Executive Letter: Taking the Next Step With GSB
By Rose Oswald Poels
The Wisconsin Bankers Association is committed to providing bankers across Wisconsin with opportunities to expand their knowledge and skills to take the next steps in their career. With hundreds of educational programs, courses, and workshops offered each year, bankers — regardless of their position within the bank — are sure to find a relevant and high-quality educational resource that aligns with their career trajectory. In addition to WBA’s offerings, the Graduate School of Banking (GSB) at UW–Madison is another excellent opportunity for WBA members to elevate their careers.
As a former faculty member and current member of GSB’s Board of Directors, I have seen first-hand the significant impact GSB has had on bankers across the country and right here in our state. Offering a comprehensive course of study that focuses on meeting the changing needs of today’s bank manager, the school’s curriculum covers all areas of banking — finance, technology, marketing, management, and more. During their time at GSB, not only are attendees able to connect with bankers from across the country, but the school’s faculty — 90% of whom are current or former bankers — are respected nationwide for their expertise in banking-related issues and bring real-world examples to the classroom. By the end of the 25-month program, students will have established lifelong professional networks and have the ability to use learned concepts to add relevance and value to their own institutions. Graduates will also receive the prestigious Certificate of Executive Leadership from the Wisconsin School of Business Professional and Executive Development.
The enrollment deadline for GSB’s flagship Graduate School of Banking program is quickly approaching on June 15, 2024. With limited space, bankers interested in attending the July 28–August 9, 2024, session should complete the application soon. Additionally, WBA-member bankers who will be enrolled as a first-year student at the Graduate Banking School during the 2024 session may also qualify for the Prochnow Educational Foundation/Wisconsin Bankers Association Scholarship.
Eligible candidates for the Prochnow Educational Foundation/Wisconsin Bankers Association Scholarship are those who are currently employed at a WBA-member bank in Wisconsin, have attended and successfully completed at least one WBA school, and/or are an active member of Building Our Leaders of Tomorrow (BOLT). The nomination form — which can be completed by the prospective student or a manager — is quick and easy to complete, only requiring information regarding the individual’s professional background, interest in attending the Graduate School of Banking at UW–Madison, and an endorsement from management. In total, the Prochnow Educational Foundation/Wisconsin Bankers Association Scholarship covers approximately 1/3 of the annual tuition fees for the 25-month program and is awarded to one WBA-member banker annually.
To nominate yourself or a member of your team who will be beginning their first year at GSB, please complete the nomination form prior to the April 29, 2024, deadline.