banks list for 2025. The community bank has been providing financial services to local residents for over 100 years and has received Best-In-State Banks distinction for Wisconsin by Forbes six times.

Forbes’ 2025 edition of America’s Best-In-State Banks recognizes the financial institutions most valued by residents in each state—those that stand out for meeting the unique needs and expectations of their local communities. To determine the top performers, Forbes partnered with market research firm Statista, drawing on two main data sources: an independent survey of approximately 26,000 U.S. consumers who evaluated banks across key criteria such as trust, terms and conditions, branch services, digital services, customer services, and financial advice, as well as a sentiment analysis of publicly available online reviews for each bank, in each state.

“It’s a true honor to be recognized as Best in State for the sixth year,” said Susan T. Doyle, senior vice president of retail banking for North Shore Bank. “For more than 100 years, we’ve built lasting, trusted relationships—with our customers, our communities, and our employees—and this recognition is a reflection of that ongoing commitment.”

What started as a simple call for donations turned into a powerful show of community spirit. Throughout April, The Stephenson National Bank & Trust (SNBT) rallied its employees, customers, and communities to collect essential household items for local families in need, and the results were inspiring.

Partnering with the Departments of Health and Human Services (DHHS) in Marinette and Oconto Counties, Wisconsin, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) in Menominee County, SNBT gathered hundreds of hygiene and cleaning products—from toothpaste and shampoo to laundry detergent and disinfecting wipes. With donation drop-offs set up in every SNBT office, the project became a shared mission. Employees spread the word and shopped for essential items, and customers and local residents generously provided additional supplies. The donated items have now been delivered to each of the county offices where they are ready to be distributed to families who need them most.

“This wasn’t just about collecting supplies, it was about showing up for our neighbors,” said Greg Salmen, SNBT President & CEO. “We’re proud to be part of a community that cares deeply and gives generously.”

The drive was part of the Wisconsin Bankers Association’s (WBA) Power of CommUNITY campaign, a statewide initiative that brings banks together to highlight the positive impact they make beyond financial services. SNBT’s contribution focused on practical support, meeting everyday needs that are often overlooked.

As SNBT team members delivered the collected items to each of the offices in Marinette, Menominee, and Oconto Counties, the message was clear: when a community comes together, small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

The Stephenson National Bank & Trust (SNBT) is a 150-year-old independent, employee-owned, community bank with almost $1.8 billion in Bank, Mortgage, and Wealth assets under management. Offices are located in Marinette, Wausaukee, Crivitz, Pembine, and Oconto, Wis. and Menominee, Mich. with a Trust & Investment Office in Marquette, Mich. and a Commercial Loan Services Office in Green Bay, Wis. For more information about SNBT visit www.snbt.com.

North Shore Bank today announced the opening date for its full-service West De Pere branch located at 820 Main Avenue in De Pere. The new office will be open on Monday, June 23.

The branch combines North Shore Bank’s personalized service with an updated modern design, enhanced offerings including convenient 7-Day Banking in the drive-up. The new location offers a welcoming experience and private meeting spaces, plus extended drive-up hours to better meet customers’ needs.

“We’re thrilled to open the doors to our first brick-and-mortar branch in West De Pere this June,” said Kerri Collins, vice president and northeast district manager at North Shore Bank. “We can’t wait to welcome both long-term and new customers into our updated space, where they’ll enjoy personalized service from the same friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable employees, plus new features and added conveniences designed to make their banking experience even better.”

The bank’s Ashwaubenon branch, located at 2215 S. Oneida Street, will close on Friday, June 20, and its services are transitioning to the West De Pere branch. To ensure a smooth transition, customers have received additional information about the move, and they will continue to receive the same supportive service from bankers at the West De Pere and any of the bank’s surrounding area offices.

“We’re proud to be part of the Green Bay community for over 35 years, and we’re excited to continue our commitment with our new branch,” Collins added. “We truly value the trusted relationships we’ve built with our customers and look forward to welcoming them to our office in West De Pere.”

Wolf River Community Bank announced the first recipients of its inaugural scholarship program

Wolf River Community Bank is proud to announce the recipients of its inaugural scholarship program, awarding three $1,500 scholarships—to graduating seniors from Hortonville, New London, and Shiocton High Schools. This new initiative reflects the bank’s commitment to investing in local students and will continue as an annual offering in the years ahead. The program is designed to support students who demonstrate academic excellence, community involvement, and a strong interest in pursuing careers in business, finance, or related fields.

This year’s scholarship recipients are:
•  Max Behling — New London High School
•  Sarah Bendorf — Hortonville High School
•  Tyler Pamperin — Shiocton High School

Max Behling, New London High School scholarship recipient, is heading to the University of Wisconsin–Madison to pursue a finance degree, inspired by his parents’ careers in business. Max prepared for college with advanced coursework, earning straight A’s, even while taking AP, dual-credit, and finance-related classes. He was active in National Honor Society, Math League, and numerous extracurriculars—including varsity football, basketball, and track—where he earned “Best Teammate” awards and multiple medals. Max also excelled in the arts, performing in musicals, show choir, and even with Barry Manilow and at the Grand Ole Opry. Committed to his community, Max volunteered with Student Council, Wreaths Across America, and as a coach at a youth basketball camp.

Sarah Bendorf, Hortonville High School scholarship recipient, is an aspiring accounting major at the University of Wisconsin–Madison with plans to attend law school. Selected as Hortonville High School’s representative for the Wisconsin Leadership Seminar, she went on to serve as Public Relations Director for the Alumni Association and currently holds the position of Board Vice President. A varsity girls soccer player, Sarah shared her passion for the sport by coaching youth teams and mentoring middle school students through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She has also held leadership roles in DECA and served as a Crew Leader and Sunday School teacher for Vacation Bible School. Sarah balances her time between three jobs—including roles at the Timber Rattlers Stadium, the YMCA, and the Fox Club—and is a member of both the National and Spanish Honor Societies.

Tyler Pamperin, Shiocton High School scholarship recipient, is planning to attend the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point to pursue a degree in Business Administration, with interests in accounting and finance. Tyler aims to give back to his community by managing a business that creates jobs and provides valuable goods or services. While in high school, Tyler worked for a local grocery store, balancing employment with his school and club responsibilities. He was an active member and leader in National Honor Society, Student Council, and Future Business Leaders of America as Chapter Vice President and then Chapter President. Tyler contributed over 160 hours of community service, including leading an Eagle Scout project for the City of New London Parks and Recreation Department. His dedication and achievements earned him the honor of being selected as class valedictorian.

“As a community bank, we believe in building stronger communities by investing in the future workforce,” said Joe Peikert, CEO at Wolf River Community Bank. “Through our commitment to financial well-being, service, and education, we are proud to support the next generation of skilled professionals who demonstrate excellence and who strive to make a positive impact on those around them. We congratulate Sarah, Max, and Tyler as the first recipients of our scholarship program—we’re incredibly proud of their accomplishments and dedication.”

The scholarships were announced and presented during each school’s senior awards ceremony in May. This initiative underscores Wolf River Community Bank’s mission to strengthen the communities it serves—not only through financial services, but by actively investing in the next generation.

Graduating seniors from the class of 2026 will be eligible to apply for next year’s scholarships beginning in March 2026. For more information about the scholarship program, please visit www.wolfriverbank.com/scholarships.

Wisconsin Bankers Association President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels recently presented a plaque to Farmers & Merchants Union Bank’s Gregory J. LeCaptain in recognition of his 33 years of service in banking and in celebration of his retirement.

LeCaptain started in banking in November, 1992. He worked with Farmers & Merchants Union Bank since June 10, 2015 as AVP, Ag / Commercial Lender.

WBA congratulates Greg on his retirement and thanks him for his many years contributing to the success of the banking industry in Wisconsin.