By Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO
Please join us for an exciting evening of generosity and purpose — all in support of promoting financial literacy and capability across Wisconsin! I would like to extend a personal invitation to each of you to join this meaningful evening benefitting the banking industry’s non-profit public charity, the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation (WBF), at our fourth annual gala.
The gala celebrates the important efforts of the Foundation, non-profit organizations, and bankers who work to promote financial literacy in our state. Every ticket purchased, auction item donated, and bid placed helps fund impactful programs like “Reading Raises Interest” classroom kits, scholarships for aspiring financial professionals, and statewide economic research through Banconomics.
Those who attended the gala in the past know what a lively night it can be! Returning by popular demand is emcee Geoffrey Sandler of Celebrations Entertainment who will once again bring humor and energy to the auction. The silent and live auctions feature a range of items and experiences — your winning bid will support the Foundation’s statewide grants, scholarships, and financial education programs. Attendees will also hear directly from the 2026 WBF grant winners and learn how Foundation funding is improving financial capability in our communities.
Attendees will enjoy a delicious light meal, desserts, and an open bar. The catering team at the Goodman Community Center partners with the TEENworks vocational program which offers work experience to teenagers. Not only do we enjoy the elegant setting of the Brassworks building, the Center’s commitment to education and workforce development reflects the same spirit of community investment that drives WBF’s mission.
The event will take place on Thursday, September 24 from 5:30-8:30 at the Goodman Community Center Brassworks Building in Madison. The event is open to the public, and I cordially invite you and your loved ones to attend this elegant and exciting evening.
Come enjoy conversations with fellow bankers and non-profit leaders from around Wisconsin. Attire can range from business to semi-formal. Come as you are, or dress up and make a night of it! Tickets are $150 per individual or $1,000 for a group of eight — a great option for bringing colleagues, clients, and friends along.
I invite you to take an active role in this important event by attending, sponsoring the gala, and/or donating items for auction. Your sponsorship payments to WBF as a 501(c)3 public charitable organization are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by the IRS rules. Please contact Angie Swanson (aswanson@wisbank.com) or Elizabeth Fenton (efenton@wisbank.com) to sponsor the event or donate auction items.
Please join us for an elegant evening of food, music, networking, and generosity. I look forward to seeing you at one of my favorite events of the year!
