July/August Wisconsin Banker

Wisconsin Banker

New WBA Chair: Alvaro (Al) Araque

By Katie Reiser

June 5 marked the beginning of Alvaro (Al) Araque’s term as Chair of the Wisconsin Bankers Association’s (WBA) Board of Directors. Araque has been with Johnson Financial Group since 2021 and serves as SVP, director of consumer, private, and business banking.

“During my five years on the Board, I have witnessed the incredible impact WBA has on the banking industry,” he said.

The theme for his term is "impact,"and he is determined to encourage more members to use the resources and support offered by WBA to magnify that impact. “One of the easiest ways to amplify our impact is to participate in the many programs or services WBA has to offer,” he noted. That participation can come in many forms: viewing webinars, attending WBA conferences, calling the Legal Team, tapping into the helpful content on WBA’s website, serving on committees, or providing financial literacy education in your community.

Check Use Down, But Check Fraud on the Rise

By Katie Reiser

Despite the global shift away from checks to other forms of noncash payments, check fraud is surging. The Federal Reserve’s annual "Diary of Consumer Payment Choice" revealed that consumers used checks for only 3% of payments. Yet the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) reported a staggering increase in check fraud with over 680,000 suspicious activity reports (SARs) filed in 2022 — up from 350,000 in 2021.

Scott Birrenkott, Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) director – legal and staff liaison for the WBA Financial Crimes Committee, noted a substantial rise in member inquiries about check fraud, indicating an escalating concern within the banking community. “It’s one of the most frequent calls we get, and it's risen quite significantly to the point where we're getting several calls a week on the topic,” Birrenkott said.

After the board installation ceremony, Araque met with WBA staff to share his background, workplace priorities, and gather insights from employees; clearly demonstrating his emphasis on listening and exchanging ideas.

Araque’s main priorities at work are people — both colleagues and customers — and performance. He believes involvement in WBA can help with both. Investing in people through professional development and education will positively impact their performance and that of their financial institutions.

“I prioritize effective communication and focus on relationships before tasks,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of truly listening to understand, as opposed to listening to respond.

“When you really take the time to listen to understand, you are in a better position to make a difference.”

He credits Al Ritter’s book “The 100/0 Principle: The Secret of Great Relationships” for some of his own growth. “In a 100/0 relationship, we take 100 percent responsibility for the relationship without expecting anything in return,” he said.

Continued on pg. 15

Growth During the Pandemic

The U.S. Department of Treasury reported that check fraud has increased nationwide by 385% since the pandemic. Check fraud spiked during the pandemic partly due to the widespread mailing of government relief checks. Criminals exploited the overwhelmed U.S. Postal Service (USPS), with FinCEN reporting a huge surge in mail-targeted fraud. FinCEN and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) joined forces to identify red flags to help financial institutions detect, prevent, and report suspicious activity connected to mail theft-related check fraud.

Birrenkott also noted fraudsters grew bolder in general during the pandemic, stating that, “during the pandemic, there was a lot more online activity, and fraudsters pursued ways that they could exploit this fact, a trend which has continued.”

Mail Fraud Flourishes

Mail theft, particularly involving the theft and misappropriation of USPS "arrow keys" — the master keys that

Continued on pg. 8

Amplifying the Impact of WBA

By Al Araque

It was my honor to be installed as Chair of WBA’s Board of Directors on June 5 at the WBA office, and welcome our newest Board members and thank those who finished their terms for their service.

During the installation ceremony, we were also able to express gratitude to outgoing Chair Donna Hoppenjan, president and CEO of Mound City Bank in Platteville, for her dedication to WBA and the banking industry. Donna’s focus during her term was an appeal to members to be the inspiration for the future of the industry. It was clear from the staff reports in the Board meeting following the ceremony which cited increased member engagement, that her goal was achieved.

It is both gratifying and humbling that my career trajectory has led me to Wisconsin and WBA. When I moved to Wisconsin with my family in 2014, we immediately fell in love with the state and are happy to call it home. I was drawn to my current role with Johnson Financial Group in 2021 because of founder Samuel C. Johnson’s commitment to our communities and always putting people first — associates and clients alike.

As I was contemplating the focus for my term, the word "impact" resonated with me. Our work is not just about the transactions we facilitate, it is about the lives we touch. Every loan we approve helps a business grow, every mortgage we provide helps a family find a home, and every financial literacy program we offer empowers individuals to take control of their future. These actions ripple through our communities, fostering growth, stability, and opportunity.

I was proud when a former Chicago customer tracked me down years later to thank me for helping him establish a 529 account for his daughter which enabled him to pay for her college education. I realized that was just a single example of our industry’s impact. WBA represents over 30,000 bankers in Wisconsin and we all have those powerful stories.

There is even more we can do to amplify our impact, especially when we take advantage of the numerous opportunities WBA has to offer. Whether it is exchanging ideas in WBA Committees and Sections, in the Employee Resource Group or Peer Groups; or participating in the annual Power of Community Week, together, we can reach more community members, achieve greater outcomes, and make lasting impressions.

I am fortunate to begin my term with positive momentum. The foundation built by my predecessors will serve me well as I work to strengthen engagement and inspiration among WBA members. The theme of impact implies a change in people’s lives, and my goal for myself and for WBA is to leave our industry better tomorrow than it is today. I am looking forward to achieving that goal together.

This is your Association. Like WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels, my door is always open. We encourage communication from members. WBA was established over 130 years ago and has been witness to the constant evolution of the banking industry. As the industry adapts and pivots to be there for customers, so does the Association. Your involvement is vital.

Araque is SVP, director of consumer, private, and business banking with Johnson Financial Group, Racine, and the 2024–2025 WBA Chair.

Each Bank Is Unique … Your Counsel Should Be

Too

There are 4,614 banks in the country.1 The breadth of issues facing those banks vary greatly, as do the resources each bank has at its disposal. Community bankers deserve legal counsel that takes into account the specific needs, goals and ambitions of each individual bank – counsel that consistently delivers sophisticated, yet practical legal advice tailored to your particular situation.

While we work with dozens of community banks throughout the country, and can leverage that

Melissa Y. Lanska 414.298.8706 mlanska@reinhartlaw.com reinhartlaw.com

experience and perspective for you, we understand that the challenges and opportunities facing your bank are frequently unique to you.

At Reinhart, our dedicated attorneys function as a seamless extension of your management team, working alongside you to help solve even the most complex situations facing your financial institution. In many instances, it’s not just providing legal advice, but leveraging our network of contacts to serve your needs. It’s what we call Partnering in Possibilities™.

1

New Wisconsin Law Regarding Financial Exploitation of Vulnerable Adults

By Scott Birrenkott

A new law was passed this legislative session, which creates the concept of an authorized contact list. The law authorizes a financial service provider (hereafter referred to in the context of “banks”) to contact certain individuals when it reasonably suspects financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult.

For purposes of this new law, vulnerable adult means an adult at risk, as defined in Wis. Stat. § 55.01(1e), or an individual who is at least 65 years of age. A bank may offer to its vulnerable adult customers the opportunity to submit and periodically update a list of persons that the vulnerable adult authorizes the financial service provider to contact when the bank has reasonable cause to suspect that the vulnerable adult is a victim or a target of financial exploitation.

Financial exploitation has the meaning given in s. 46.90(1)(ed), which is the section of law that allows for banks to voluntarily report financial exploitation to

a County Elder-Adult-at-Risk Agency if a bank suspects financial exploitation of an elder adult at risk person. For example, those same scenarios with which a bank may report pursuant to a memorandum of understanding.

When a bank has reasonable cause to suspect that a vulnerable adult customer is the victim of financial exploitation, it may contact any of the following persons:

• Any person on the List of Authorized Contacts, if a list has been provided by the vulnerable adult.

• Any co−owner, additional authorized signatory, or beneficiary on the account of the vulnerable adult.

• Any person known by the financial service provider to be a family member, including a parent, spouse, adult child, or sibling.

The new law gives the bank the option to contact, or not contact, any person on the list. It also gives the option to disclose, or not disclose, any information as it deems appropriate. Furthermore, banks receive protections under the law when acting in good faith to decide to contact, or not contact, someone on the list.

A Full-Service Partner You

Banks should consider whether any existing procedures need be modified given the new law, including to determine if and when a list of authorized contacts is to be used, when such list should be updated by customers, identify how to monitor or recognize that an account has a list on file, and to establish what steps frontline staff should take to alert management, the BSA officer, or other staff of a particular situation for further review and determination of next steps.

The new law, Wisconsin Financial Exploitation of Vulnerable Adults, 2013 Wisconsin Act 132 may be found at: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2023/related/ acts/132.pdf

Additional information can also be found in the May edition of the WBA Compliance Journal. If you have any questions regarding the new law, please contact WBA legal at wbalegal@wisbank.com or call us at 608-441-1200.

Birrenkott is WBA director – legal.

By Lorenzo Cruz

It has been a tremendously successful biennial session for WBA’s Government Relations team. We passed and signed into law all our budget and legislative priorities: an income tax exemption (tax parity), financial institutions modernization, trust code update, and elder fraud protection.

The income tax exemption on commercial loans of $5 million or less is estimated to save the industry almost $60 million over a biennium. Wisconsin is the first state to have this type of groundbreaking law, blazing a trail for other states to follow. We also defeated or neutralized legislation harmful to the industry: environmental, social governance (ESG), merchant category code (MCC), interchange, and privacy.

Our advocacy efforts have grown significantly, with over 180 advocacy officers and record attendance at WBA’s Capitol Day in Madison, where 210 attendees joined us. It was great to see Governor Evers (D-WI) addressing a filled room of bankers for the first time on Capitol Day. Following his address, members met with legislators and staff at the capitol to discuss WBA’s top priorities.

With the legislative session over and legislators now on the campaign trail, the WBA Government Relations team is focusing on monitoring

WBA

Advocacy in Action

developments in the fall races, engaging members on advocacy efforts, attending fundraisers, and planning for the next legislative session. Wisconsin remains a key battleground state for the upcoming state and federal races. The new Supreme Court’s liberal majority ruled the GOP-drawn legislative maps were unconstitutional, forcing the GOP-controlled legislature to pass the Governor’s version of the maps.

The new legislative district maps have paired incumbents in primaries, forced legislators to run in new districts, or run for a different legislative body, and spurred on retirements.

Currently the GOP has a supermajority in the state senate (22–11) and a majority in the state assembly (64–35), two seats short of a supermajority. With the new maps, GOP majorities in both houses will shrink. Four seats in the state senate and a dozen in the state assembly are in play. The GOP is likely to remain in control but a big margin of victory at the top of the ticket could have an effect down ballot as could a single issue moving voters. It’s too early to tell what undecided voters will do. Wisconsin remains ground zero for elections and will continue to see hundreds of millions spent for control of the state legislature and Congress.

Highlighted is a Get out the Vote link provided in partnership with the

American Bankers Association; you can learn more about the candidates and the fall elections. Your vote and engagement with pro-banking legislators at a grassroots level can significantly impact future legislative decisions affecting the banking industry.

As we plan for the next session, we welcome any legislative ideas from members. This fall, we will meet with WBA’s Government Relations Committee to identify key budget and legislative priorities for the next session. Please contact Tyler or me with your suggestions.

Thank you again for supporting WBA’s advocacy efforts. It makes a difference and amplifies our unified voice.

Cruz is WBA vice president – government relations.

Get out the Vote!

Visit the American Bankers Association’s site, secureamericanopportunity.com, click 'Vote 2024,' and select WI.

• See if you are registered to vote.

• See which candidates will be on your ballot.

• Find your polling locations.

You will find a toolkit for banks to share with employees to promote voter participation.

Welcomes New Associate Member

Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) Associate Members serve as an invaluable resource to our bank members, and their commitment is evidenced by a membership renewal rate of 98% in 2024. Thank you to the 163 current Associate Members for their continued support of WBA and the Wisconsin banking industry. Joining WBA as a new Associate Member is:

ICI Consulting

Founded in 1994, ICI Consulting is the most widely selected community bank advisor nationwide. Serving nearly 600 financial institutions with over 1,100 consulting engagements, ICI supports its clients by providing core processing assessments, vendor evaluations, contract negotiation and conversion services. ICI has assembled a team of successful former core processing vendors and bank executives who share a passion for assisting clients in achieving their corporate goals.

Specialties: Consulting Services, Information Technology/Cybersecurity

Location: Sullivan, WI

Phone: 262-617-7576 | Email: kevin.mehl@ici-consulting.com | Website: www.ici-consulting.com

WBA Women in Banking Conference Celebrates Record Attendance

WBA’s Women in Banking Conference was back and bigger than ever in its 18th year, with over 300 attendees (including more than two dozen tuning in via livestream) representing 58 banks.

Women bankers came together not only for networking and professional development, but also for a good cause — namely, the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation’s mission to promote financial literacy and capability. Through the generosity of nine prize donors and 165 raffle participants, more than $3,500 was raised to benefit the Foundation.

Thank you to the organizations that donated raffle prizes:

• Bank of Prairie du Sac

This year's event on April 17, 2024, featured over four hours of presentations, including a keynote by FDIC's Nikita Pearson, deputy to the chairman for external affairs and director, Office of Minority and Women Inclusion (pictured right, top); and a panel of Wisconsin bankers (pictured below, center) — Kristi Hansen, SVP operations, Nicolet National Bank; Roxi Maier, SVP, CFO, COO, Bank of Prairie du Sac; Sarah Oberthaler, SVP, CAO, Citizens Bank; and Kathy Strasser, COO, CIO, Incredible Bank — moderated by Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO.

• Bell Bank

• Community First Bank

• FIPCO

• Lake Ridge Bank

• Nicolet National Bank

• Peoples State Bank, Wausau

• Wilderness Resort

• WBA Insurance Services

• Wisconsin Bankers Association

Innovation at the Forefront of WBA Agricultural Bankers Conference

added up to over seven hours of presentations, in addition to opportunities for peer networking with over 130 attendees and exploring the exhibit hall.

Conference attendees also participated in a raffle to support the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation. In an effort to grow the industry's talent pipeline, the Foundation offers two $1,500 scholarships annually to Wisconsin college students who are pursuing careers in agricultural banking. The raffle raised $1,245 thanks to the generosity of seven prize donors and 55 raffle participants. Prize donors included:

Apple River State Bank

Bell Bank

Citizens State Bank of Loyal FIPCO

Nicolet National Bank

weather patterns to farm operations to government policy. This information

• WBA Insurance Services

• Wisconsin Bankers Association

Check Use Down, But Check Fraud on the Rise

Continued from pg. 1

open USPS blue collection boxes — has become rampant. The USPS has even warned against mailing checks, advising that if you must mail checks, drop them off at a Post Office.

Dave Oldenburg, vice president of financial investigations at Tri City National Bank and vice-chair of the WBA Financial Crimes Committee, stressed how easily criminals can access mail and commit fraud. “Things that we once thought were safe, like the blue U.S. Post Office receptacles, no longer are. We're now looking at an epidemic of those stolen arrow keys, which allows the fraudsters the perfect opportunity to get into the mail, where they start rummaging around,” Oldenburg said.

Detectives Gwen Ruppert and Michelle Viney of the Dane County Sheriff’s Office are veteran fraud investigators who often advise community groups and businesses on fraud prevention. “Don't put payments in your mailbox at the end of the driveway or on the outside of your building. Take them to the Post Office or use a P.O. box number, so that mail doesn't sit in your mailbox,” Viney advised. She also cautioned businesses against leaving outgoing mail in accessible areas like office lobbies and strongly recommends treating all business mail as if it contains cash.

Impact of Technology

Technological advancements have made check fraud easier to commit.

Debby Bartolerio, chief operating officer at First Citizens State Bank and WBA Financial Crimes Committee member, recalled simpler times when fraudulent checks were harder to produce. “When I was a teller in the 1980s, we learned to look for drawn signatures because photocopies and facsimile signatures weren’t a thing. Now with color copiers, scanners, and checks being moved via image instead of physically transported back and forth, we really don't have any good way of telling if a check is authentic,” Bartolerio said.

Detective Ruppert echoed this sentiment, explaining how the internet and increased computer access have facilitated check washing, allowing fraudsters to alter checks easily. “People can now smoothly take out the payee or the amount and then easily just reprint your check, and it looks like the original signature,” Ruppert explained. She added that matching check stock can be easily found online, making it simpler for criminals to create legitimate-looking checks.

Oldenburg also noted the relative simplicity of check washing. “They’ll just take that routing number and the account number, get basic check stock at Office Depot, and then give those counterfeit checks to various runners who open accounts at financial institutions,” he said.

Business Accounts at Higher Risk

Business accounts are prime targets for check fraud due to their higher transaction volumes, larger check amounts, and heftier account balances. Birrenkott emphasized the importance of using bank-provided fraud protection tools such as positive pay, fraud protection software, and fraud alerts.

“We see the most significant check fraud on the business side,” Birrenkott said. “That's not to say there isn't consumer check fraud, but what we most commonly see is that somebody will get a hold of a business's checks, fraudulently represent themselves as the business, and start cashing items as though they're that business.”

Importance of Vigilance and Customer Education

Oldenburg stressed the necessity of businesses reconciling their accounts daily. Proactive monitoring can prevent fraud from escalating. “There's nothing worse than a situation where the business may not have looked at that check and it's been five or six days,” he said. “Gone are the days of reconciling your accounts monthly. Customers should be in the habit of reconciling their accounts daily; partnering with their financial institution to make sure that if something is wrong, it can

be corrected and that check can be returned.”

Positive pay is a highly effective tool, but Oldenburg warned that fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated. “Fraudsters continue to be savvier, so in conjunction with the service, we recommend that they still reconcile the accounts,” he said. Oldenburg described business impersonation tactics where bad actors create counterfeit checks payable to similarly named businesses, which are fraudulently registered with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions to avoid detection. Vigilant monitoring, particularly of new and unfamiliar endorsements by regular customers, is crucial to detecting and combating these tactics.

Empower Staff and Assure Customers

Ruppert highlighted the importance of frontline staff asking for ID and verifying customers' identities despite potential discomfort. “I know it feels bad for someone to ask a customer standing in front of them or someone who purports to be the customer, for ID. But it’s important to make sure it’s a legitimate Wisconsin ID, compare the picture and make sure it's actually that person,” she said.

Ruppert and Viney have countless examples of criminals using IDs stolen from cars and homes with the goal of using those IDs to commit financial fraud. Criminals will recruit a “money mule” (often a homeless or indigent person) who may vaguely look like the photo on the ID and instruct them to negotiate the check at a financial institution.

When financial institutions are clear about Know Your Customer (KYC) protocol to employees and empower frontline staff to ask questions, Ruppert shared, “you're actually helping to protect your client.” Customers may not always see it that way and can find questioning annoying and intrusive. However, educating customers about the risks of fraud and the reasons behind security measures can help them understand the necessity of these precautions. “It's to protect them, their finances, and

all of their neighbors who are also falling victim,” Ruppert pointed out.

Collaborate, Communicate, and Educate

Fraud-fighting groups like Financial Crimes Investigators (FCI) in South Central Wisconsin and Wisconsin Association of Fraud Investigators (WAFI) in the Milwaukee area, and IAFCI at the international level, provide forums for financial institutions, government agencies, and law enforcement to share alerts and best practices. Jack Femyer, executive director of FCI, praised the value of information sharing in preventing fraud. “I think one of the best things for banks is our alerts which notify banks of potential fraud and theft attempts by bad actors in the area or state to help minimize loss,” Femyer said.

“Fraud prevention is all about information and teamwork,” echoed Birrenkott. In addition to timely email alerts, FCI meets in person every other month, inviting speakers to share strategies and best practices.

Oldenburg stressed the value of participation in anti-fraud groups and involvement with WBA, noting that there is always something new to learn. The WBA Financial Crimes Committee has worked diligently with WBA staff to create helpful resources for fraud prevention, available in the Best Practices Library on the WBA website, wisbank.com. “I encourage financials to be involved because there's just a lot of knowledge that comes to the table,” Oldenburg said.

When Other Banks Call, Answer

WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels recently shared a comprehensive list of available resources to fight check fraud with members. In her Executive Letter, she noted that check fraud is top of mind for banks across the state. Oswald Poels pointed out that it can be frustrating when another bank in the chain is not responding in a timely fashion. Bartolerio and Oldenburg also stress the importance of helping fellow bankers.

“If you get that phone call, respond to the questions because we're in this together to stop the fraudsters from getting the money. Working together is the only way we're going do that,” said Bartolerio, who went on to add, “knowing the other security officers at local smaller community banks is helpful. And if you do get someone that's helpful at a big bank, be sure to keep their name and phone number because you might not get that same person again.” Bartolerio also finds the American Bankers Association’s Check Fraud Claim Directory useful.

Oldenburg said, “I really encourage people that if somebody calls and they have a fraud problem to be receptive to that.”

Reassuring Victims

Victims of fraud often feel embarrassed and isolated. Victims overcome by shame may not realize how prevalent fraud is. That embarrassment can cause victims to isolate themselves. However, sharing that information may prevent a neighbor, friend, or family member from being the next victim.

Sharing experiences can help prevent others from becoming victims. “We don't want people to feel bad about this because [the criminals] are very practiced; they're making their living on it and unquestionably [this fraud] is supporting small governments and terrorist organizations in Africa and the Eurasian continent, with some of this money going to cartels in Mexico,” Ruppert said.

Fighting Fraud Together

Despite the rise of fraud, the industry is prepared to stay one step ahead of the fraudsters. “It’s important to stay on top of fraud trends, and always remain vigilant,” Birrenkott offered. “Take advantage of tools, resources, and technologies where available. Provide information and tips to your customers. The more likely they, and staff, can spot fraud, the more likely you’ll be able to stop it.”

Reiser is WBA writer/editor.

FinCEN, in coordination with USPIS, has identified red flags to help financial institutions detect, prevent, and report suspicious activity connected to mail theft-related check fraud, many of which overlap with red flags for check fraud in general.

• Non-characteristic large withdrawals on a customer’s account via check to a new payee.

• Customer complains of a check or checks stolen from the mail and then deposited into an unknown account.

• Customer complains that a check they mailed was never received by the intended recipient.

• Checks used to withdraw funds from a customer’s account appear to be of a noticeably different check stock than check stock used by the issuing bank and check stock used for known, legitimate transactions.

• Existing customer with no history of check deposits has new sudden check deposits and withdrawal or transfer of funds.

• Non-characteristic, sudden, abnormal deposit of checks, often electronically, followed by rapid withdrawal or transfer of funds.

• Examination of suspect checks reveals faded handwriting underneath darker handwriting, giving the appearance that the original handwriting has been overwritten.

• Suspect accounts may have indicators of other suspicious activity, such as pandemic-related fraud.

• New customer opens an account that is seemingly used only for the deposit of checks followed by frequent withdrawals and transfer of funds.

• A non-customer who is attempting to cash a large check or multiple large checks in-person and, when questioned by the financial institution, provides an explanation that is suspicious or potentially indicative of money mule activity.

WBA Welcomes New Board With Installation Ceremony

Meet the 2024–2025 WBA Board of Directors

On June 5, 2024, the Wisconsin Bankers Association carried on a longstanding tradition of formally installing the Board of Directors. The Board, WBA staff, and guests gathered at the WBA headquarters in Madison, and members across the state tuned in to the ceremony via livestream. WBA wishes to thank all who have served on the Board, past and present, for lending their time and expertise in service to Wisconsin’s banking industry.

Alvaro (Al) Araque, SVP, director of consumer, private, and business banking, Johnson Financial Group, has been elected to serve as the 2024–2025 Board Chair of the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA).

“We are very pleased to welcome Al Araque as Chair of the WBA Board,” said Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO. “Al’s extensive industry experience, coupled with his unsurpassed enthusiasm, will no doubt have a positive impact on our organization, the banking industry, and the communities we serve.”

Araque joined Johnson Financial Group in 2021, bringing over two decades of banking experience with him. He earned his bachelor’s degree in economics and minor in studio art at Denison University in Granville, Ohio. Araque’s community

involvement includes serving on the boards of the Penfield Children’s Center, Hispanic Professionals of Greater Milwaukee (HPGM), and Employ Milwaukee Financial Advisory Board.

Also serving as officers on the WBA Board are: Chair-Elect Paul Northway, president and CEO, American National Bank – Fox Cities, Appleton; Vice Chair Joe Peikert, president and CEO, Wolf River Community Bank, Hortonville; and Past Chair Donna Hoppenjan, president and CEO, Mound City Bank, Platteville.

WITH THE

BIG DOGS COMPETE

Joining the Board for three-year terms are: Shane Ilstrup, president, Citizens First Bank, Trempealeau; Jimmy Kauffman, president and CEO, Bank of Sun Prairie; Todd Nagel, president and CEO, IncredibleBank, Wausau; and Tim Schneider, president and CEO, Bank Five Nine, Oconomowoc.

Those continuing their terms on the Board are: Kelly Heroux, president and CEO, Peshtigo National Bank; Paul Hoffmann, president, Lake Ridge Bank, Middleton; Shay Horton, president and CEO, Cumberland Federal Bank; Ryan Kamphuis, president and CEO, Bristol Morgan Bank, Oakfield; Greg Lundberg, president and CEO, Fortifi Bank, Berlin; Tom Mews, president, First National Community Bank, New Richmond; Anthony Nguyen, Eastern Minnesota/ Wisconsin/Chicago regional bank director, SVP, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Milwaukee; and Bill Sennholz, CEO, Forward Bank, Marshfield.

Board members who completed their terms in 2023–2024 are Dan Peterson, executive chairman, The Stephenson National Bank & Trust, Marinette; Jay Mack, president and CEO, Town Bank, N.A., Hartland; Greg Ogren, president and CEO, Security Bank Shares, Inc., Iron River; and Dan Ravenscroft, president and CEO, Royal Bank, Elroy.

Learn more at wisbank.com/about/board-of-directors.

Pictured is the 2024–2025 WBA Board of Directors. Seated (left to right) are: Rose Oswald Poels Tim Schneider Paul Northway Al Araque Donna Hoppenjan Joe Peikert, Ryan Kamphius. Standing (left to right) are: Shane Ilstrup, Todd Nagel, Bill Sennholz, Kelly Heroux, Shay Horton, Greg Lundberg, Anthony Nguyen, Jimmy Kauffman. Not pictured are; Paul Hoffmann and Thomas Mews

Thank You For Your Leadership

WBA welcomes 2024–2025 Committee, Section Chairs June 1 marked the new term for WBA’s committees and sections, resulting in a changing of the guard in the officers in those groups. Our committees and sections are comprised of banker volunteers who provide perspective on issues affecting the industry, ideas for new products and services, and input on existing WBA offerings. We would like to thank the outgoing chairs of our committees and sections (listed below) for their service in leading their respective groups.

2023–2024 Outgoing Chairs:

Agricultural Bankers Section Board:

Craig Rogan

Vice President – Agricultural Banking Officer

Nicolet National Bank, Stevens Point

BOLT Section Board: Meredith Strieff

Vice President – Customer Experience

Horicon Bank

FIPCO Software Users Committee:

Shannon Grunewald

AVP Loan Operations

Waldo State Bank

2024–2025 Incoming Chairs:

Government Relations Committee:

Mark Oldenberg

President and CEO

Security Financial Bank, Eau Claire

Human Resources Committee: Candy Allard

Assistant Vice President –

Human Resources Specialist

Badger Bank, Fort Atkinson

Marketing Committee:

Grace Bruins

Assistant Vice President – Marketing Horicon Bank

The following banker volunteers will lead the Association’s committees and section boards for the 2024–2025 fiscal year:

Mortgage Lending Committee:

Mara Hird

Assistant Vice President – Residential

Relationship Manager

Peoples State Bank, Prairie du Chien

Retail Banking Committee: Amanda Emery

Assistant Vice President – Marketing and Human Resources

Farmers & Merchants Union Bank

Columbus

Ag Bankers Section Board:

Jeff Wilke

Vice President – Ag Banking Bank First, Denmark

BOLT Section Board: Ryan Boebel

Senior Vice President – Chief Credit Officer

Community First Bank Richland Center

Financial Crimes Committee: Theresa Weckwerth Chief Risk Officer Fortifi Bank, Berlin

FIPCO Software Users Committee:

Sharon Lloyd

Vice President Retail Lending/ Loan Operations Manager

Community First Bank, Rosholt

Government Relations Committee:

Josh Marron

President and Chief Banking Officer

Park Bank, Madison

Human Resources Committee: Tammy Nelson

Senior Vice President – HR & Culture Officer

Community First Bank Boscobel

Marketing Committee:

Lauren Moran

Director of Marketing

Wolf River Community Bank Hortonville

Mortgage Lending Committee:

John P. Moniak , CRCM

Assistant Vice President –Compliance Bank of Deerfield

Retail Banking Committee: Jeffrey Saxton

Vice President – Retail Group Leader

Peoples State Bank, Wausau

Technology/Operations Committee:

John White, Jr. (continuing his term)

Vice President/IT Director Forward Bank, Marshfield

Trust Section Board:

Julia Hanlon, JD

Vice President Senior Personal

Trust Officer – Wealth

Management Division

Lake Ridge Bank, Monona

Putting your institution’s best foot forward for a lower-rate environment

By BOK Financial Capital Markets

After transitioning from near-zero rates to one of the fastest rate-hiking cycles we’ve ever seen, financial institutions are now in the position of waiting for rates to fall. As we wait for the Fed’s next move, it’s important for management teams to understand how lower rates will impact their institutions’ income statements and take steps to better position themselves for the lowerrate environment likely to come.

Many financial institutions funding their balance sheet short

First, let’s consider where we are now. Federal and consumer spending have been driving economic growth, despite the higher interest rates. This growth, in turn, has the markets thinking the Fed will delay rate cuts until later this year or possibly into 2025.

Funding short has not yet worked out, with funding continuing to roll at nearly the highest cost on the curve. Coupled with continued deposit migration within the bank, cost of funds is continuing to rise at many institutions.

Managing expectations for rate cuts

Investment portfolio conundrum

Some institutions may have decided that they’re not taking any risk by accumulating cash. However, we challenge that thought: If the Fed starts cutting rates and your institution doesn’t get a meaningful and immediate COF improvement, your institution’s earnings on that cash are going to drop immediately. And so, institutions that are asset-sensitive or holding cash today need to consider the immediate margin compression that could occur once the Fed starts cutting rates. In the meantime, locking into investments closer to cash rates today can help hold yield until the COF starts to decline. A balanced investment strategy could allow your institution to add a mix of securities that average a yield close to Fed Funds with an allocation to call-protected assets. We urge management teams to consider the trade-off of investing in only the highest yield options compared to the potential benefits of adding assets with call protection that could result in an unrealized gain when the Fed lowers rates. Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that repeating the past is unlikely, but it’s still essential to learn from it. Understanding the choices that your institution made, and then making informed decisions is how your institution can and will put its best foot forward.

Kent Musbach is a senior vice president and Marc Gall is a senior vice president and asset/liability strategist for BOK Financial Capital Markets.

To manage margin this year, one question to ask is if your institution will need to offer the highest interest rate in the market for deposits or one that’s “just close enough” to that rate to keep existing customers. We find that, if the rates are close enough, the incumbent tends to win because consumers don’t want to deal with the hassle of moving their money. This strategy may allow your institution to manage the upward pressure in cost of funds (COF). Additionally, management teams may consider what realistic reprieve in COF may come from the first few Fed cuts. Many institutions have not raised non-maturity account rates in line with non-bank alternatives (ex. money market mutual funds). Consequently, community banks may be reluctant to reduce rates on these accounts, as they will still be below alternate funding costs. Contact BOK Financial Capital Markets at 866-440-6514 to discuss the latest economic outlook and timely considerations. We can help guide a unique, well-conceived strategy that considers many variables and potential outcomes.

And the Annual Scenes of Wisconsin Photo Contest Winners Are. . .

There’s still time to order your 2025 calendars!

The winning photographs for the WBA 2025 Scenes of Wisconsin calendar have been chosen! A panel of five judges reviewed more than 275 image submissions and selected 12 striking pictures to be featured on each month and one photo for the cover of the calendar next year. Each photo submitted for the contest was captured in Wisconsin by a Wisconsin banker, their family member, or a bank customer. The winning photographers for the 2025 calendar are:

• Cover: Tom Mortenson, Neva – Marathon Savings Bank

• January: Christopher Davis, Wisconsin Dells – Bank of Wisconsin Dells

• February: Duane Gatzke, Danbury – Community Bank

• March: Lisa Rosinsky, Manitowoc – Bank First National

• April: Tyler Stamper, Madison – Bankers’ Bank

• May: Michael DeWitt, Apostle Islands – Northern State Bank

• June: Ralph Curtis, Hartland – Waukesha State Bank

• July: Kirstyn Folgert, Phillips – Peshtigo National Bank

• August: Sarah Hudzinski, Green Lake – Fortifi Bank

• September: Kay Capek, Cornell – Northwestern Bank

• October: Joan Langenohl, Egg Harbor – BMO Harris Bank

• November: Steve Lenz, Wausau – Associated Bank

• December: Deb Warren, Ferryville – Associated Bank

If you are looking to add some scenic views to your marketing lineup, consider placing an order for the high-quality, cost-effective 2025 Scenes of Wisconsin calendar. You can learn more about the calendar and place your order at wisbank.com/scenesofwi. Orders are due August 15, 2024!

WBA Announces Staff Changes

The Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) is pleased to announce several staff changes and promotions within the organization. As a result of a reorganization of the Education Department to better align resources with the Association's strategic goals, several staff members have been promoted with new job titles and responsibilities, effective June 1, 2024.

Lori Kalscheuer has been promoted from the position of director – education to senior director –education.

Nick Loppnow, who most recently served as director – associate membership and business development has a new title and job responsibilities as director – business development and education.

Miranda Gustafson has been promoted from assistant director – education to manager – education and business development.

Katie Reiser has been promoted to the position of writer/editor. She worked as an administrative specialist for the legal and education departments.

WHEDA Launches New Financing Tools

Partners With Developers, Municipalities, and Employers to Increase Housing Opportunities

By Raechelle Belli, WHEDA public affairs program manager, and Samantha R. Linden, WHEDA legislative liaison

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) is dedicated to helping our workforce, families, and seniors find a home. Our legislative priority was creating and advocating for a housing package to help Wisconsin thrive by expanding affordable housing choices.

In 2023, WHEDA’s Legislative Program team facilitated unprecedented advocacy work on a package of proposals called the Bipartisan Workforce Housing Package. Democrats and Republicans united to address Wisconsin’s affordable housing crisis. Governor Tony Evers signed the $525 million package into law in June 2023 to help expand access to safe, affordable housing.

WHEDA administers the four loan programs created by the new legislation. This funding will significantly impact the construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing for rent and ownership in Wisconsin. Public and private partnerships between municipalities and developers will leverage both groups’ expertise and financial resources, as was the intent of the legislation.

The four programs created by this legislation help fund infrastructure investments, housing units above main street buildings, converting vacant commercial buildings into housing, and rehabilitating and repairing older housing stock.

Infrastructure Access Loan ($275 million) – allows a residential housing developer to apply for a loan to cover the costs of installing, replacing, upgrading, or improving public infrastructure related to workforce housing or senior housing.

Restore Main Street Loan ($100 million): This loan allows an owner of rental housing to apply for a loan to cover the costs of improving housing located on the second or third floors of an existing building with commercial space on the ground level.

Vacancy-to-Vitality Loan ($100 million) – allows a developer to apply for a loan to help cover the cost of converting a vacant commercial building to workforce housing or senior housing.

Home Repair and Rehab Loan (Home R&R Loan) ($50 million) – provides up to $50,000 loans to homeowners who own a house at least 40 years old to repair and/or rehabilitate their home.

To learn more about these new WHEDA loan programs, visit wheda.com.

Two programs, Restore Main Street and Vacancy-To-Vitality, soft-launched last fall. The first $3 million in awards, announced on January 31, 2024, supported the creation of over 300 units in three developments in Dane and Waukesha counties. All three awards were for the Vacancy-to-Vitality program, which helps developers cover the cost of converting a vacant commercial building to housing.

The Infrastructure Access Program opened in March 2024, and applications closed on April 30. WHEDA also opened Restore Main Street and Vacancy-to-Vitality for a second round of applications. In the summer of 2024, WHEDA will announce funding awards for all three loan programs.

WHEDA is currently developing the Home R&R program, which enables property owners to access up to $50,000 to improve Wisconsin’s aging single-family, owner-occupied housing stock. Repairs and rehabilitation actions could include removing lead paint, asbestos, mold, or other environmental contamination or repairing or replacing flooring, interior walls, ceilings, or plumbing. This new loan will be available in the fall.

Advocating for housing requires the support of many. WHEDA joined many advocates to create and introduce the Bipartisan Housing Package and thanks its partners for their tremendous support of this legislation to help increase housing inventory and lower housing costs.

“By taking complete ownership without expecting reciprocity, you’ll find it (unexpectedly) comes back to you two-fold.”

Originally from Hoboken, New Jersey, Araque graduated from Denison University in Granville, Ohio, with a Bachelor of Arts in economics and minor in studio art. A counselor suggested managing an art museum, which clearly was not what Araque ended up pursuing.

What ended up being his next move was the gratifying work he found helping customers reach their financial goals as a universal banker at a First Chicago NBD branch inside a Dominick’s grocery store.

Araque almost became a financial advisor but opted to pursue management at local and national levels spending nearly 23 years with the bank that ultimately became JP Morgan Chase. His career trajectory with Chase had him frequently crossing the country opening branches and working on relocations and consolidations. As national director of in-stores, his portfolio had an impressive 400 branches. He was later drawn to Johnson Financial Group because of their culture of integrity, commitment to customers, and presence in the community; priorities that shape his work.

The Araque family moved to Wisconsin in 2014 and quickly fell in love with the state. While Araque remains loyal to east coast teams like the Giants and Yankees, he has

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become a fan of the Bucks. He is clearly proud of his family. His daughter is studying marketing at Long Beach State, and his son, who recently graduated high school, will be studying theater at the University of Minnesota. In his installation speech, he thanked his wife Christina and the spouses/partners of WBA Board members for their support. “We could not do this without their encouragement,” he said.

Araque often describes the ripple effect banks have in their communities and encourages members to get involved in WBA’s Power of Community week. He is actively involved in his community, serving on the boards of the Penfield Children’s Center, Hispanic Professionals of Greater Milwaukee (HPGM), and Employ Milwaukee Financial Advisory Board.

Not afraid to step outside his comfort zone, Araque relayed a story about representing Johnson Financial Group in the Milwaukee’s Stars Merengue event in 2021. As a brand-new employee, he won the mirror ball trophy in this Dancing With the Stars-inspired competition and helped raise $700,000 for Cristo Rey Jesuit High School.

Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO, shared a colleague’s description of Araque as “sunshine coming into a room.” Oswald Poels praised his unsurpassed enthusiasm and approachable nature. That enthusiasm, coupled with his extensive industry experience, will help amplify WBA’s reach across the state.

Reiser is WBA writer/editor.

Bulletin Board

News from Wisconsin Bankers Association Members

Promotions and New Hires

Appleton

First Business Bank has announced the promotion of Travis Froze (pictured) to president - Northeast Wisconsin Market.

Brookfield

North Shore Bank is pleased to announce that Jim Ebben (pictured) has joined the company as vice president of commercial banking. North Shore Bank is also excited to announce three recent promotions.

Maria Baumer (pictured) has been promoted to the new role of vice president, senior business relationship manager. Dee Patel (pictured) has been promoted to vice president and district manager for the bank's East Region, which includes offices in Milwaukee and Ozaukee counties. John Krostag (pictured) is now the community bank’s new senior vice president, chief credit officer.

Fond du Lac

National Exchange Bank & Trust announced the promotion of Kimberly Klaetsch (pictured) to vice president/business & private banking.

Ixonia

Ixonia Bank is pleased to announce that Steve Clark (pictured) has joined the team as senior vice president and director of treasury management.

Madison

First Business Financial Services, Inc., parent company of First Business Bank, is pleased to announce the promotion of Brad Quade (pictured) to executive vice president and chief credit officer. First Business Bank welcomed two new employees to its subsidiary, First Business Specialty Finance, LLC. Kyle Bergeron (pictured) as president – equipment finance and Kristen Palmer (pictured) as vice president and a business development officer in its Accounts Receivable Financing group.

Manitowoc

Bank First announced the addition of Mike Vaughan (pictured) as senior vice president – business banking and Pete Gobis (pictured) as vice president – deposit operations.

Milwaukee

Johnson Financial Group announced the appointment of Evamarie Schoenborn to the role of president of Johnson Wealth, Inc.

Tomahawk

Crossbridge Community Bank is proud to announce the promotion of PJ Childers as the new president of Crossbridge Community Bank, Crossbridge Mutual Holding Company, and Crossbridge Financial Inc. Childers succeeds Kathy Rankin, who retired after 46 years with Crossbridge.

Announcements

Brookfield

North Shore Bank is proud to recognize five mortgage professionals who have been awarded the coveted Five Star Mortgage Professionals industry designation. The five professionals (pictured) work across the Racine, Kenosha, Brookfield, Muskego, and Burlington offices.

Holmen

Congratulations to WNB Financial on their 150th anniversary. Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO, was on hand for this milestone celebration.

Madison

The Board of Trustees of the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin–Madison (GSB) announced that Paul C. Katz (pictured) has been selected as the next GSB/Prochnow Educational Foundation (PEF) president and CEO. Katz succeeds Kirby Davidson, who plans to retire on December 31, 2024. Katz began as president on June 1, 2024, and assumes the role of CEO upon Davidson’s retirement.

Capitol Bank’s Board of Directors is pleased to announce the next phase of its internal leadership transition plan. Ken Thompson transitions from CEO to executive chairman of the Board. Justin Hart succeeds Ken Thompson as Capitol Bank’s third chief executive officer. Ami Myrland has been promoted to president and chief financial officer.

Pam Kelly (pictured), president –FIPCO, celebrated 35 years of service in May 2024.

Nick Loppnow (pictured), director –business development and education had his ten year anniversary at WBA in May 2024.

Oconomowoc

Bank Five Nine has been awarded the 2024 Top Workplace honor by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel for the 15th year in a row. This award is particularly meaningful because it is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage LLC.

and CEO; and Amber Lillge, human resources specialist.

Superior Congratulations to Superior Savings Bank for serving their community for 100 years. Originally the State Building Loan and Savings Association of Superior, Superior Savings Bank began in March 1924. Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO, presented a 100-year anniversary plaque to Dawn Staples, president of Superior Savings Bank, on behalf of the WBA to commemorate this achievement.

Oregon

One Community Bank proudly announced its recognition as one of the top Small Business Lenders in 2023, as listed in In Business Madison magazine. This recognition highlights OCB’s dedication to supporting local entrepreneurs and economic growth within local communities.

Pictured front (left to right) are: Steve Luebke and Nik Sendelbach Back (left to right): Mary Rose, Robin Tegel, and Susan Liedel.

Pictured (left to right) are: WNB

Financial President and CEO David Vaselaar, WBA President and CEO

Rose Oswald Poels, and WNB

Community President – Holmen

Dave Justus

Pictured (left to right) are: Ken Thompson, Ami Myrland, and Justin Hart.

Pictured (left to right) from Bank Five Nine are: Lynell Meeth, talent development director, AVP; Rob Reynolds, SVP, human resources director; Tim Schneider, president

Pictured (left to right) are: Rose Oswald Poels and Dawn Staples

Ebben Baumer Patel Krostag Klaetsch Clark Quade

Bergeron Palmer Vaughan Gobis Katz

Kelly Loppnow

Froze

Bulletin Board

News from Wisconsin Bankers Association Members

Celebrating a Lifetime of Service

WBA is proud to recognize the individual bankers who dedicate their service to our industry and their community. The 50- and 60Year Clubs recognize bankers who have served in the banking industry for 50 and 60 years, respectively. Additionally, WBA’s Lifetime Service Awards recognize bankers who have served in the industry for between 30 and 49 years. To recognize a banker for the esteemed honor, please visit wisbank.com/ServiceAwards.

Horicon Bank

Rose Metke was presented a Lifetime Service Award for 48 years in the industry and congratulated on her recent retirement from her role as a commercial loan assistant with Horicon Bank. Pictured (left to right) are: Rose Petitte, retail branch banking, SVP, Horicon Bank; Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO, and Rose Metke.

First Community Bank, Milton

The Lifetime Service Award presented to First Community Bank Chairman of the Board William Albright was in recognition of his 36 years of dedication and selfless service to the customers and communities he has served.

Pictured (left to right) are: Bill Albright and WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels

Dairy State Bank, Menomonie

Cindy Close, who will soon be celebrating her retirement, was recognized for her long service to the banking industry with WBA's Lifetime Service Award. Close served 36 years at Dairy State Bank. Pictured (left to right) are: Clark Yolitz, CEO, Dairy State Bank, Stacy Medin, President Menomonie area, Dairy State Bank, Cindy Close, and WBA Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff Daryll Lund

Horicon Bank

Horicon Bank’s Sharon Kirsh received a WBA Lifetime Service Award in honor of her 44 years in banking. She will soon be celebrating her retirement. Sharon started as a credit analyst and ran the loan department for several years before moving to compliance and being promoted to SVP/chief compliance and CRA officer. Pictured (left to right) are: Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO, Sharon Kirsh, and Fred C. Schwertfeger, Horicon Bank president.

Intercity State Bank, Schofield

Corey DeBauche, a bookkeeper with Interstate State Bank was presented a Lifetime Service Award to celebrate her 30 years in the banking industry. Pictured (left to right) are: Randy Balk, president and CEO, Intercity State Bank, Corey DeBauche, and Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO.

Horicon Bank, Menomonee Falls

Ellen Fura from Horicon Bank’s Menomonee Falls office was congratulated on her 40 years in the banking industry and recent retirement. Pictured (left to right) are: WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels and Ellen Fura.

See more good news about Wisconsin’s banking industry, including recent hires, staff achievements, and community involvement at wisbank.com.

Have news you’d like to share? Please complete the submission form at wisbank.com/bulletin.

Milestones in Industry Service

Diane Petrie celebrated 35 years at National Exchange Bank & Trust.

Joanie Wilcox celebrated 40 years First National Bank of Bangor.

Sharon Nellessen celebrated 30 years of service at National Exchange Bank & Trust.

Valeen (Val) Pluim celebrated 40 years of service at National Exchange Bank & Trust.

Wisconsin Bankers Foundation Awards Four $2,000 Scholarships

Four promising Wisconsin students have been recognized for their academic and financial acumen, receiving the prestigious 2024 Wisconsin Bankers Foundation (WBF) Spring Scholarship. These students — Mariana Gamez Garza (Fort Atkinson High School graduate attending UW– Whitewater), Melanie Gauger (Citizens State Bank, Mukwonago, employee attending UW–Whitewater), Ian Mouw (Three Lakes High School graduate attending UW–Madison), and Nicholas Szczech (Stanley–Boyd High School graduate and Northwestern Bank, Chippewa Falls, employee attending UW–Eau Claire) — were awarded $2,000 each to support their higher education pursuits within the state.

The WBF Spring Scholarship, offered by the non-profit arm of the Wisconsin Bankers Association, is open to graduating high school seniors and current college students in Wisconsin. The scholarship emphasizes academic achievements, community involvement, career goals, and financial literacy. A special thank you to the members of the WBA Retail Committee for serving on the scholarship selection committee. For more information on the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation and its annual scholarships, please visit wisbankfoundation.org.

Pictured (left to right) are: Cassandra Krause, WBF executive director; Mariana Gamez Garza, WBF Spring Scholarship recipient; and Kathy Rolfs, VP/chief marketing & communications officer, PremierBank, Fort Atkinson.

Pictured (left to right) are: Cassandra Krause, WBF executive director; and Ian Mouw, WBF Spring Scholarship recipient.

Pictured (left to right) are: Jerry Jacobson, president and CEO, Northwestern Bank, Chippewa Falls; Kristina Szczech, branch lead teller, Northwestern Bank, Chippewa Falls; Nicholas Szczech, WBF Spring Scholarship recipient; and Cassandra Krause, WBF executive director.

WBF Excellence in Financial Education Awards

Submission Deadline for Bank

(left to right) are: Jeffrey Standafer, president and CEO, Citizens Bank, Mukwonago; Cassandra Krause, WBF executive director; Melanie Gauger, WBF Spring Scholarship recipient; and Sarah Oberthaler, senior vice president – chief administrative officer, Citizens Bank, Mukwonago.

and Individual Awards is July 31, 2024

Bankers involved in financial education are encouraged to submit summary forms at wisbankfoundation.org/financialeducation-awards. By sharing your efforts with the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation (WBF), you will help WBF to track the collective impact of Wisconsin's banking industry, inspire others to volunteer, and have the opportunity to be recognized with a WBF Excellence in Financial Education Award. Awards will be presented at the WBA FLEX Retail and Marketing Summit on November 21, 2024, in Wisconsin Dells.

Thursday, September 12, 2024 5:30–9:30 p.m.

Wisconsin Historical Society 816 State Street, Madison, WI 53706

Tickets: $150/individual or $1,000/group of eight wisbankfoundation.org/gala

Pictured

YEAR IN REVIEW

President's Message

This was a landmark year for Wisconsin’s banking industry. Our major advocacy win — achieving a state tax exemption on certain agricultural and business loans under $5 million — was a testament to the perseverance of Wisconsin Bankers Association members over many years. It is energizing to see the many tangible ways our industry benefits when we work together as an association.

It is our goal at WBA to serve our state’s banks and bankers as the “goto” resource for advocacy, education, and products and services. I am proud to say that WBA earned a “Top Workplaces” distinction from the Wisconsin State Journal this year, which reflects the dedication of our staff to the highest levels of positivity and professionalism. Just like our members, WBA staff is committed to the success of the banking industry and to the prosperity of the Wisconsin communities we call home.

Thank you for your membership in WBA. The people are truly what make all the difference; your support and active involvement ensure that our institutions will continue to be pillars of thriving communities.

Outgoing Chair’s Message

Over the past year, we, as an association, have focused on a theme of “inspiration.” Whether it be getting involved in advocacy, taking advantage of educational opportunities to grow your expertise, or promoting careers in banking to support our industry’s talent pipeline — this “Year in Review” makes it clear to see that WBA members felt the spark and got involved.

As I look ahead to my retirement, I am confident that the next generation of bankers is in a strong position to continue the success of our industry. I hope those who continue in this profession find as much enjoyment and fulfillment as I have had. Thank you to WBA for the honor of serving as Chair and for your steadfast support of Wisconsin’s banking industry.

Donna Hoppenjan 2023–2024 WBA Chair

Mound City Bank, Platteville, President and CEO

Our Mission:

We actively advocate for, educate, and support our members to help them positively impact the Wisconsin communities they serve.

Rose Oswald Poels WBA President and CEO

41 35

banks earned WBA’s Gold Triangle Award, our highest level of recognition for bank fundraising, apportioned by bank asset size.

banks earned the Bankers Involved in Grassroots and Government (BIGG) Award, WBA’s highest achievement level for bank involvement and advocacy.

183 $244,627

banks designated Advocacy Officers, who serve as government relations points of contact for their banks.

in contributions were given by WBAmember employees, directors, and others to WBA’s political action funds: Wisbankpac and the ABW political conduit.

11 74 210 79

bankers earned the Leadership Circle Award for contributing at least $3,000 to Wisbankpac, ABW, or issue advocacy funds.

earned the Silver Triangle Award for contributing at least $1,000 to Wisbankpac, ABW, or issue

members attended WBA Capitol Day in Madison, and 30 attended a Washington, D.C. trip.

candidates and four legislative party candidate committees – on both sides of the aisle – at the state level received support from WBA political action funds.

69 14 10 40

bills are currently being tracked or monitored by WBA of the 2,342 bills introduced in the State Legislature during the 2023–2024 legislative session.

2,172

Legal Call Program calls were answered, a 3% increase over the last fiscal year.

5

WBA legislative priorities or WBAinfluenced bills were introduced during 2023–2024 legislative session.

comment letters were submitted on behalf of the membership. press releases were issued.

6,055 80 406 5 3,1

attendees took part in WBA-hosted training events.

educational opportunities were hosted by WBA.

bankers completed a multi-day WBA School or Boot Camp.

complimentary member webinars were offered in 2023–2024.

30 videos were produced. advocacy funds.

Three Legal Live and one Advocacy Live events were hosted, and the monthly WBA Compliance Corner was produced, receiving over 100 views each month.

89

CEOnly/CFOnly questions were moderated.

3,000 6 255 92 200

Careers in Banking events were held on five UW campuses, reaching more than 200 students.

YEAR IN REVIEW SUPPORTING

banks and savings institutions are members of WBA, representing 97% of banks in the state.

members belong to the Building Our Leaders of Tomorrow (BOLT) Section.

members belong to the Employee Resource Group (ERG) for bankers from underrepresented backgrounds, and seven complimentary virtual ERG meetings were held.

users follow WBA on LinkedIn, 1,640 on Facebook, and 2,154 on X.

million in annual savings was achieved with the WBA Association Health Plan through United Healthcare.

banks completed over 4,000 benefit transactions through the WBA-EBC benefits portal.

community banks were helped by Midwest Bankers Insurance Services (MBIS) with complex insurance renewal negotiations, internal control guidance, best practices, coverage education, and policy placement. United Healthcare.

loan applications totaling a requested $195,000,000 were submitted via FIPCO ConnectFI — a customer-facing digital lending SaaS that integrates with Compliance Concierge.

ShareFI provided services to 39 WBA members, representing 72 engagements. Banks saved over $400,000 with ShareFI’s compliance officer (and other roles) services to reduce their personnel expenses. Eleven banks improved and/or maintained CMS ratings with their primary regulator with ShareFI support.

WBA members benefited from FIPCO InfoSecurity and IT Audit engagement services, representing over 100 engagements.

individuals and 38 organizations supported the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation through donations and participation in auctions and raffles at the WBA Bank Executives Conference ($10,825), WBA Agricultural Bankers Conference ($1,245), and WBA Women in Banking Conference ($3,500).

banks participated in one or more FIPCO software training sessions. banks participated in the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation’s Reading Raises Interest program, giving Teach Children to Save Day presentations in elementary school classrooms and donating 2,220 copies of the book "A Boy, a Budget, and a Dream" by Jasmine Paul.

in grants was awarded by the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation to two nonprofit programs: Asset Builders’ Finance and Investment Challenge Bowl and St. Marcus School’s community engagement financial education. applications were submitted for Wisconsin Bankers Foundation scholarships, and $11,000 was awarded to six recipients. branches of 57 banks participated in the WBA Power of Community Week, hosting service events across the state.

163 Associate Members provided quality products and services to WBA members and had a 98% retention rate. For a complete list, please visit wisbank.com/ associates.

Platinum Associate Member

• FHLBank Chicago

Gold Associate Members

• Bankers’ Bank

• BMO – Correspondent Banking

• BOK Financial Capital Markets

• FIPCO

• Godfrey & Kahn, S.C.

• ICBA Services Network

• WBA Insurance Services

Silver Associate Members

• Bell Bank

• Cinnaire

• Locknet – An EO Johnson Company

• Performance Trust

• UFS LLC

• Wipfli LLP

Bronze Associate Members

• ADVANTAGE, powered by JMFA

• Arctic Wolf Networks

• American Security & Privacy

• BHG Financial

• Boardman & Clark LLP

• Delta Dental of Wisconsin

• Eide Bailly LLP

• Executive Benefits Network (EBN)

• Jefferson Wells

• Northland Securities, Inc.

• Plante Moran

• Quad City Bank & Trust

• Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren S.C.

• SHAZAM

• Spectrum Investment Advisors

• The Baker Group

WBA Members Advocate in D.C. During WBA/ICBA Capital Summit

Hill visits to meet with Wisconsin’s Congressional delegation are critical to the industry’s broader success on the Wisconsin Bankers Association’s (WBA) federal legislative agenda. Hearing directly from constituents about the impact legislation has on your bank’s customers as well as your bank is both impactful and necessary to augment the messages WBA shares on behalf of our members.

The issues the group of 18 Wisconsin bankers lobbied on in conjunction with ICBA from April 28–May 1 mirror those that WBA and 12 Wisconsin bankers discussed during the WBA/ABA Washington Summit March 18–20. These issues include the ACRE Act, the “trigger lead” bill, ILC loophole, CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act, and the SAFER/ Safe Banking Act. WBA is very pleased that the pro-banking bills noted above include co-sponsors from the Wisconsin delegation thanks to the broader active grassroots involvement of all of you, and the in-person engagement of those bankers meeting with our elected officials. For example, after our March banker visit in Washington, D.C., with Rep. Mark Pocan’s office, he added his name as a co-sponsor to the ACRE Act. Also after that visit, Rep. Glenn Grothman added his name as a co-sponsor on two bills.

Thank you to the members who attended the WBA/ICBA Capital Summit this year on behalf of Wisconsin’s banking industry:

• Dave Feldhaus, Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago

• Brooke Frehse, The Stephenson National Bank & Trust, Marinette

• Mike Gargaro, Citizens First Bank, Trempealeau

• Jeff Gruetzmacher, Royal Bank, Lancaster

• Kelly Heroux, Peshtigo National Bank

• Paul Hoffmann, Lake Ridge Bank, Middleton

• Donna Hoppenjan, Mound City Bank, Platteville

• Shay Horton, Cumberland Federal Bank, F.S.B.

• Shane Ilstrup, Citizens First Bank, Trempealeau

• Ryan Kamphuis, Bristol Morgan Bank, Oakfield

• Sue Loken, Lake Ridge Bank, Middleton

• Paul Northway, American National Bank Fox Cities, Appleton

• Greg Ogren, Security State Bank, Iron River

• Michael Olson, The Bank of Brodhead

• Dan Peterson, The Stephenson National Bank & Trust, Marinette

• Lonnie Przybylski, International Bank, Amherst

• Dan Ravenscroft, Royal Bank, Elroy

• Kevin Ravenscroft, The Peoples Community Bank, Mazomanie

• Julie Redfern, Lake Ridge Bank, Verona

Attendees visited Capitol Hill during the WBA/ICBA Capital Summit. Summit attendees spoke with Rep. Mark Pocan (D–District 2).

Wisconsin bankers met with Rep. Bryan Steil (R–District 1).

WBA Announces $50,000 in Housing and Economic Development Grants

The Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) is pleased to announce that five grants of $10,000 each have been awarded to support housing and housing literacy, economic development/ community investment, and financial or cyber literacy in Wisconsin.

“Affordable housing and housing literacy are acute needs for individuals and families in our state and are critical drivers for our economy’s workforce needs,” said Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO. “We are proud to offer this inaugural grant opportunity, which showcases the partnership of Wisconsin banks and non-profit organizations to strengthen programming that empowers Wisconsinites to become financially capable, promotes homeownership, and builds wealth that can be passed on to future generations.”

The selected projects include:

• Columbia Savings and Loan Association, Milwaukee, plans to present homeownership workshops and related financial literacy sessions to individuals in their market. In addition, qualified lowand moderate-income borrowers may receive downpayment assistance.

• Community First Bank, Boscobel, plans to develop/distribute educational/ promotional resources to benefit individuals across its footprint in Southwest and South Central Wisconsin with a focus on current and prospective homeowners in rural areas. Such resources could include video content on topics such as credit repair strategies and steps to homeownership. The bank may also offer educational events to help consumers more fully understand the housing market and the steps required to purchase and maintain a home.

• Peoples State Bank, Prairie du Chien, plans to provide a three-part community education series and one-to-one counseling sessions in partnership with Couleecap, Inc, a community action and United States Department of Housing

and Urban Development (HUD) counseling agency.

• Premier Community Bank, Marion, plans to host financial education events in English and Spanish — including presentations, videos, and supplemental materials — focusing on housing counseling/homeownership opportunities, fraud prevention, and cyber literacy. This outreach is geared toward elderly, financially challenged, and low- to moderate-income community members.

• Waldo State Bank will support Consumer Credit Counseling Service — a non-profit organization with HUDaccredited and National Foundation for Credit Counseling-certified counselors — in providing the Open the Door Homeownership (ODHO) program.

The grant funding will drive awareness of the ODHO homebuyer education classes through radio, print media, etc. to underserved and marginalized populations, provide a manual to participants (available in English, Hmong, and Spanish), and offer one-toone counseling.

Engaging the Next Generation of Customers

By Ashley Clemons

In today's banking landscape, capturing the attention and trust of younger generations — specifically Millennials and Gen Z — is crucial for the sustained growth and relevance of community banks. This tech-savvy group not only represent a significant portion of the consumer market but also bring unique expectations and preferences to their banking experiences. To effectively engage and attract Millennials and Gen Z, try focusing on these important topics:

Understanding Their Needs and Preferences

Millennials and Gen Z value convenience, transparency, and digital accessibility in their banking interactions. They expect seamless digital experiences in all aspects of their everyday life, including their banking services. Offering user-friendly mobile banking apps, online account management tools, and responsive customer service channels are great ways to fulfill this expectation.

Educational Content and Financial Literacy Initiatives

Younger generations appreciate banks that go beyond transactional relationships by offering valuable educational resources and promoting financial literacy. Try differentiating by creating content that educates Millennials and Gen Z about financial planning, budgeting, and saving strategies. Hosting workshops or webinars on topics like student loans, homebuying tips, how to budget effectively, or investing basics can establish credibility and build trust among this demographic.

Innovative Banking Solutions

Offering innovative banking solutions tailored to the needs of younger generations can set banks apart.

Features such as mobile check deposit, chat features, peer-to-peer payment, and automated savings tools appeal to Millennials and Gen Z who prioritize convenience and efficiency.

Building Trust and Credibility

Trust is vital for Millennials and Gen Z when choosing a financial institution. Build trust by maintaining transparent communication, prioritizing data security, and delivering on promises made in marketing campaigns. Positive online reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers can further bolster credibility to attract this group of consumers.

Digital Engagement and Social Media Presence

Leverage your social media platforms and digital marketing channels to engage Millennials and Gen Z effectively. Regularly updating social media profiles with relevant content, customer testimonials, and community involvement highlights can enhance brand visibility and attract younger customers who are active on these platforms. Engaging with followers through interactive posts, polls, and Q&A sessions is a great way to create a sense of community and responsiveness.

Experience, Expertise + Engagement

Client-driven solutions for community banks.

We are seasoned community bankers, helping banks more efficiently manage risk and internal work processes for successful long-term strategic growth. We tailor our solutions to your unique business needs with a hands-on approach so you can focus more internal resources on revenue generation and enhancing shareholder value in an increasingly complex and competitive industry.

Credit Administration + Operational Support

• Credit analyst + Underwriting

• Commercial loan typing + Processing

• Loan Reviews

• CECL guidance

• Commercial loan annual reviews

• Risk rating + Policy guidance Compliance

• Compliance officer support

• Risk assessments + Audits

• BSA/AML reviews

• CRA guidance

• Staff + Board training

• Program policy + Procedures implementation/reviews

Kelly W. George

CEO (906) 286-1445 kgeorge@maccreditcomp.com

Tammy McDowell President + COO (906) 286-0808 tmcdowell@maccreditcomp.com

Scott Alexander SVP + Director of Compliance (920) 750-4020 salexander@maccreditcomp.com

Clemons is VP – marketing at The Peoples Community Bank and member of the 2024–2025 WBA Marketing Committee.

Preparing for the Future of Compliance

By Jeff Schmid, CRCM

It has been five years since FIPCO started the ShareFI services, and things have come a long way in compliance management. No sooner did our Shared Compliance Officer and consulting services get started, than we were met with a pandemic and a new way of managing regulatory compliance as we knew it. While community banks were adjusting to remote work and electronic delivery of loan and deposit forms, the volume of transactions continued to soar, new regulatory interpretations were delivered, and the industry was faced with large scale changes, some of which happened overnight. Back then, things really took a toll on bankers, and compliance professionals were no exception. So, it was no wonder that when things began to return to normalcy, we began to see attrition in compliance officers and

compliance staff. This dynamic shift in staffing has hit compliance management even harder than most banking positions due to the limited number of staff assigned to this role.

While larger banks need and can afford an entire compliance team, most small community banks rely on just one or two individuals to carry the regulatory burden. It is not like a bank can just hire anyone off the street these days. They need to acquire and retain professionals who require continuous education, an analytical mind set, and a great degree of diplomacy. Certainly, they are specialists in their field and today they are even harder to come by.

Our team of professionals offer consulting and shared service solutions:

• Compliance and risk management

• Operational efficiency and tactical planning

• Ongoing monitoring of regulatory disclosures

Contact FIPCO’s Jeff Schmid to get started.

jschmid@fipco.com 608-441-1220 www.FIPCO.com

Over the last five years, our ShareFI team has experienced both the highs and lows of compliance management with our clients. Whether it was collaborating with community banks on regulatory orders, filling gaps in compliance staffing, assisting with compliance examinations, or simply providing remote support services, one thing for certain is the need to plan for the future of your compliance program. And it all starts with staffing. Even examiners are now asking the question “what succession plan does the bank have for compliance management?” This is because they have recently rolled out their own succession plan with a new batch of compliance examiners.

Planning for your future compliance officer and compliance staff should be happening now or at least five years before any planned exodus. As mentioned earlier, these compliance professionals are specialists in their field and the education alone takes many years to absorb all the nuances of regulations. Not to mention, a good succession plan includes handholding through the next examination, while your current staff is still on board. Management should be looking internally for potential candidates who are seeking to advance their banking career and desire to play a larger role in the overall business strategy of the bank. And do not forget, your Wisconsin Bankers Association has numerous training and networking opportunities to help you mentor these candidates.

Five years ago, FIPCO had a vision to anticipate the future of compliance management (we just never envisioned a pandemic). Through our Shared Compliance Officer roles, we have been successful in delivering value-added solutions, including filing the gaps and helping bank management develop future compliance officers. While an outsourced, shared solution may be a good fit for your organization, not all banks are alike and having a future compliance officer candidate identified now may prove to be a brighter future for your compliance program. For more information on our shared services, to help your bank plan for compliance succession management, or to learn more about client success stories, please contact me at jschmid@fipco.com. There is value in ShareFI.

Schmid is director of compliance and management services at ShareFI. FIPCO is a subsidiary of WBA and a WBA Gold Associate Member.

BankWork$ Builds Meaningful Careers in Banking

Congratulations, graduates!

BankWork$ is a free, eight-week training program to prepare participants — primarily individuals from under-resourced communities — for retail banking careers. The nationwide program was brought to Wisconsin in 2019 through a partnership between the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) and Employ Milwaukee. So far, BankWork$ has provided over 130 individuals in the Milwaukee area with the opportunity to begin a career in banking.

In May, a class of seven students — including Melissa Trotter, Loren Gonzalez, Sandra Uscanga, Gabe Wheeler, Daniel Freman, Mary Castro, and Mariia “Masha” Korbing — graduated from the program. WBA’s Rose Oswald Poels attended the ceremony and congratulated the graduates on their achievement.

Over the course of the eight-week program, students

To learn more about the program, or how your bank can get involved, please visit employmilwaukee.org/BankWorks.htm.

Pictured (left to right) are: Oscar Delgado, BankWork$ career navigator; Melissa Trotter; Loren Gonzalez; Sandra Uscanga; Gabe Wheeler (back row); WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels; Adriene Wright, BankWork$ instructor (back row); Daniel Freman; Mary Castro; and Mariia “Masha” Korbin

HOUSING

By Daryll Lund

Impactful Opportunities Abound

The start of the Wisconsin Bankers Association’s (WBA) new fiscal year presents an ideal moment to spotlight the abundant opportunities available for both new and seasoned bankers to advance their professional development and build meaningful industry connections. Representing over 30,000 individual bankers, our Association thrives on their energy and desire to learn. Members’ insights, creativity, and expertise propel WBA to advance our mission of advocacy and education.

On June 5, 2024, Al Araque, senior vice president and director of consumer, private, and business banking at Johnson Financial Group in Racine, was installed as Chair of WBA’s Board of Directors. During the ceremony, he emphasized his priority of amplifying the Association’s impact and encouraged bankers to seize the opportunities WBA offers.

WBA's commitment to professional development is unwavering, evidenced by our top-notch programs and resources. For over 130 years, we have facilitated connections between bankers and experts on a wide array of banking-related subjects while also fostering peer relationships. We offer 80 in-person conferences, schools, and events across Wisconsin, alongside numerous convenient virtual options.

One of the standout opportunities for current and emerging leaders is the Building Our Leaders of Tomorrow (BOLT) program. Now in its 11th year, BOLT ensures the continued success of community banks by emphasizing talent development. Thousands of bankers have been equipped with tools to connect, learn, and advocate

for their industry through BOLT. Participants in the BOLT program can, in turn, shape the next generation of leaders.

The WBA Advocacy Officer program is another essential leadership opportunity. Advocacy Officers coordinate regulatory, legislative, and community advocacy efforts for their banks in collaboration with WBA. They work with fellow bankers, WBA staff, and representatives at local, state, and federal levels, as well as other state and national trade groups. By sharing stories of how legislative issues impact their professions and communities, Advocacy Officers play a crucial role in influencing change.

Our Employee Resource Group (ERG) aims to connect all members, especially those from historically underrepresented groups. This virtual forum offers a safe space for bankers to converse, share experiences, ask questions, and learn from one another. We are pleased to have Beth Ridley, CEO and founder of Ridley Consulting Group, moderating the group in 2024.

Another invaluable resource is WBA Connect, a collection of peer networks. These groups, covering topics from human resources to commercial lending, provide a banker-only peer community where members share challenges, wins, ideas, and inquiries specific to their roles.

Whether through participation in training and educational programs or volunteer opportunities, your active involvement in WBA helps amplify the positive impact member banks have in their communities and our industry.

Lund is WBA executive vice president and chief of staff.

Get in on UHC Rewards

There’s so much good to get!

With UnitedHealthcare (UHC) Rewards, a variety of actions — including things you may already be doing, like tracking your steps or logging your sleep — lead to rewards. The activities you go for are up to you, and the same goes for ways to spend your earnings.

UHC Rewards is included in UHC health plans at no additional cost.

Earn up to $1,000!

Community Advocate Spotlight

Wisconsin bankers are the definition of “community advocates” in all that they do every day to improve their local economy through bank products and services, as well as through generous philanthropy of time and money. The Community Advocate Spotlight shares and celebrates the diverse backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and innovation of some of the extraordinary bankers in the state.

Questions and Answers

The following is a brief interview between WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels and One Community Bank President and CEO Steve Peotter

How did you first get into the banking industry?

From a young age, I’ve known that my career path would be centered towards helping others, alongside a strong interest in finance. My career began in consumer finance, which provided a foundation to explore other areas including mortgage lending, retail banking, and commercial lending. It’s been rewarding to experience all aspects of banking and ultimately lead to my current role in community banking. Being involved in my community has always been a passion of mine. Currently being in community banking is the best approach for me and it allows me to continue assisting others while investing in communities.

What is your favorite aspect of your role at the bank?

Supporting colleagues in their professional journey is something I truly enjoy. From promotions to new roles, or simply enhancing existing responsibilities, the support we provide for each other is inspiring. Witnessing the growth and joy of our team members at One Community Bank is my favorite aspect of our work culture.

What do you wish the general public understood about the banking industry?

Main Street community banks are different than Wall Street banks. Community banks are here to focus on clients, whether that be local small business owners, first time homebuyers, high school graduates, or other members of the community. We specialize in serving clients, supporting colleagues, and investing in our communities. Multinational banks headquartered on Wall Street have a different focus, which may not center on their clients. With the current growth of digital banking, community banks can deliver the same online banking experience that multinational banks do. As locally owned institutions, community banks are committed to surpassing expectations and providing outstanding service.

Where do you believe the industry’s greatest challenges are in the next three to five years?

I believe the industry’s greatest challenge in the next three to five years will be bringing in young professionals. Community banks strive to provide work life balance for colleagues and have the ability for a rapid career progression if you desire it. We have a great ability to provide purposeful work while continuing to grow and evolve in our industry. To young individuals considering their next career steps, I highly recommend looking into community banking. It’s a highly rewarding and exciting field.

Please describe your current role at your bank and share with us one of your more rewarding experiences (e.g., A time you had to go above and beyond to help a customer, a memorable customer interaction, stepping in to help the local community after a disaster, or something more personal, etc.).

Throughout my career, I’ve had many rewarding experiences. One that comes to mind took place back in 2020. The pandemic was just beginning and happened to overlap with Girl Scout cookie season. I encountered a group of Girl Scouts selling cookies in person at the entrance to a grocery store near one of our bank locations. In talking with the troop leader, her anxiety around being in person with her troop interacting with the general public was apparent. She had the desire to support the girls’ cookie sales goal, but also keeping them safe in what at the time was an unknown and very scary environment.

In that moment, I decided Team OCB would purchase all the boxes of cookies the troop had with them. This decision wasn’t about the cookies; it was about enabling the troop to hit their goal for the Girls Scouts and allowing the troop to head home safely. Bringing those cookies back to OCB and sharing them with my colleagues was another opportunity to spread kindness and a reminder of the impact of supporting our community.

Bankers Marketplace

Controller - Finance & Operations Officer

First Community Bank - Milton

In the Finance capacity, alongside the CEO and third-party vendors, performs studies, analyzes information, generates reports and makes recommendations in areas such as budgets, forecasts, and statistical reports. Analyzes financial information to determine present and future financial performance. Develops, interprets, and recommends for implementation complex financial and accounting concepts or techniques for financial planning and control. Further supports policies, goals and objectives established by the CEO and Board of Directors by performing the following duties.

In the Operations capacity, assists in all department functions of the daily, monthly and annual reporting and balancing. Work alongside Operations Manager to ensure operations functions run smoothly and work is processed in a timely fashion. Act as back-up for general HR duties including maintaining vacation records for all officers and hourly employees and produces payroll reports. Coordinates onboarding paperwork for all new staff. Assists with annual staff reviews for Operations staff. Assists in balancing GL accounts and manages Federal and state reporting.

• Lead the ALCO Committee.

• Be an active member of the IT Committee and Compliance Committee.

• Bank liaison to State and Federal examiners and external auditors.

• Assists CEO with monthly / quarterly reporting.

• Must be teamwork oriented.

The position includes a generous benefit package while working in a family owned community bank environment. Contact Brendon Wilkinson at Wilkinson@fcbmilton.com for more information.

Branch Manager

Fortifi Bank, Berlin

Join Fortifi Bank, where you can make a real impact as a Branch Manager and be part of our mission of "Growin' Wisconsin"! We value those that are passionate about leadership and have an eagerness for growth and fostering client relationships. The Branch Manager is responsible for all branch operations and completes other activities as assigned. We have an opportunity for you to shine!

Job Details:

• Maintains good client relations

• Refers clients for new services when appropriate

• Opening accounts

• Leading sales efforts

• Maintains an efficient and productive work environment

• Responsible for all areas of performance management of direct reports

• Identifies opportunities for expansion within the market

• Firm understanding of Bank products and services

• Cross trains team members

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 2 years management experience is preferred

• Strong knowledge of banking products, services, and operations is required.

• Superior client service and communication skills

• Attention to detail skills

• Multi-tasking skills

• Ability to maintain confidentiality

• Ability to handle high-pressure situations

• Problem-solving skills

• Relationship building skills

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) and employer match

• Paid time off, volunteer PTO, and birthday PTO

• Life and disability insurance

• Tuition reimbursement

• Wellness program

• Banking perks

To learn more or apply, please visit https://www.fortifibank.com/careers/

Loan Assistant and Loan Specialist Positions

USDA Rural Development

USDA Rural Development is Hiring!

USDA Rural Development invests in rural America with grants and relending programs so first responders can put people’s safety first, schools can teach kids, and hospitals can care for everyone. Our partnerships support infrastructure so the people of rural America get connected to new markets and jobs of the future. Together, with local leaders and partners, we promote growth and prosperity in communities. Join a team that's investing in a strong future for the people of Rural Wisconsin

*Realty and Commercial Loan Specialists

Locations in Wisconsin: Dodgeville; Shawano; Fond du Lac; Menomonie; Stevens Point; Spooner

Duties include providing loans, grants, and technical assistance to individuals, businesses, non-profits, and communities. Reviewing and analyzing pre-applications, applications, and all supporting documents to determine loan or grant eligibility and inputs data into appropriate automated database system. Analyzing financial and credit data documents to make sound eligibility, feasibility, and credit-worthiness determinations and take appropriate action for orderly processing of the loan and/or grant. Meeting with lenders and potential borrowers to explain Rural Development programs and requirements.

Starting pay based on qualifications.

Apply online by searching USDA Rural Development Wisconsin at www.usajobs.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Visit wisbank.com/classifieds to view a full listing of job postings or for more information on placing or responding to an ad.

Wisconsin Banker

WBA Mission Statement

We actively advocate for, educate, and support our members to help them positively impact the Wisconsin communities they serve.

Association Officers:

Alvaro (Al) Araque (Chair), Senior Vice President, Director of Consumer, Private, and Business Banking, Johnson Financial Group, Racine

Paul J. Northway (Chair-Elect), President and CEO, American National Bank – Fox Cities, Appleton

Joe Peikert, (Vice Chair) President and CEO Wolf River Community Bank, Hortonville

Donna J. Hoppenjan (Past Chair), President and CEO, Mound City Bank, Platteville Rose Oswald Poels, President and CEO, Wisconsin Bankers Association, Madison

Association Board of Directors:

Kelly Heroux, President and CEO Peshtigo National Bank

Paul A. Hoffmann, President Lake Ridge Bank, Middleton

Shay Horton, President and CEO Cumberland Federal Bank

Shane Ilstrup, President Citizens First Bank, Trempealeau

Ryan T. Kamphuis, President and CEO

Bristol Morgan Bank, Oakfield

Jimmy Kauffman, President and CEO Bank of Sun Prairie, Sun Prairie

Greg Lundberg, President and CEO Fortifi Bank, Berlin

Thomas Mews, President First National Community Bank, New Richmond

Todd Nagel, President and CEO Incredible Bank, Wausau Bank Five Nine, Oconomowoc

Anthony (Tony) Nguyen

Eastern Minnesota/Wisconsin/Chicago Regional Bank Director, Senior Vice President

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Milwaukee Tim Schneider, President and CEO Bank Five Nine, Oconomowoc William (Bill) Sennholz, CEO Forward Bank, Marshfield

The Wisconsin Banker is published by the Wisconsin Bankers Association, 4721 South Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718; Telephone: 608-441-1200; wisbank.com.

Cassandra Krause, Editor 608-441-1216; ckrause@wisbank.com

Advertising: sales@wisbank.com

To report a change of address, please email us at requests@wisbank.com.

The publication of advertisements does not necessarily represent endorsement of those products or services by the Wisconsin Bankers Association. The editor reserves the right ot reject any advertising or editorial copy deemed unsuitable for publication for any reason. Copy deadline is eight business days before publication date.

Disclaimer: With the exception of official announcements, the Wisconsin Bankers Association disclaims all responsibility for opinions expressed and statements made in printed articles and advertisements in the Wisconsin Banker. This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is distributed with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional services. If legal or accounting advice or expert assistance is required, the services of a qualified professional should be sought.

July

7/9–8/1

Understanding Bank Performance Virtual Series

Eight-part webinar series – $1,000/attendee

23 Community Bankers for Compliance (CBC) –Session III

Virtual half-day – annual membership/pricing varies

25 Branch Manager Boot Camp: Session III

7/30–8/1

Four-part series, virtual half days – $800/attendee

Agricultural Lending School

Madison – $895/attendee; optional pre-school workshop on 7/29 – $200/attendee

August

15 Chair’s Member Appreciation Golf Outing

Wisconsin Dells

29 Branch Manager Boot Camp: Session IV

Four-part series, virtual half days – $800/attendee

September

9–10

10–11

12

ICBA LEAD FWD Summit

Milwaukee

Secur-I.T. Conference

Wisconsin Dells – team pricing available

Wisconsin Bankers Foundation Gala

Madison

17 IRA Essentials Workshop

Madison or Virtual - $245/attendee 18 Advanced IRA Workshop

Madison or Virtual - $245/attendee

18 FIPCO Software & Compliance Forum: Loan & Mortgage

Wisconsin Dells

23–24 Management Conference

9/30–10/1

Green Bay – team pricing available

Personal Banker School

Madison – $495/attendee

October

2–3

10/7–11/21

8–10

10–11

15–17

Consumer Lending Boot Camp

Madison – $550/attendee

Credit Analyst Development Program Virtual Series

Six-part virtual series – $2,275/attendee

Commercial Lending School

Madison – $895/attendee

Family-owned & Closely Held Bank Strategic Retreat

Madison

Deposit Compliance School

Madison or virtual – $795/attendee

17 Regulation E Workshop

Madison or virtual – $275/attendee

17 Directors Summit Madison

18 Section 1071 Workshop

21–22

Madison or virtual – $275/attendee

Supervisor Boot Camp

Madison – $535/attendee

22 Community Bankers for Compliance (CBC) –Session IV

Virtual half-day – annual membership/pricing varies

30 BSA/AML Workshop

Wisconsin Dells – $245/attendee

TBD Principles of Banking

Two-day sessions, location(s) TBD – $550/attendee

KEY: Color-Coded Event Descriptions

Conferences/Summits – One or more days, based on hot topics, industry news and best practices, scheduled time for peer networking

Schools/Boot Camps – Focused on a particular area of banking, allowing for a deep dive into that focused area over the course of two to six days

Workshops/Seminars – One-day programs, sometimes in multiple locations, focused on a specific topic or area of banking.

WBA-Hosted Webinars – Two-hour webinars instructed with a particular focus on Wisconsin state law and rules.

Other Events

www.wisbank.com | 608-441-1252 | wbaeducation@wisbank.com