Archive for category: Education

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From the Fields: Recap From the 2023 ABA Agricultural Bankers Conference

By Chris Schneider

This November, about a dozen ag bankers from Wisconsin and I made the trek to Oklahoma City for the 71st annual American Bankers Association (ABA) Agricultural Bankers Conference. This year, the number one message was getting the ACRE Act through Congress to help the American farmer. This act, which would create a tax exemption on ag loans and rural home mortgages, will aid in saving approximately $1.15 billion in ag loan interest and will reach 17,000 local communities across the country.

In attendance at this year’s event was Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R–PA), who chairs the House Committee on Agriculture. During his opening session, GT offered updates on agricultural policies including the Farm Bill and shared what bankers need to know going into 2024. My impression of him was that he is committed to helping the American farmer and local communities.

Interest rate discussion was no surprise due to the past 12 months of increases. While many were questioning whether we will see it rise more, stay stable, or flatten out some, we will have to see if — as usual — the election year brings with it some softening of rates. I’m not sure if we will see the low rates of past years again in future.

Representatives from the ABA and Farmer Mac shared with attendees the results of the 2023 ABA/Farmer Mac Agricultural Bankers Survey. A few of the top and notable themes from this past year have been interest rate volatility, lender competition, credit quality, increased regulator burden, and weak loan demand.

In just the first day of the conference, attendees gained insight into food spending trends (a shocking 51% is spent on food outside of the house), student loan debt, legal cannabis, and more. Throughout the rest of the event, topics including new technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) and ESG trends and the sustainability especially the ag community. To me, the greatest take away from this year’s event was that in order to have successful farmers, ag bankers should be prepared to aid them in strengthening their ag IQ. By understanding the cost of production, strengthening their balance sheet, developing a marketing plan, and utilizing technology to set next level, we can help our clients do all the little things even better.

Schneider is vice president – senior ag banking officer at Nicolet National Bank in Manitowoc. Schneider also serves as Past Chair of the 2023–2024 WBA Agricultural Bankers Section Board of Directors.

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Executive Letter: Building a Brighter, More Secure Future for Wisconsinites

By Rose Oswald Poels

Bankers are known for supporting their communities in a wide variety of ways — yet if there is one cause that is central to our industry, it is financial literacy. WBA-member bank leaders were recently sent a letter in the mail asking you to consider supporting the impactful financial education efforts of the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation (WBF), the non-profit arm of the Wisconsin Bankers Association. This Giving Tuesday, I am repeating this request for your generosity.

A recent study by Edward Jones and Morning Consult showed that nearly half of respondents (44%) were 25 years or older when they gained the majority of their personal finance education, and only 20% of respondents reported learning about financial education in school. The need for financial education is clear, and the good news is that bankers have been coming together for years through the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation to make a meaningful impact. Please see the Year in Review for programming highlights from WBF.

We are proud to report a more than 120% year-over-year increase in the number of elementary school ‘Teach Children to Save’ presentations given with our Reading Raises Interest Kits, and a more than 130% year-over-year increase in the number of applicants for our Spring Scholarships. To keep this strong momentum going, we rely on the generosity of donors like you. Because of WBF’s public charity status, donations may be tax deductible. Our goal is to raise $70,000 for the 2023–2024 fiscal year, and there are three easy ways for you to contribute:

  • Send a check to the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation, 4721 South Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718,
  • Donate online at wisbankfoundation.org/donate, and/or
  • Use the pledge form to donate an item for our silent auction, which will be held online as well as in person at the WBA Bank Executives Conference, February 7–9, 2024.

Your contribution will enable us to continue to:

  • Provide complimentary Reading Raises Interest Kits to teach the importance of saving money at a young age,
  • Award scholarships to current and upcoming college students with interests in the banking industry,
  • Provide comprehensive and comparative data on the banking industry through Banconomics.com,
  • Honor bankers and industry leaders for their engagement with financial literacy, and
  • Offer grants to support outstanding non-profit financial education programs across the state.

Thank you in advance for considering adding your name to the list of our supporters or renewing your commitment. Your contribution — of any size — is not just an investment in financial literacy; it is a commitment to empowering individuals, families, and Wisconsin communities with the knowledge and tools they need for a secure and prosperous future.

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Executive Letter: Empowering Wisconsinites Through Financial Education

By Rose Oswald Poels

Bankers have long been known as advocates for the wellbeing and prosperity of their communities. As the chair of the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation (WBF), our Association’s non-profit arm, I am pleased to recognize bankers who continually go above and beyond in their dedication to financial education.

From sharing insight on topics ranging from budgeting to credit in classrooms, shelters, and community centers to taking part in programming such as Teach Children to Save Day, bankers work to ensure their neighbors feel empowered to make informed financial decisions and have the ability to utilize financial services with confidence.

During the Foundation’s 2022–2023 fiscal year, over 24,700 community members in Wisconsin participated in financial education initiatives led by bankers. This outstanding achievement not only leaves a lifelong impact on community members young and old, but also illustrates the ongoing commitment of bankers in our state to promoting financial capability.

This year, the Foundation held its annual breakfast program at FLEX Retail & Marketing Summit (formerly LEAD360) to honor and celebrate the achievements of many banker volunteers. Thank you to the following bankers who continue to devote their time and expertise to expanding the financial literacy and capability of Wisconsinites.

Jen Yager and Paige Hyer of Royal Bank received the Foundation’s most prestigious Excellence in Financial Education Awards. Throughout the year, Jen conducted a remarkable 50 financial education events and was named as the 2022–2023 Financial Literacy Banker of the Year. Paige, who conducted an impressive 36 events, earned the Financial Literacy Banker Award. The Financial Literacy Banker of the Year and Financial Literacy Banker Award are presented to the bankers who participate in the most and second-most financial education-focused events, respectively. It is especially notable that Jen and Paige were new to volunteering in financial education this past year and have already achieved this level of success.

In addition to these awards, Jen and Paige were also recognized with a Certificate of Excellence alongside Katlein Detloff, Ladysmith Federal Savings & Loan Association; Sarah Rogers, Mound City Bank; Jaclyn Rutkowski and Jodi Vande Kolk, National Exchange Bank & Trust; and Jenean Friedl and Ashley Tabbert, Royal Bank. This certificate is presented to individual bankers who report participation in at least 20 financial education-focused events.

The Foundation also recognized 18 banks with the Excellence in Financial Education (Bank) Award for the bank’s organization-wide commitment to financial education and 48 individual bankers with a Certificate of Recognition for participating in between five and 19 presentations during the fiscal year. To see the full list of recipients, please visit wisbankfoundation.org/award-recipients.

WBF is proud to recognize the work of so many individuals and banks each year, and I invite you to continue sharing your financial literacy efforts from June 1, 2023 onward with the Foundation by completing the submission forms available on the Foundation’s website at any time throughout the year.

Furthermore, if your bank — or current employee(s) — has demonstrated an outstanding effort to increase financial literacy, capability, and inclusion among Wisconsin residents, I would encourage you to apply for the 2023 Governor’s Financial Literacy Awards before the deadline of Friday, December 1. These awards, which recognize both individuals and organizations, emphasize innovative, inclusive, and measurable efforts. Many credit unions are recognized for the work they do in this space as they routinely submit applications, and it would be nice to see the good work you all do recognized as well.

Again, thank you to all of the banker volunteers who continue our industry’s long-standing commitment to improving financial literacy and capability; your efforts do not go unnoticed and have lasting impacts throughout our community.

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5 Steps to Grow Your Bank’s Community Relationships in 2024!

In today’s challenging economic environment, your business customers and community leaders are likely looking for some insight on the economy and expectations for 2024 and beyond. WBA has put together a virtual forum that will bring Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis First Vice President Ron Feldman right into your bank via livestream to provide an economic outlook and address audience questions. The virtual forum will take place live on Thursday, January 11 from 11:00 a.m. – Noon CT. Those who are registered will also receive access to the recording for 14 days following the live presentation.

Step 1: Make a List

Put together a list of your business customers and local community and business leaders to invite to join your bank’s team to watch the January 11 Midwest Economic Forecast Forum. Invite them to join you that morning to network with your staff and other local leaders and enjoy lunch together after the live webinar.

Step 2: Reserve a Room

Be sure to reserve a meeting room, perhaps your boardroom, training room, or a community room, to host your guests. Make sure that you have the right AV in place to be able to project or display the Zoom webinar and have speakers in place for the sound. A test run is always a good idea!

Step 3: Register Online

Register online for a group registration, which includes access for up to 10 different locations. If you have customers who are unable to join you in person, or wish to watch the recording afterwards, add them as your group guests so they get the link directly in their email inbox!

Step 4: Order Lunch

Once you know how many guests to expect, order lunch to be delivered at Noon from a local caterer or restaurant! There’s no better way to support your community than supporting a local business! Don’t forget to order dessert!

Step 5: Host Your Guests!

As you prepare for your guests to arrive, consider having name badges prepared (be sure to have some blank ones available too), brew some coffee, and get some other beverages together. Designate staff to welcome your guests and direct them to the meeting room. Watch the live webinar together and then enjoy lunch while hosting a great networking event!

If you have questions or need assistance with registration, please contact the WBA Education team via email.

 

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Association Update: Unique Benefit Available for Wisconsin’s Banking Leaders

By Daryll Lund

As our industry continues to feel economic and regulatory strain, establishing and maintaining banker networks is one significant way in which the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) helps to inspire success throughout the industry for generations to come. Through membership in WBA’s CEOnly/ CFOnly Networks, Wisconsin CEOs and CFOs have the ability to gain relevant insights, best practices, and recommendations by forming connections with their peers from across the state.

The CEOnly/CFOnly Networks, which were founded on the benefits of knowledge and idea sharing, provide access to a confidential Q&A service and registration to three networking events throughout the year. Many members — including WBA’s 2023–2024 Board of Directors Chair Donna Hoppenjan — agree that by fostering a collaborative environment, bankers are better positioned to stay a step ahead of challenges faced both locally and throughout the industry.

For several years, hundreds of Wisconsin bank leaders have found their CEOnly/CFOnly Network membership, and the positive connections formed, to be of unequivocal value both personally and professionally. In just the last year, members shared over 100 questions and answers amongst the two networks.

Bankers looking to renew or begin their membership for the 2024 CEOnly/CFOnly Networks can expect the same excellent value — three annual networking meetings and the continued Q&A service — all for only $300 a year. Banks registering both their CEO and CFO will also receive the discounted price of $500.

As a reminder, WBA’s CEOnly/CFOnly Networks run on a calendar-year basis starting January 1, and with the 2024 calendar year right around the corner, membership renewal is quickly approaching. All CEOs and CFOs serving a Wisconsinchartered bank are encouraged join the exclusive network for the greatest opportunity to stay informed and connected.

Interested in joining the exclusive network or learning more about what the CEOnly and CFOnly programs can offer for your bank? Please visit wisbank.com/ceonly.

Learn More
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November/December 2023 Wisconsin Banker

Learn more about what ag bankers are expecting in the new year, upcoming WBA events, and how your bank can make an impact with WBA’s advocacy initiatives.

Featured inside are the chair’s column by Donna Hoppenjan, current WBA chair and president and CEO of Mound City Bank, Platteville; Loni Meiborg, senior vice president – organizational development at Fortifi Bank in Berlin; and the Community Advocate, Steve Ploetz, president of Bank of Prairie du Sac.

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My Unconventional Journey into Banking

By Kelsey Hudson

In the heart of rural southwest Wisconsin, my journey into the world of banking began with humble origins. Unbeknownst to me at the time, this journey would take me through twists, turns, and unexpected opportunities that would ultimately shape my career into something I am immensely proud of. Today, I would like to share my story, my path from a small-town resident to a professional in the banking industry, and the role that the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA), specifically Building Our Leaders of Tomorrow (BOLT), played in this inspiring transformation.

About eight years ago, my journey had an uncertain beginning. I attended college for three years but found myself at a crossroads, unsure of what I would do with my degree. Fueled by the desire to chart my own path, I made a bold decision to drop out of college. It was a leap of faith, one that led me into the unknown, but little did I know that it would eventually bring me to the world of banking.

My first job in banking was as a humble teller. This role taught me the basics of finance, customer service, and the importance of trust in the industry. As I developed my skills, I began to explore different positions within the bank. I discovered that my passion for banking extended far beyond counting money. I started in lending as an agricultural lender, working in niche communities of Amish and Mennonites. I found that every role had its unique challenges and opportunities, each contributing to my growth and understanding of the industry.

As my career in banking evolved and life changes arose, I made the decision to relocate myself and my two young daughters to a larger market in pursuit of my dream career as a commercial banker. It was a bold move, as a single mom moving hours from my family and friends. However, one that I knew was essential to continue my personal and professional growth and give my daughters the life they deserved. This transition was one of the most difficult I have faced but the most rewarding. My new home introduced me to a broader spectrum of clients, challenges, and opportunities, reaffirming my passion for the field.

In my journey, one of the pivotal turning points was my involvement in the WBA’s program, BOLT (Building our Leaders of Tomorrow). This remarkable initiative not only introduced me to a network of like-minded professionals but also fostered leadership qualities within me. My network has helped me grow in many ways, but the most impactful was forming meaningful relationships with other bankers. Talking with someone in the same field and being able to have collaborative conversations is priceless to me. Fostering my leadership skills has pushed me to have a greater understanding of people and has inspired me to become a leader. BOLT was a catalyst for personal and professional growth, providing me with the tools and support to excel in my career.

Today, over seven years into my banking career, I’m grateful to work for One Community Bank whose values mirror mine. OCB’s mission is to serve clients, support colleagues and invest in communities. OCB is also all about “Feel Good Banking,” and I aim to deliver that experience with all the wonderful clients I work with. I couldn’t be happier or more proud of everything I have accomplished. From a college dropout unsure of her future to a versatile banking professional, I’ve come a long way. The journey wasn’t a straight line, but that’s what made it so remarkable. It’s a testament to the power of determination, adaptability, and seizing opportunities as they arise.

My unconventional journey into banking reflects the essence of growth and resilience. It’s a story which demonstrates that, regardless of where you start, with dedication, hard work, and the right support (BOLT), you can find your path to a successful career. My journey is far from over, and I’m excited to see what the future holds. In the ever-evolving world of banking, the opportunities are endless, and I’m ready to embrace them all.

Hudson is vice president –commercial banking officer at One Community Bank, Sun Prairie, and member of the 2023–2024 WBA BOLT Section

Member FDIC

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Executive Letter: Enhance Your Leadership and Grow Your Network

By Rose Oswald Poels

As first announced last year, the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) has partnered with several banking trade associations throughout the U.S. to present the Society of Bank Executives. Now wrapping up its inaugural year, the Society has already welcomed more than 125 bank leaders from 13 states — including Wisconsin — into its fold. With evolution touching every aspect of the banking industry, and strong leadership needed now more than ever before, I encourage all bank executive teams in the state to consider the invaluable opportunities offered by the Society of Bank Executives.

The Society, facilitated by Dr. Paul Godfrey of the Brigham Young University Marriott School of Business, aims to provide bank leaders with invaluable professional development opportunities. With two, four-month sessions held each spring and fall, the Society focuses on aiding bank leaders in honing critical leadership competencies and skills as well as connecting members with their peers in a non-competitive setting.

Unlike many other leadership seminars, the Society of Bank Executives is designed with bank leadership teams in mind. The experts leading the Society realize that bank management teams are uniquely positioned within their organization and as such ensure the programing is flexible and applicable to all leaders.

Prior to the start of each session, members are recommended a book to help establish key concepts and ideas for the events ahead. Throughout the four-month session, three 60–90-minute online seminars will aid bankers in building on these takeaways and consider elements related to shareholders, regulators, customers, and communities. These sessions are specifically designed to engage C-level bankers in study, analysis, and application of the “art” of leading a bank.

Additionally, new and returning members alike will benefit from self-paced elements and an expansive online library, which includes access to a number of past sessions and materials related to strategic risk management and trust & team building. Each bank member is also assigned to a peer group with bankers in other states. These peer groups determine additional dates/times to meet virtually to follow up on the facilitated sessions and further share in a banker-only group.

During the third month of each session, members take part in a two-day networking retreat. Last week, the Society hosted its fall 2023 Action Summit in Scottsdale, Arizona. Focused on connecting members with their banking peers from across the country, the Society’s Action Summits build time into the event for networking, facilitated sessions with Dr. Godfrey and other industry thought leaders, and table peer group discussions. Before returning to the bank, attendees also have the chance to develop an action plan.

Of course, networking is not only about building relationships. Again and again, I am reminded of how important it is that bankers of all levels invest in their professional growth and leverage the collective knowledge and opportunities within their network to advance their bank’s success. The Society does just that. I’ve heard from several Society members who have, in just one year, found the program to be beneficial in enhancing their soft skills to effectively lead in an evolving landscape and develop strong bonds with bankers from across the country. I encourage all bank leaders in Wisconsin to utilize this unique opportunity to guide new professional and organizational growth and foster non-competitive partnerships.

With new technology, regulatory updates, and shifting customer expectations emerging each day, the spring 2024 session will focus on change management. As this year’s sessions come to a close, now is the perfect opportunity for bank leaders in Wisconsin to sign on by January 2024 as individual members or as a team to enhance their organization’s ability to implement new strategies and drive the industry forward.

Join the Society
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Executive Letter: Inspiring a Generation of Future Bankers

By Rose Oswald Poels

For many of us, the beginning of autumn marks back to school. While hundreds of bankers across the state prepare for new professional development opportunities, many of our future colleagues and leaders are as well.

As bankers are well aware, a shrinking talent pool threatens the long-term viability and competitiveness of our industry. Led by Chair Donna Hoppenjan, the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) is encouraging the membership to consider the ways in which we each can engage — or “inspire” — the next generation to consider a career in banking. It is vital that bankers today are proactive in ensuring our industry’s future success by connecting with students and demonstrating the opportunities available to them.

With talent recruitment at the top of mind for many banks, the Association will once again be hosting several “career night” presentations in the coming months. With the goal of closing the gap between students and banking professionals, these upcoming events are open to students interested in learning more about the industry, what careers are available to them, and why the banking industry might be a good fit for them. Starting this fall, and throughout the academic school year, career nights will take place at Marquette University, UW–Eau Claire, UW–Green Bay, UW–La Crosse, UW–Madison, and UW–Whitewater, with the possibility of more locations being added.

If you, or someone from your bank, are interested in partnering with the Association to serve as a panelist at one of these upcoming events, please contact our team.

In addition to directly connecting with students during a career fair or panel presentation, bankers are also encouraged to share opportunities to further students’ experiences and engagement with the banking industry. Internships are a great example of this, and WBA members may post internship job ads at no cost in our Banker’s Marketplace.

Additionally, sharing the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation’s (WBF) fourth annual Agricultural Banking Scholarship opportunity widely among your networks is an easy way to invest in the students who are interested in a banking career and driving our agricultural sector. The application period is open through November 15, 2023, for students currently enrolled at an accredited Wisconsin college, university, or technical college who are pursuing a career related to agribusiness. Two scholarships of $1,500 each are available.

Like our members, WBA is dedicated to ensuring a bright future for the industry. With your help, we can demonstrate the diverse and rewarding career paths available within the banking sector, foster relationships with students eager to explore these opportunities, and provide the necessary support for them to thrive in our industry.

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Chair’s Column: Advance Our Industry by Investing in Your People

Donna Hoppenjan

By Donna Hoppenjan

One of the Association’s primary goals for the year ahead is to continue shaping a solid future for the banking industry. As our members are well aware, the industry has evolved a great deal in the last several years. In order to remain receptive to the development that is yet to come, it is vital that our current bank leaders prioritize their investment into the future success of the industry.

Through the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA), over 30,000 bankers across Wisconsin gain access to ongoing educational opportunities. These various schools, workshops, and conferences are designed specifically to aid bankers across the state in gaining leadership skills, expanding their expertise, and serving as advocates on behalf the industry they represent.

As we invest in our emerging leaders and bankers of the future, it is important to provide relevant, high-quality resources and connections. BOLT (Building Our Leaders of Tomorrow) and WBA Connect are just two of the programs WBA offers that combine personal and professional development opportunities with numerous chances to build networks, ask questions, and share ideas. Annually, hundreds of bankers benefit from cultivating relationships with their peers and becoming involved with the Association.

Additionally, bankers may choose to utilize WBA’s Legal Call Program to connect with seasoned attorneys that understand the industry, review best practices created by bankers in Wisconsin, or stay abreast of the latest industry news by subscribing to the Wisconsin Banker Daily e-newsletter or the Wisconsin Banker bimonthly publication.

Beyond developing our current teams, focusing on the future workforce is a priority for many. In order to drive our industry forward, it is critical that bankers commit themselves to promoting banking as a career. Taking part in volunteer work, hosting financial literacy presentations, and connecting with students are just a few meaningful and inspirational actions our membership can highlight when talking about the many rewarding aspects of a banking career. WBA provides resources to help members interact with future bankers including consumer-focused resources, financial education tools, and engagement opportunities at colleges across the state.

As your team considers new ways to invest in your employees and attract new talent, I encourage you to utilize the opportunities provided by WBA. No matter how your bank decides to make the most of WBA’s programs, it is gratifying to know that the success of our institutions and team members is the sole mission of the Association.

Hoppenjan is president and CEO of Mound City Bank, Platteville, and the 2023–2024 WBA Chair.

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