Executive Letter: Join the Class of 2024

By Rose Oswald Poels

For generations, banking leaders across the state have made significant strides in ensuring the economic wellbeing of our communities and helping shape our industry into what we know today. To recognize the current and former bankers who have demonstrated excellence in banking, community service, and civic involvement, the Wall of Excellence was established by the Wisconsin Bankers Association in 2020.

Now in its fifth year of honoring Wisconsin’s most prominent bank leaders, the Wall of Excellence currently profiles the faces and stories of 28 Wisconsin bankers — some of whom were recognized posthumously — for their commitment to our industry and demonstration of the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and enthusiastic service. Permanent plaques commending these individuals and families are on display in the WBA Engagement Center in Madison and are seen by thousands of bankers who visit our headquarters annually for a variety of meetings and training programs. An in-person ceremony, featuring speakers from the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) and a member of Congress, will be held in September at the WBA Office to celebrate the Class of 2024 Leaders in Banking Excellence.

Joining the WBA Leaders in Banking Excellence is the Association’s most esteemed honor, and nominations to join as part of the Class of 2024 are being accepted now through Friday, May 10, 2024. Nominators will honor their approved banker(s) by making a $10,000 contribution for an individual or family to the Wisconsin Bankers Association (may be tax-deductible as a business expense) or Wisconsin Bankers Foundation (may be tax-deductible as a charitable contribution).

It is truly a privilege to work alongside you and stand witness to the individual and collective contributions many have made to our industry. Thank you for considering this invitation to nominate yourself or another to join our Class of 2024 Leaders in Banking Excellence at wisbank.com/Excellence. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions.