Tag Archive for: Leadership

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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.

Nominate a Banker
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Wooden framework for house
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Addressing Housing Affordability in Wisconsin

Initiatives in eastern Wisconsin help to provide workforce housing

By Hannah Flanders

In July 2023, Governor Tony Evers signed into law Wisconsin’s largest ever investment into affordable housing. The historic $525 million investment helps to bolster the state’s affordable housing initiatives and establish loan programs that aid builders and developers to expand infrastructure, spur new construction, and prompt existing home improvements.

Already, bankers across the state are committed to fostering strong communities. With Wisconsin’s recent legislation, opportunities to support unique initiatives and help ensure equitable access to housing have only expanded. Housing supply and affordability have long been a concern across the state. While rental prices and the median cost of homes steadily rise, inventory continues to be a major issue. Throughout Q3 2023, Wisconsin hovered around only 7,600 active listings. As individuals and families in Wisconsin struggle to afford what limited property is available, many — including bankers — are concerned about the impact the housing market will have on Wisconsin’s workforce.

Supporting Housing Initiatives

In a report published by Forward Analytics in September 2022, it is estimated that 130,000 individuals representing the state’s working population will leave Wisconsin by 2030. Aiding in expanding affordable housing programs across Wisconsin is not only a significant way for banks to demonstrate their commitment to their communities; banks play a critical role in stabilizing communities, attracting and retaining talent, fostering economic growth, and helping local families to begin building their generational wealth.

Workforce housing, as defined by the Wisconsin Legislative Council, is housing that requires households to spend no more than 30% of 140% of the local area’s median income. These homes are intended for individuals or families whose household earnings do not surpass 140% of the area’s median income.

Already, several banks — including Cleveland State Bank, Collins State Bank, Oostburg State Bank, and Waldo State Bank — have partnered with the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) to aid in actualizing the Forward Fund, a three-phase workforce housing project aiming to establish 600 entry-level homes in the county.

The Forward Fund was initially a $10 million investment in workforce housing spearheaded by Johnsonville LLC, Kohler Co., Masters Gallery Foods Inc., Sargento Foods Inc., and Sheboygan County. Working alongside the partnering Wisconsin-chartered banks in the area, developers are ensuring its future residents are able to access mortgages and loans that allow families to take the first step toward owning a home in Sheboygan County.

“It was in the best interest of our communities that we worked together,” notes Ben Becker, president of Collins State Bank, on the collaboration with Cleveland State Bank, Oostburg State Bank, and Waldo State Bank. “When people spend less on housing, they have more disposable income to spend on other goods and services, which can stimulate the local economies. When our community benefits, we benefit.”

With construction underway, the first project — Founders’ Pointe in Sheboygan Falls — is expected to be completed by the end of 2024 and feature 54 single-family units available for under $250,000.

“Upon completion of the project, there will be opportunities for permanent financing, and other financial institutions could get involved,” says Becker. “Several other communities are currently exploring similar projects for affordable housing, which will create additional opportunities for involvement throughout Wisconsin.”

In Washington County, leaders, employers, and workers have also expressed concern over the state of the county’s quality and stock of houses. As such, the Washington County Community Development Department established the Next Generation Housing Initiative in 2021.

With a mission to bring 1,000 new owner-occupied housing units under $420,000 by 2032, the initiative has already broken ground on two pilot developments — The Oaks of Jackson subdivision and lots 67–73 in the Skyway Park subdivision (Hartford). Between the two developments, the initiative will make 108 single- and mixed-family homes available to area residents.

Brian Heckendorf, senior vice president – director of community banking at Westbury Bank and village president of Jackson, Wisconsin, has a hand in the project not just from a banking standpoint, but as a community leader as well.

“I see this development helping various demographics from first-time homebuyers all the way to empty nesters that are looking to downsize,” Heckendorf notes. “This housing initiative will also help our local businesses fill their staffing needs better by keeping more people working and living in Washington County.”

Through Westbury Bank’s involvement in the program, several bankers helped to provide expertise as the County worked to establish guidelines for the initiative. “Working alongside a team of realtors, lenders, title companies, attorneys, and Washington County employees, our goal is to ensure that new homeowners looking to buy are able to obtain conventional loans,” adds Heckendorf.

In addition to the Forward Fund and Next Generation Housing Initiative, the Northeastern Wisconsin Housing Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Loan Program helps to address the affordable housing as well as community and economic development needs of non-urban areas of Brown, Calumet, Door, Fond du Lac, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Marinette, Outagamie, Sheboygan, and Winnebago counties.

Since 2014, the state CDBG-funded program has been administered by Brown County in order to provide 0% deferred loan payment housing rehabilitation loans to low- and moderate- income (LMI) owner-occupied households and small-scale neighborhood-oriented public facilities improvements, among other activities, to residents. Larger cities, including Appleton, Fond du Lac, and Sheboygan, receive CDBG funds directly from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Housing Provisions

While several preexisting initiatives continue to make investments in affordable housing across the state, Wisconsin’s 2023–2025 state budget also included several supplemental items in support of local workers, families, and communities that are predicted to make a historic impact across the state.

In the spring of 2023, the Workforce Housing Package was first introduced by Assembly Housing Chair Robert Brooks (R–Saukville) and Senate Housing Chair Romaine Quinn (R–Cameron) after a year of discussions between a coalition made up of the League of Wisconsin Municipalities, Wisconsin Builders Association, Wisconsin Counties Association, Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA), Wisconsin REALTORS® Association, and Wisconsin Towns Association. The package garnered bipartisan support in both the State Assembly and Senate before being signed into law. The programs then received funding as part of the 2023– 2025 state budget.

“With this package, the coalition was most concerned with spurring the development of workforce housing,” notes Brad Boycks, executive director of the Wisconsin Builders Association. “The first step in making housing in Wisconsin more accessible is providing developers with the resources to both build and remodel single- and multifamily homes.”

The 2023 Wisconsin Housing Package encompasses the following five laws:

  • Act 14: Residential Housing Infrastructure Loan Fund

Creates a residential housing infrastructure revolving loan fund and loan fund program. Both programs are administered by WHEDA and awarded to developers for the purpose of workforce or senior housing. Loans may also be awarded to the governmental unit having jurisdiction over the development.

  • Act 15: Main Street Housing Rehabilitation Loan Fund

Creates a main street housing rehabilitation revolving loan fund and loan fund program. Both programs are administered by WHEDA and awarded to the owner of single-family or multifamily rental housing for the purpose of housing rehabilitation.

  • Act 16: Local Regulation of Property Development

Addresses the judicial review of local residential development decisions; approval of permits for residential housing developments; the procedure for amending a zoning ordinance; appeal of county conditional use permit decisions; and planned development district zoning.

  • Act 17: Workforce Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program

Modifies certain parameters of the workforce housing rehabilitation loan program to expand upon the specifics — including type of rehabilitation and type of home — that are eligible for a loan. Additionally, the Act allows WHEDA to establish an interest rate (at or below market rate) for a workforce housing rehabilitation loan.

  • Act 18: Commercial-to-Housing Conversion Loan Fund

Creates a commercial-to-housing conversion revolving loan fund and loan fund program. Both programs are administered by WHEDA and awarded to the developer to cover construction costs for the conversion of a vacant commercial building to a new residential housing development that consists of workforce or senior housing.

For bankers, the 2023 Wisconsin Housing Package encourages banks to foster partnerships with WHEDA that significantly enhance the banks’ ability to assist customers in accessing these housing programs tailored to their specific needs. This collaboration not only helps banks to extend their traditional financial services by ensuring their customers are aware of the resources available to them, but bankers are also able to understand the nuances of each program and guide their customers effectively.

“While the loans provided by WHEDA are not meant to be the primary source of funding, it is important for bankers to know and understand what is included in the 2023 Housing Package in order to share the affordable opportunities with their customers,” notes Tom Larson, president and CEO of the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association. “By bridging financial gaps and offering support beyond conventional services, banks reinforce their dedication to the well-being of their customers and the communities they serve.”

Taking the Lead

As initiatives and opportunities for affordable housing emerge across the state, bankers have the unique opportunity to invest in their existing and future neighbors.

“In the last several years, many of us have experienced a very tight workforce environment while housing costs, whether renting or owning, continued to increase significantly,” says Becker. “Affordable housing directly contributes to the overall well-being and prosperity of a community, and we, as community bankers, have the opportunity and responsibility to support strategies that align with our mission to serve the needs of our communities.”

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Executive Letter: Looking Back at 2023

By Rose Oswald Poels

For many of us, the end of the calendar year is a time to pause and reflect upon all we have achieved. As a member-driven association, the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) relies on the valuable insight and active engagement of our membership. With your help, 2023 resulted in monumental success for Wisconsin’s banking industry and reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to our members.

A top priority for the Association has long been advocating for fairness between banks and credit unions, and this year — with the help of many bankers — WBA led the historic step towards parity. The unprecedented state tax law provides all banks (C-corp and S-corp) with an income tax deduction beginning in 2023 on income earned from commercial loans for business or agricultural purposes of $5 million or less where the borrower resides, or is located, in the state of Wisconsin. It is because of the grassroots advocacy and political engagement of unified bankers that we see such success.

In addition, WBA has continued to support and educate bankers as they serve communities throughout the state. In 2023, WBA developed a range of consumer resources for banks to utilize, made available new best practice resources informed by WBA committee and section members, offered opportunities — such as peer groups and an employee resource group — for bankers to connect and share ideas, and provided a wide range of in-person and virtual educational programs. These initiatives are just a handful of the ways WBA stands to benefit bankers in Wisconsin, and without the participation of our membership to inform and shape them, our Association would be nowhere near as relevant nor impactful.

As always, thank you for your continued involvement in and support of the WBA; I am grateful to work alongside so many individuals who take extensive pride in promoting Wisconsin’s banking industry and the financial success of communities across the state. In turning the page on yet another accomplished year, I — and the dedicated team at WBA — look forward to what is in store for our Association, our industry, and our communities in the year ahead. I wish you all a happy and successful New Year!

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Challenged to Grow

By Tisha Kenfield

Meeting with other bankers at networking events I heard the term “accidental banker” used often and it really resonated with me. I did not grow up or go to school intending on going into the banking industry, but after falling into it I can’t imagine doing anything else. I applied for a position as a teller as a way to get out of the world of retail sales, looking for something with consistent hours and the opportunity for me to grow. When I first started, I didn’t fully understand how much depth there was in the world of banking, that it was more than just opening checking accounts and cashing checks.

I was lucky enough though to find myself working on a team and in a company that supported me and encouraged me to learn as much as possible about every aspect of banking as well as grow personally to be prepared to take the next step in my career. Without a bank and managers who believed in my potential and invested in my future, I would never have taken the first steps into building a career in the banking industry.

One constant through my five and a half years in banking was the encouragement to take on challenges that were outside of my comfort zone, with the first being networking. I have always considered myself introverted so the idea of representing my bank in a room of people much more experienced than myself was terrifying. But when I was asked to take over our branch’s spot in a local Helping Businesses Build Assets chapter as I moved into a personal banker position, I said yes.

Not having any experience with business networking, still being in my mid 20’s, and going into a room of established business owners was leaps and bounds outside of my comfort zone. It ended up being an amazing experience that helped me become more confident in not only my networking abilities, but my communication skills as well.

It took quite a few meetings to gain my footing, voice, and confidence in that room but it allowed me to open up to the possibility of other networking and leadership activities I would not have considered myself qualified for in the past. Being young and not having the professional and leadership experience I considered to be required to enter those spaces, it was eye opening and empowering to be thrown into it and understand I was able to hold my own.

As I have moved into different roles in the branch, taking on more responsibility and leadership, the impact of having connections both internally and externally was clear. Joining an internal emerging leaders group has given me opportunities to learn and grow with my colleagues and create connections across departments and regions that I may not interact with on a regular basis.

Every opportunity I have been given to grow as a leader and expand my network has taught me different lessons and helped me grow different parts of myself personally and professionally. The one that has been most impactful has been attending my first two Building Our Leaders of Tomorrow (BOLT) Summits and joining the BOLT Section Board. Being in a room with like-minded bankers who were there to learn and grow and collaborate left me energized and ready to take on new challenges.

Through all of those opportunities the consistent driver was a manager and colleagues who believed in me and pushed me to take steps that I may not have considered myself ready for, but they knew I could handle. I will forever be grateful for entering the world of banking with a company that emphasized growth and provides opportunities for both internal learning as well as encourages continued education and networking externally. Without those factors I would not be where I am today or have the confidence and drive to continue to grow in my career in the banking industry.

If I could go back and give advice to my younger self, or anyone just starting out in banking, it would be to research and partner with your manager to take advantage of every opportunity your company offers to help yourself grow. Whether it is continuing education, joining emerging leaders groups, job shadowing, or taking advantage of networking opportunities, being present and learning from others around you can be career-changing. I had limits set for myself on what I thought was capable of, but each new experience has extended those limits and challenged me to grow.

Kenfield is assistant branch manager at North Shore Bank in Appleton and member of the 2023–2024 BOLT Section Board.

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Chair’s Column: Inspiring Resilience and Prosperity

Upcoming events empower bankers in their service to Wisconsin

By Donna Hoppenjan

As the last several years have demonstrated, the future is becoming increasingly difficult to predict. Yet, individuals, families, and businesses across Wisconsin look to their local bankers as experts and beacons of stability to lead them through uncertainty. Standing ready to assist its members in serving their communities, the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) remains committed not only to providing the resources and support necessary to navigate the challenging times, but also to illustrating the opportunities on the horizon.

The last several years have seen rising interest rates and ongoing recessionary fears, bringing the health of our economy to the forefront of our collective consciousness. For many, these challenges underscored the key role that bankers play in guiding their communities towards financial stability and growth. Looking ahead to the new year, our neighbors will turn to us for our interpretation of economic data and guidance on trends that we will likely see. Along the way, WBA will continue to empower bankers with resources and opportunities to inspire resilience.

One way in which the membership can be sure to remain abreast of our unique economic environment is by attending the Association’s Midwest Economic Forecast Forum. The Forum, which will be held on January 11, 2024, is presented in partnership with several other Midwestern banking associations and is focused specifically on providing an opportunity
for bankers across the Midwest to hear from nationally renowned experts on what opportunities and challenges are expected in the next 12 months.

The 2024 Forum will again be held virtually, and banks are encouraged to invite staff, business customers, directors, and any others interested. More information — including individual and group rates — will be available at wisbank.com/econ.

Additionally, Wisconsin’s largest gathering of bank leaders — the WBA Bank Executives Conference — is right around the corner, February 7–9, 2024. This premier event, which will once again be held at the Kalahari Convention Center in Wisconsin Dells, will feature several general and breakout sessions, banker-only peer groups and other networking opportunities, an extensive exhibit hall, and two award ceremonies.

The unifying theme of the 2024 event — “Inspire” — underscores the dedication and commitment of the over 30,000 bankers across the state to Wisconsinites. Serving as trusted financial advisors
and community builders, bankers in Wisconsin continually inspire progress and prosperity in the lives of those they serve. During this year’s event, I am excited to not only celebrate our achievements throughout the last year, but also to join my peers in harnessing the power of inspiration to navigate the evolving banking landscape, lead with resilience, and ignite positive change in our communities.

These annual events are not just an opportunity to gain knowledge and connections; they are a reminder to each of us of the profound impact banking has on the people and places we call home. I hope that you will join me at either — or both — of these upcoming events to enhance your team’s knowledge for the benefit of Wisconsin’s banking industry.

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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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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

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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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BOLT Winter Leadership Summit
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Developing Your Passions

By Landon Turner

Working in the banking industry brings me great joy because I get to wake up every day, knowing that I have a small part in helping businesses thrive in our community. Every business has different values and needs to continue expanding their mission into their community. It’s my job to figure out how we can partner together to live out that mission and continue reinvesting those dollars back into our community. It’s a beautiful cycle.

One of the best pieces of advice I received early on in my career was to get involved early.

As I look back over the last six years in banking, I am reminded how we have people who come into our lives at critical moments to support us in reaching our goals and believing in ourselves.

A critical moment in my life was taking a leap of faith switching majors halfway through my college career, from mechanical engineering to finance. To be honest, I felt like a failure for not finishing what I thought was my big dream, while wasting time and money. But with the help of my mentors, continuous prayer, and those closest to me, I realized something shocking — I was chasing a dream my dad had for my life, not my own.

This moment is when my faith and my community, helped create a path that was well beyond my own understanding.

Everything changed when I took that leap of faith into finance. It created a fire inside my heart to strive for excellence in the work I do, the relationships I build, and the unlimited opportunities I saw for myself.

However, when I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance and economics, a career in banking was not in the forefront of my mind. While at Grand Canyon University in a Servant Leadership class, I met my wife. I was born and raised in Arizona; she was from a small town in Wisconsin. Their connections within their community are what helped me land my career in business banking at a community bank in Sheboygan.

Fast forward six years, I have been able to serve at some great organizations in Wisconsin, simply by showing up and getting involved early. Here is what getting involved early has done for my personal and professional development.

I just celebrated four years at Oostburg State Bank, currently serving as a business banking officer. Oostburg State Bank has been instrumental in my professional development through their support and recognition in our community. Our team has been recognized as the SBA Volume Lender of the Year for the past three years, based on our asset size.

My wife and I have been serving as Youth Group Leaders at our local church for the past four years. I have been blessed to see one of my first students now lead a new ministry at our church focused on young adults. I also currently serve as deacon treasurer, where my team and I track giving and forecast our annual budget for the year.

Another opportunity I have been given, is my involvement in BOLT (Building Our Leaders of Tomorrow). I currently serve as vice chair of the board of directors for the BOLT section. The Wisconsin Banking Association’s (WBA) BOLT Section is focused on education, advocacy, and networking for the next generation of bank leaders. Through my involvement in this organization, I have found leadership to be another passion of mine. Our world is in desperate need of strong leaders that are willing to stand firm in their beliefs and guide their team to success.

Everyone has a different definition of success, for some that could mean providing a comfortable lifestyle for their family, for others it could mean building a business from the ground up. For me, if I can see daily improvements in my life; if I am better today than I was yesterday, that is success for me. Success is never complete; it is a continuous process that I work on every day with the decisions I choose to make. BOLT stands to practice muscles for leadership. I compare it to working out in the gym; if you are not routinely in the gym and putting in the work, you will never reach the results you intended to see. If you are not consistently practicing your leadership or learning new skills, you will not become the leader you or your team needs.

I also currently serve as chair for the Young Professionals Committee at the Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce. Our team helps plan and coordinate events throughout the year for the goal of professional development, volunteerism, and social engagement with the members and businesses of Sheboygan County. I cannot thank the Sheboygan Chamber enough for the opportunities they have presented me to serve others and help me grow in my own professional career.

I am grateful for my past experiences and the people who supported me to take that leap of faith that forever changed my life. Make sure you are developing and learning something you are passionate about, not what others think you should be passionate about.

Turner is business banking officer at Oostburg State Bank and vice chair of the 2023–2024 WBA BOLT Section.

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Executive Letter: Nominate an Outstanding Leader for the 2023 Banker of the Year

By Rose Oswald Poels

Bankers across Wisconsin go above and beyond as leaders in our communities. To celebrate these outstanding efforts, the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) is proud to honor one individual each year with the distinguished WBA Banker of the Year award.

This tradition, spanning 37 years, recognizes individuals who demonstrate remarkable service efforts over their career to both their bank and community. From promoting economic development, inclusion, and affordable housing, to providing financial education and protecting customers against fraud, there are many ways in which bankers stand out as exceptional leaders. Beyond their banks, they are known for their volunteerism and service to nonprofit organizations making an impact in their local areas. They are also known as advocates for their industry and the people they serve.

Last year’s Banker of the Year, Greg Lundberg of Fortifi Bank in Berlin, exemplifies the dedication of bankers across the state through his commitment to his bank, the industry, and various community initiatives. Greg and the many committed bank leaders across the state who have received this recognition in the past all have remarkable stories to tell about their experiences and achievements. As such, the Association is excited to open nominations for the 2023 Banker of the Year award and to hear of the unique commitment other Wisconsin bankers have to their communities and the industry.

Bankers are encouraged to nominate themselves, or another qualified banker, for this prestigious honor now through Friday, December 8, 2023. The award, which recognizes a current (or recent past) president/CEO of a Wisconsin-based, WBA-member bank, will be presented during a ceremony at WBA’s annual Bank Executives Conference on Thursday, February 8, 2024.

While the Association recognizes only one banker per year, yet receives many qualified recommendations, those who have previously nominated a banker who has not yet been honored are encouraged to do so again this year. Without a doubt, bankers in Wisconsin are an inspiration to their communities and fellow bankers. It is humbling to recognize the Banker of the Year, and I look forward to sharing their story with our membership.

Nominate a Banker
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questions@wisbank.com

608-441-1200

4721 S Biltmore Ln.
Madison, WI 53718

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