Tag Archive for: Committee Chair Spotlight

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Committee Chair Spotlight: Get to Know WBA’s 2025–2026 Marketing Committee Chair Kathy Rolfs

Kathy Rolfs

Kathy Rolfs, VP/Chief Marketing & Communications Officer with PremierBank, is the newly appointed chair of the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) Marketing Committee.

As steps into her new role, WBA asked her a few questions to help members learn more about her.

Can you share a bit about your experience in banking?

My path into banking was a bit unconventional. After graduating from UW–Madison, I began my career at an ad agency. One of my clients was a successful, fast-growing De Novo bank, and I had the opportunity to work directly with its CEO who became a mentor and great friend! As a young college grad without a finance background, in the beginning, I asked a lot of questions to be successful in the public relations and marketing efforts I was hired to do. Fortunately, he was a kind and patient mentor who appreciated my storytelling skills and valued that I wasn’t afraid to challenge traditional marketing strategies and often pitched public relations-focused ideas and marketing initiatives that worked! Eventually, he created a new position and offered me a role at his bank, and I became their first Director of Marketing. About ten years later, we were acquired by an out-of-state regional bank. That experience gave me firsthand insight into the merger process, knowledge that proved valuable when the next community bank I worked for also merged with a larger institution.

I’m now with PremierBank, one of Wisconsin’s first federally chartered banks, founded in the 1860s. It’s been interesting to serve both ends of the spectrum, from being part of a De Novo team of all new employees, to joining a bank that has been around almost as long as the town it was formed in, serving generations of families, with many legacy employees who have served in their roles for decades. Each has its own strengths, and I count myself lucky to experience both types of institutions.

Despite the unexpected twists and economic ups and downs along the way, I’ve found my banking career path to be incredibly rewarding. It’s deeply satisfying to see the real impact our work has in helping people achieve their goals and dreams. And, the constantly changing duties that fall under a bank’s marketing realm keeps the job both challenging and interesting.

What you are looking forward to most during the year ahead as chair of the WBA Marketing Committee?

We have a strong committee made up of both experienced bank marketers and those new to the industry. It’s always a treat to gather in person at the WBA office and build community; I look forward to each quarterly meeting where we share insights, exchange ideas about vendors, and learn from one another about a myriad of topics that impact each of us. This year, it’s especially exciting to have a diverse range of bank sizes represented. I am committed to keeping the strong momentum established by the talented chairs who came before me.

Your favorite quote?

“Don’t count the people that you reach, reach the people who count.” – David Ogilvy

Your favorite podcast or binge-worthy series?

I’ve been listening to “Here’s Where it Gets Interesting” lately after reading the recent NYT bestseller, The Small and the Mighty. The author/podcaster is super interesting (at least to me)!

“When I am not at work, you can find me…”

Hanging out with my family; reading or at a book club; walking out in nature; or baking sourdough bread (my newest hobby).

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Committee Chair Spotlight: Get to Know WBA’s 2025–2026 Human Resources Committee Chair Lindsey Growette Stingle

Lindsey Growette Stingle, SVP, Chief Human Resources Officer with National Bank of Commerce, is the newly appointed chair of the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) Human Resources Committee.

Lindsey Growette Stingle

As steps into her new role, WBA asked her a few questions to help members learn more about her.

Can you share a bit about your experience in banking?

My banking journey began at National Bank of Commerce (NBC) in 2011, when I was hired to learn payroll. Over the past nearly 15 years, I’ve grown with the organization, serving in a variety of HR roles. In 2019, I joined NBC’s executive leadership team, where I continue to advocate for the value of HR in driving organizational success.

What you are looking forward to most during the year ahead as chair of the WBA Human Resources Committee?

Since joining the WBA HR Committee in 2021, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with a dedicated group of HR professionals who are passionate about supporting Wisconsin’s banking community. As chair, I’m most looking forward to expanding the tools, resources, and peer connections that help HR leaders navigate challenges and build trust within their organizations. I also see a meaningful opportunity to elevate the voice of HR in community banks, particularly in institutions where HR is not yet represented at the executive level. By highlighting the strategic value HR brings, we can help shape stronger, more resilient organizations.

Your favorite quote?

I don’t know if it’s my favorite quote, but a quote that has stuck with me is from Jack Welch: “Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.”

Your favorite podcast or binge-worthy series?

I don’t watch much TV, and when I am walking or driving, I tend to turn off the noise and let my mind wander – or I’ll listen to music. That said, I’ve enjoyed a few episodes of The Mel Robbins Podcast. I appreciate how she blends practical tools with research-backed insights. As for TV, I did watch and loved Ted Lasso – the leadership lessons and heart in that show resonated with me.

“When I am not at work, you can find me…”

Enjoying the lake with my family!

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Section Chair Spotlight: Get to Know WBA’s 2025–2026 BOLT Section Board Chair Committee Landon Turner

Landon Turner

Landon Turner, AVP business banking with Oostburg State Bank, is the newly appointed chair of the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) BOLT Section Board Chair.

As Turner steps into his new role, WBA asked him a few questions to help members learn more about him.

Can you share a bit about your experience in banking?

I became an “accidental banker” after moving from Arizona to Wisconsin after graduating from Grand Canyon University with a degree in Finance. My first position in banking was commercial credit analyst at a mid-size community bank located in Sheboygan, Wis. I was new to the area, eager to learn from a great team, and network with other business professionals. From the time I attended my first community event through our local chamber of commerce, I knew I wanted to be in a customer facing role. My next few years would be spent learning the banking business and learning the intricacies of many different businesses. My motto since entering the professional landscape has been “get comfortable being uncomfortable.” I achieved this by saying yes to every opportunity to serve in the community, attend networking opportunities, speaking engagements, and professional development opportunities. This mindset, along with the help of others I met along the way is what led me to where I am today as Chair of WBA BOLT Section and my position as commercial loan officer at Oostburg State Bank. I am grateful for the opportunity to wake up every morning, have conversations with business owners, co-workers, and mentors to collaborate on to make businesses thrive in our communities. I did not understand the power of community growing up in a large city in Phoenix, Ariz. So, when I moved to Sheboygan, Wis. nearly seven years ago and started working in community banking, I was amazed how everyone works together for the betterment of each other. I am proud to be part of the banking industry which provides the capital necessary to keep small businesses thriving. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and I have the honor of being a small part of this shared success.

What you are looking forward to most during the year ahead as chair of the WBA BOLT Section Board?

I am most excited for the tremendous growth and momentum the WBA BOLT Section has built over the years. WBA BOLT (Building Our Leaders of Tomorrow) holds two annual leadership summits in Wisconsin each year, one in the summer and one in the fall. These summits are where we spend most of our time planning because we make the greatest impact and reputation for rising leaders in the banking industry during these events. Community Banking is not typically the first choice for young finance professionals graduating from college, so it is our responsibility to educate and inspire rising bank leaders the “why” behind our day-to-day activities and why it is so important for thriving communities. We partner with families, individuals, and businesses on emotional experiences, like buying your first car, or your first house, or venturing into business ownership for the first time. I am honored to serve as Chair of WBA BOLT Section 2025-2026 with so many passionate bankers across the state of Wisconsin. 

Your favorite quote?

“Get comfortable being uncomfortable” 

Your favorite podcast or binge-worthy series?

Favorite Podcast “The Game with Alex Hormozi” 

“When I am not at work, you can find me…”

Spending time with my wife and two boys. On the golf course. Wake Surfing in the lakes of Wisconsin. 

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Committee Chair Spotlight: Get to Know WBA’s 2025–2026 Retail Committee Chair Heather Mader

Heather Mader, vice president / branch manager with Port Washington State Bank is the newly appointed chair of the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) Retail Committee.

Heather Mader

As Mader steps into her new role, WBA asked her a few questions to help members learn more about her.

Can you share a bit about your experience in banking?

With 21 years of experience in Retail banking, I’ve built a career grounded in growth, service, and a deep appreciation for community-focused financial institutions. I began at M&I Bank, transitioned to a Community Bank in Trust, and eventually joined Port Washington State Bank, where I proudly serve as VP Branch Manager of  the Mequon Location. Throughout my journey, I’ve discovered the true value in the relationship-building approach that community banking offers. Unlike the big box banks, community banks allow for more meaningful, personalized connections with customers—where service goes beyond transactions and becomes about trust, support, and long-term partnership. I take great pride in being part of an environment where we know our customers by name and where every interaction has the power to positively impact someone’s life.

What you are looking forward to most during the year ahead as chair of the WBA Retail Committee?

As I step into the year ahead as Chair of the WBA Retail Committee, I’m truly excited to be part of such a dedicated and collaborative group of banking professionals. It’s an honor to work alongside peers who are passionate about sharing ideas, strengthening our industry, and supporting one another’s growth. One of the highlights for me is the opportunity to review scholarship applications and help select the deserving recipients—an inspiring reminder of the talent and dedication within our banking community. I also look forward to the Flex conference in the fall, where we’ll come together to build connections, exchange ideas, and continue learning from one another as we navigate the ever-evolving world of banking.

Your favorite quote?

She was powerful, not because she wasn’t scared but because she went on so strongly, despite the fear”-Atticus from To Kill a Mocking Bird

Your favorite podcast or binge-worthy series?

Dateline. I love all the crime shows though.

“When I am not at work, you can find me…”

Up North in the woods or on a lake.

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Committee Chair Spotlight: Get to Know WBA’s 2025–2026 Ag Section Chair Nicholas Felder

Nicholas J. Felder, vice president, commercial/ag banking with MidWestOne Bank is the newly appointed chair of the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) Agricultural Bankers Section.

Nicholas Felder

As Felder steps into his new role, WBA asked him a few questions to help members learn more about him.

Can you share a bit about your experience in banking?
My experience in banking started with USBank on the retail side in 2004. I transitioned to a small, growing regional bank in 2006 as a commercial underwriter and have been in underwriting or direct lending for the past 19 years, the last five with MidWestOne Bank in Lancaster

What you are looking forward to most during the year ahead as chair of the WBA Committee or Section Board?
As Chair of the Ag Section Board, I want to continue to excellence in leadership of past chairs and continue to bring positive impact to the Ag Banking community here in WI through advocacy as well as programming at the Ag Banker’s Conference. The team at WBA makes our roles and the transitions as Chair seamless and nearly effortless. Their leadership makes my leadership infinitely more impactful.

Your favorite quote?
“It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker that we expect our dinner, but from their regard for their own interest.”  – Adam Smith

Your favorite podcast or binge-worthy series?
Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan

“When I am not at work, you can find me…”
You will find me on the golf course.

 

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Committee Chair Spotlight: Craig Rogan

The following is a brief interview with Craig Rogan, vice president – agricultural banking officer at Nicolet National Bank in Stevens Point. Rogan is chair of the 2023–2024 Agricultural Bankers Section.

How did you first get into the banking industry?

Actually, I started as a teller during college and worked my way through to commercial lender. Teller for about six months, then a personal banker for three years, mortgage lender for three years, and then commercial/ag lender for the last 18 years.

Why did you decide to join a WBA committee? Why should others consider lending their time and expertise to shaping Wisconsin’s banking industry?

The Board position was an opportunity to give back the banking industry that has allowed me to provide for my family and work with individual farms as they work to feed the world.

[Joining a committee or section] is a great opportunity to talk with legislators and hear what is going on in the state of Wisconsin. These conversations help inform the resources Wisconsin Bankers Association offers. In addition, it is your personal chance to work with peers in the industry from all around Wisconsin to learn and grow as a professional in the banking industry. The knowledge you obtain from peers can assist you with your customer base.

How has WBA facilitated the growth you have seen in your career and as a leader?

It has allowed me to meet with local legislators through Capitol Day hosted by WBA has at the Capitol. It has allowed me to continue my growth as a lender and ability to learn from my peers in the industry.

As a banker, and as a leader, what is the most important lesson that you have learned?

There is always something to be learned each an everyday. The knowledge you obtain by being part of the WBA board allows you to succeed.

Who (or what) motivates you to succeed?

I believe a lot of my success has come through each and every day I have the mentality that there is more to learn and that I what I know today is not good enough tomorrow.

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Committee Chair Spotlight: Mira Hird

The following is a brief interview with Mira Hird, assistant vice president – residential relationship manager at Peoples State Bank, Wauzeka. Hird is chair of the 2023–2024 Mortgage Lending Committee.

How did you first get into the banking industry?

I found my finance and business classes very interesting in high school and started my first banking job while going to school.

Why did you decide to join a WBA committee? Why should others consider lending their time and expertise to shaping Wisconsin’s banking industry?

My supervisor asked if I would be willing to be a part of the committee in her absence if she was unable to attend.

I have found the committee to be a great resource.  It’s great to use the members to bounce ideas off of and see what they are experiencing in their areas and if they are the same issues we are seeing.  Lending your time and having our voices heard to provide feedback to our industry leaders of concerns is important in continuing to forward.

How has WBA facilitated the growth you have seen in your career and as a leader?

I have attended several WBA schools and courses: Residential Lending Committee, Residential Lending School, Consumer Lender School, Agricultural Lending School, Several (FIPCO) Software Users Conferences, and many more.

As a banker, and as a leader, what is the most important lesson that you have learned?

Change is inevitable in our industry.  Regulations, forms, software, processes, plus much more are always being altered or changed.  Learning to accept that and be open to new ways on how to adapt or change your job duties will get you further in your career.

Who (or what) motivates you to succeed?

My customers. . . I’m always working to serve them the best way possible and work hard to go above and beyond what their needs are.  I strive to be the contact for all of their banking needs.

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Committee Chair Spotlight: Mark Oldenberg

The following is a brief interview with Mark Oldenberg, president and CEO at Security Financial Bank, Eua Claire. Oldenberg is chair of the 2023–2024 Government Relations Committee.

How did you first get into the banking industry?

I always had an interest in finance. After graduating college, a family friend who worked for a local bank was able to arrange an interview for a lending position and I was fortunate enough to be hired.

Why did you decide to join a WBA committee? Why should others consider lending their time and expertise to shaping Wisconsin’s banking industry?

After a few years of attending conferences there was an opportunity to join a committee, I saw this as an opportunity to help bring resources to other bankers and build my network. Since then, I have been on several committees and have grown to recognize how WBA works to help community banking and how much the industry needs them.

How has WBA facilitated the growth you have seen in your career and as a leader?

In addition to the networking opportunities, I have had the chance to chair the GR Committee and present at the Bank Executive and Management Conferences, which have improved my leadership and presentation skills, while helping me become a better public speaker.

As a banker, and as a leader, what is the most important lesson that you have learned?

I have learned how important it is to be a good listener and the importance of good communication.

Who (or what) motivates you to succeed?

I am motivated through my experiences with both our employees and customers. Getting to be part of the accomplishments of both of these groups is incredibly rewarding.

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Committee Chair Spotlight: Shannon Grunewald

The following is a brief interview with Shannon Grunewald, loan operations officer at Waldo State Bank. Grunewald is chair of the 2023–2024 FIPCO Software Users’ Committee.

How did you first get into the banking industry?

I had just graduated from high school, working a part time job, trying to decide what I wanted to be when I grew up and an opportunity came up to work for a large bank in their post-closing department. After 14 years working in large banks, I decided that taking on a position at a small community bank was more my style. Who knew someday I would find Waldo.

Why did you decide to join a WBA committee? Why should others consider lending their time and expertise to shaping Wisconsin’s banking industry?

My supervisor at the time was ending his term on the committee and continuously expressed how important the connections he made were and how much fun he had. I loved the idea of being a part of suggesting enhancements to make all our lives easier. I now have a network of peers (I now consider friends) that I can bounce ideas off of or get suggestions for new products.

How has WBA facilitated the growth you have seen in your career and as a leader?

Ahead of the 2023 FIPCO Compliance Concierge Software & Compliance Forum this past October, FIPCO contacted me, as this year’s chair of the user committee, asking if I would be willing to do an opening speech and committee member introduction. I couldn’t say no, but as someone that has a fear of public speaking this was one of the hardest things I did this year. But the encouragement that FIPCO staff, my fellow committee members, and my coworkers showed me, made it in the end one of the easier things I’ve done.

As a banker, and as a leader, what is the most important lesson that you have learned?

That with the right people around you, anything can be accomplished. Regulations and HMDA will always be the death of me, but as long as I have a great team surrounding me, I will go on. Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life. –Confucius.

Who (or what) motivates you to succeed?

Seeing my team learn and grow. If I have shared knowledge with someone and later see them share it with another, it’s the best feeling around.

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Committee Chair Spotlight: Terry Chier

The following is a brief interview with Terry Chier, director – personal trust & estate settlement at Thrivent Trust Company in Appleton. Chier is past chair of the 2023–2024 Trust Banking Section.

How did you first get into the banking industry?

I started in commercial lending right out of college with a finance degree, working for a national transportation financing group. This eventually led to working for a national automotive captive finance company offering lending for consumers and automobile dealers alike.

Why did you decide to join a WBA committee? Why should others consider lending their time and expertise to shaping Wisconsin’s banking industry?

In my case, I joined the WBA committee to work with other trust professionals dedicated to supporting and enhancing the trust industry in Wisconsin. I wanted to network with counterparts within the industry to identify and pursue common interests.

How has WBA facilitated the growth you have seen in your career and as a leader?

I have learned an incredible amount by being part of the WBA Trust Section. Having an inside view of legislative initiatives like the Trust Code trailer bill has provided valuable insight and exposure to highly skilled trust professionals. In addition, the content of the WBA Annual Trust Conference provides timely and valuable industry knowledge.

As a banker, and as a leader, what is the most important lesson that you have learned?

That you can’t rest on your laurels. There is always room for improvement and learning. Our industry is undergoing significant changes driven by a wide variety of internal and external factors. Innovation, agility, and a client-centric approach are what is required to succeed in this environment.

Who (or what) motivates you to succeed?

Successfully helping clients carry out their wishes as stated in their estate plans and assisting subsequent generations in doing the same is a real passion for me. Learning something new every day is another motivator for me. This business consistently offers opportunities to learn and grow, which allows you to be a “go to” or value-added resource for clients and colleagues.

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