June 2022 Wisconsin Banker

JUNE 2022

WISCONSIN BANKERS ASSOCIATION

FOUNDED 1892

Experts at Marquette Event Say It’s Time for Banks to Focus on Climate Change By Paul Gores Efforts to mitigate climate change are under way globally, and banks of all sizes would be prudent to prepare for regulations that climate concerns are bound to spur, experts say. Getting ahead of the curve now will give banks time to develop a thought-out strategy rather than having to deal with it quickly as mandates are issued, according to speakers at a recent Marquette

University banking conference titled, “Climate Change: What are the risks, realities, and challenges?” Although at this point only banks with assets of $100 billion or more are being targeted to include climate risk considerations in their examination routines, eventually those rules will find their way to smaller banks and credit unions, said Kent Belasco, the director of Marquette’s commercial banking program, which

hosted the online conference this spring. Belasco, who has held

annual commercial banking conferences on topics such as cybersecurity, financial crimes, and fintech, said he felt the time was right to look at what banks need to know about the eventuality of regulations focused on climate change. “What I wanted to structure was just purely

an informational session that says, OK, it may not be affecting me from a regulatory standpoint right now, but me, as a former banker, I knew that whenever the Fed started talking about something — even if they said it’s not going to affect you right now — it will, and you better get prepared for it,” Belasco said in an interview for the Wisconsin Bankers Association about the event. (continued on p. 10)

An Era of Evolution:

Expanding Good Practices Beyond 2020

The third in a series exploring the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on banks in Wisconsin.

By Hannah Flanders Following one of the deadliest pandemics the world has seen, U.S. government officials, businesses, and individuals alike have naturally begun

to reassess what safe health practices look like. In banks throughout Wisconsin, this is certainly no different. From plexiglass to constant reminders

to sanitize, cover your mouth, and stay home when you are sick — these lessons aren’t a byproduct of the COVID-19 pandemic but rather knowledge

that has subtly been around us this whole time without us really noticing. From buffet sneeze guards to “employees must wash hands before returning to work” signs, safe health practices were evident in public spaces long before COVID. What the pandemic did bring about, however, was the general public’s awareness to safety and health practices. At the onset of the pandemic, bankers across Wisconsin

assembled plexiglass screens and masked up for the protection of themselves, their coworkers, and every customer. Unlike before, health protocols were broadcasted on the news, posted on doors, and mentioned at every meeting. This hyperawareness, while effective in helping stop the spread, has highlighted specific efforts needed to accommodate the safety of every member of the community. (continued on p. 22)

UMS

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JUNE 2022

2022–2023 WBA Leadership

WBA Welcomes Its Newest Board Members With the close of its fiscal year on May 31, WBA welcomes its newest members to the Board of Directors. Alvaro (Al) Araque, senior vice president and director of consumer and private Araque banking, Johnson Financial Group, Racine, has been selected to become the 2022–23 WBA vice chair by the WBA Nominating Committee. Araque is now in line to become WBA chair in 2024–2025. Also serving as officers on this year’s WBA Board of Directors are: Chair Daniel Peterson, president and CEO of The Stephenson National Bank & Trust,

Hoffmann

Kamphuis

Lundberg

Mews

» Above: The four newest members of the WBA Board of Directors will participate in their first Board meeting on June 8.

Marinette; Chair-Elect Donna Hoppenjan, president and CEO of Mound City Bank, Platteville; and Past Chair Ken Thompson, president and CEO of Capitol Bank, Madison. The nominating committee, which is comprised of the current WBA officers and the four most recent past chairs, also selected the following four candidates to fill open seats on the 16-member WBA Board of Directors, all

of whom have been deemed elected by the membership: Paul Hoffmann, Monona Bank; Ryan Kamphuis, Bristol Morgan Bank, Oakfield; Greg Lundberg, Fortifi Bank, Berlin; and Tom Mews, First National Community Bank, New Richmond. Continuing on the board are: Jim Chatterton, National Exchange Bank & Trust, Fond du Lac; Jay Mack, Town Bank, N.A., Hartland;

Paul Northway, American National Bank – Fox Cities, Appleton; Greg Ogren, Security Bank Shares, Inc., Iron River; Joe Peikert, Wolf River Community Bank, Hortonville; Jenny Provancher, The Equitable Bank, S.S.B., Wauwatosa; Dan Ravenscroft, Royal Bank, Elroy; and Teresa (Terry) Rosengarten, Unity Bank, Augusta. WBA would also like to thank immediate Past Chair Paul Kohler, Charter Bank, Eau Claire; Mark Erickson, MidWestOne Bank, Osceola; Timothy Kotnour, State Bank Financial, La Crosse; and Mark Wierman, Ixonia Bank, who are rotating off the board this year, for their dedicated service to the association and the industry.

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JUNE 2022

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JUNE 2022

Advocacy Update

WBA Takes Steps to Help Protect Wisconsin Seniors From Costly Financial Fraud By Lorenzo Cruz Financial exploitation of the elderly population is a growing and widespread problem domestically and globally. It is difficult to comprehend that an individual would deliberately prey upon senior citizens for significant monetary gain, but financial exploitation has become a pervasive problem frequently costing seniors billions of dollars worldwide. On June 15, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, bankers are encouraged to join WBA in raising awareness to help prevent the financial exploitation of elders across the country.

What to Look For Often, criminals devise deceptive schemes to disguise the criminal activity that seniors often fall victim to. Some of the common frauds affecting seniors include romance scams, government impostor scams, friend impostor scams, and online shopping scams. Fraud reports filed with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that seniors’ losses totaled $600 million in 2020. The costliest schemes were romance scams with reported losses of $139 million in 2020. However, the vast majority of elder financial exploitation goes unreported. What is more disconcerting is that sometimes the criminal masterminds could be the durable power of attorney (POA) like a family member or close friend. A family member is the perpetrator in over 60% of these financial abuse cases, according to a University of Southern California study. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) estimates that approximately 10% of

Advocacy Update Lorenzo Cruz

Americans above the age of 60 have succumbed to some form of elder abuse. Several of the warning signs to be on the watch out for related to financial abuse are sudden changes in seniors’ personal finances, uncharacteristic bank withdrawals, checks written out as loans or gifts, lost property, and unpaid bills. Seniors can protect their finances by maintaining accurate financial records, never providing personal information over the phone, getting a second opinion on financial matters from an attorney or financial advisor, and selecting a trustworthy person to assist in managing personal finances. If family or friends suspect financial elder exploitation, talk to the victim about the possibility of fraud and report suspected abuse to adult protective services, law enforcement, and banks. While banks are restricted from sharing specific account information, they can review potential abuse and report suspicious criminal behavior.

Actions WBA is Taking Last July, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster signed a law to protect vulnerable adults from fraudulent financial transactions. The new law allows financial institutions and financial service companies to decline, delay, or report transactions that are suspected of elder financial abuse for

vulnerable adults 55 years or older. At that time, South Carolina joined 31 other states that passed similar legislation. In the Badger State, the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) pursued a similar path to protect seniors from this insidious crime wave and reintroduced an elder financial exploitation bill in 2021. SB 19/AB 46 and SB 20/AB 45 co-authored by State Senator Pat Testin and State Representative John Macco provided financial institutions and securities companies with the tools to better protect their vulnerable adults and senior customers from fraud and abuse. The bills would allow financial institutions and securities companies to pause transactions suspected of financial elder fraud and would allow them to collaborate with the customer, a trustworthy list of individuals, and law enforcement to determine if the transactions should be approved. While the potential elder abuse transaction is on hold, the remaining funds in the account would still be available for other transactions. The bills also would permit reporting

requirements, provide liability protections, and allow refusal of POA in suspected elder fraud cases. As the elder fraud legislation moved through the legislative process, WBA’s advocacy efforts saw mixed success on the bills before the state legislature. WBA actively lobbied the issue and passed the elder fraud legislation in the assembly on a bipartisan vote with an overwhelming majority. Unfortunately, the bill stalled in the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions and Revenue. Despite falling short on passing an elder financial exploitation law in Wisconsin, WBA made tremendous progress on the issue. WBA’s government relations team remains committed to enacting legislation that would provide banks with the tools needed to protect seniors from costly fraud. Passage of the elder financial exploitation legislation remains a high priority for WBA during the next legislative session, which begins in January of 2023. Cruz is WBA vice president – government relations.

June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day As the financial exploitation of seniors and elder fraud continues to be not only a growing problem in Wisconsin, but throughout the country, it is important for bankers around the state to recognize the red flags of elder fraud. From unusual financial activity to others taking a great deal of interest the senior’s finances — bankers have a unique perspective in helping detect the financial abuse of seniors in the state. To report suspected abuse or neglect of adults ages 60 and older, please call Wisconsin Elder Abuse Hotline (toll-free) at 1-833-586-0107 or Dane County Elder Abuse and Neglect Helpline at 608-261-9933.

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JUNE 2022

Maintaining Campaign and Election-Related Accounts Can a Customer Open a Campaign Finance Account?

Q A

Answer: Yes. Customers may seek to open campaign accounts, political action accounts, conduit funds, and other types of election-related accounts. Because there is no list of specific documentation that banks must collect for such accounts, banks receiving requests to open these accounts will need to consider what should be collected based upon policy and procedure. As there can be many types of campaign and election-related accounts, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Banks will need to have a conversation with their customers to better understand the nature of the account requested. This article will use a state-related campaign as an example to illustrate an approach bank might take. State-related campaigns must follow Wisconsin

Compliance Q&A Scott Birrenkott

campaign and election laws. For example, a customer might run for mayor, or sheriff, and seek an account to maintain their campaign funding. The documentation the customer might have, and what documentation the bank might collect from the customer depends upon how the customer is holding funds, making contributions, disbursements, and fundraising. For this reason, the bank should consider having a conversation with the customer to better understand the campaign and use that information to gather any supporting documentation for

Visit www.wisbank.com to learn more about this topic and other compliance-related issues.

confirmation of those details. Bankers might also consider familiarizing themselves with the election process. Particularly if these accounts become common. It is not necessary to become an expert on Wisconsin campaign finance law, but familiarization with the process will go a long way in facilitating easier conversations with customers, knowing the right questions to ask, and to better request relevant information to maintain the account. For example, restrictions or reporting requirements might apply, depending on the campaign. While such requirements are generally the duty of a campaign’s treasurer to follow, from a “know-yourcustomer” perspective it is

worth the bank taking the time to understand these details. An example account title for such an account would be: John Doe for Sheriff by Jane Doe as Treasurer. The law of campaign finance is complex. Furthermore, a customer might seek to open an account different than that used in the example above (ex: PAC, conduit, or federal election). Based upon this complexity and variety, a financial institution should also consider seeking assistance from its legal counsel in opening and maintaining such accounts. Birrenkott is WBA director – legal. For legal questions, please email wbalegal@wisbank.com. Note: The above information is not intended to provide legal advice; rather, it is intended to provide general information about banking issues. Consult your institution’s attorney for specific legal advice or assistance.

Updated WBA Safe Deposit Box Manual Now Available Stay ahead of recent changes impacting safe deposit boxes Earlier this year, WBA Legal released an updated version of the WBA Safe Deposit Box Manual. Available to all members for $250, the manual addresses recent changes in law impacting the safe deposit

area of the bank. WBA’s Safe Deposit Manual includes several sections which address general lease procedure, natural person lease, fiduciary lease, organization or partnership

lease, agency (aka POA), routine access, notice of death and access for will search and inventory, access to remove property after death, access to remove property after death pre-1992, special

WBA Comments on FDIC Post-Exam Surveys Summary of a recent comment letter below FDIC recently requested comment on the effectiveness and quality of FDIC Safety and Soundness and Consumer Compliance examinations. Particularly, FDIC seeks to identify ways to improve the examination process. WBA submitted comments including feedback from member banks.

View this and previous comment letters filed by WBA at www. wisbank.com/CommentLetters.

laws and regulations, the examination process, and examination report quality. Comments included review and consideration of the efficiency of the pre-examination process, examiners’ professionalism and understanding of the

For copies of this or other WBA comment letters, please contact the WBA Legal Department at 608-441-1200 or visit www. wisbank.com/CommentLetters.

death problems, termination and surrender, recordkeeping and forms, found keys, bank opening and safekeeping, and miscellaneous. These sections within the manual assist banks in the state, whether they are headquartered or have bank branches, stay compliant with Wisconsin state laws. Additionally, banks are able to access common compliance issues related to safe deposit box products in one convenient manual and ensure every member of the bank stays up to date on the restrictions of safe deposit boxes. Order your bank’s copy of the Safe Deposit Box Manual or other legal publications by WBA by visiting wbastorefront.myshopify.com/ collections/all.

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JUNE 2022

Women’s Leadership Celebrated at 16th Annual Conference Women in Banking Conference held April 26 in Wisconsin Dells and livestreamed Over 200 bankers participated in this spring’s uplifting Women in Banking Conference, held in Wisconsin Dells and livestreamed. The 16th annual event was a highlight for women leaders in the industry, who had the opportunity to hear from renowned speakers, build their networks, and make an impact on worthy causes, including the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation (WBF). A raffle benefitting WBF drew donations from 99 attendees, raising nearly $2,000 to support the Foundation’s mission of empowering financial decisions through education and research. (See the prize donor list, below.)

Above: Jess Ekstrom (left), founder of Headbands of Hope, kicked off the conference by sharing her story of optimism and why it is the secret ingredient to success. Right: Liz High, executive vice president of Nymbus Labs, presented on how the power of one’s mindset can change their professional context for the better.

Wisconsin Bankers Foundation Raffle Prize Donors: » Bankers’ Bank, Madison » Bell Bank, Eau Claire » National Bank of Commerce, Superior » The Park Bank, Madison » Peoples State Bank, Wausau » Quad City Bank & Trust, Davenport, Iowa » State Bank of Cross Plains » Tomahawk Community Bank » The Wilderness Resort, Wisconsin Dells » Wisconsin Bankers Association, Madison

Left: Julie Peterson Klein, chief of staff, executive vice president – chief culture officer of Bell Bank, sent attendees off with a challenge to lead passionately and pay it forward.

Above: An audience favorite at WBA events, Arika Pierce, leadership development coach at Piercing Strategies, LLC shared practical tips for self-advocacy and branding that can be applied to achieve career goals.

Women in Banking Conference Sponsors: » Bankers’ Bank » Bell Bank » FHLBank Chicago

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JUNE 2022

Banks Show Power of Community in April and Beyond While WBA’s fifth annual Power of Community Week may have ended, bankers and Associate Members continue to show their efforts in powering their communities. Around the state, banks participated in community service projects and financial literacy events, and connected with local community members through drives and donations. Bankers’ time, talents, and efforts to help their communities have surely not gone unnoticed! Below are just a few examples of the many ways banks participated in this statewide campaign.

Waumandee State Bank TCTSD AbbyBank Drive AbbyBank, Abbotsford employees collected hygiene items for local area food pantries and nonprofit organizations. Additionally, the bank matched $1 for every item donated.

Bankers from Waumandee State Bank visited students at Cochrane-Fountain City elementary school to present lessons on saving in connection with National Teach Children to Save Day. Around the state, bankers engaged students using the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation’s Reading Raises Interest Kit.

#BanksPowerWI » Thank you to all the banks and bankers that partipated. Visit wisbank.com/ BanksPowerWI to see more photos or click on the interactive map to see how banks got involved.

Spring Bank Peanut Butter Drive

Citizens First Bank Adopts a Highway

This year, staff members at Spring Bank in Brookfield donated peanut butter to The Hunger Task Force — Milwaukee’s only free and local food bank.

Members of Citizens First Bank participated in a roadside cleanup. The bank has a two-mile section of adopted highway in Vernon County.

» Be sure to join us again next year for WBA Power of Community Week, April 17–22, 2023!

Ladysmith Tree Donations Bank of Wisconsin Dells TCTSD

First National Bank of River Falls Tour

Kim Pearson of Bank of Wisconsin Dells visited first grade students at Lake Delton Elementary School to teach good financial habits.

Bankers at First National Bank of River Falls welcomed a group of kindergarten students to the bank for a tour of the office and to take part in financial literacy activities.

Ladysmith Federal Savings and Loan Association donated 300 two-year-old red oak trees to the students at Lac du Flambeau Elementary School and Ladysmith Elementary School on April 22 in recognition of Earth Day and Power of Community Week.

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JUNE 2022

You’re Stronger Than You Might Realize Uncovering the hidden talents in your team By Lisa Dixon We all have hidden talents. At least that’s what my mom used to tell me every time I failed to land a cartwheel — something I still believe every 11 year old, besides me, could do. But she meant well and although I never did learn how to do a cartwheel, I did have other talents that my friends didn’t. And in today’s world, where staffing is tougher than ever and every business is vying for the same pool of candidates, this might be a good time to step back and look for those hidden talents in your workforce. A few years back, Westbury Bank wanted to put together a welcome video for new hires — something that was fun and would really showcase the team. As we were discussing the project, someone remembered that we had a part-time teller who

Strategic Connections Lisa Dixon

was going to school for video production. After talking with the employee and sharing our vision of the video, he was excited to not only shoot it, but to write a script and edit the final product. It turned out great and started us on a path to discover what other talents our coworkers might be hiding. When we were looking for a photographer to shoot some pictures for a billboard campaign, we first turned to our employees to see if anyone had photography skills. Sure enough, our part-time teller had been dabbling in photography for a few years and was thrilled

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at the opportunity. It was a win-win. We got great shots for our billboards, and he got some real-world samples to add to his growing portfolio. It’s not just those “creative talents” that I’m talking about. We tend to think of employees’ skills based on the title they have. Teller, deposit operations, compliance, marketing, etc. But if you really get to know your employees, you may find skills that neither you nor they ever considered. Need help with social media? You likely have someone who is well versed and would love to assist with creating posts. Accounting is struggling to find entry level candidates? Look to your branch staff, where you may find someone who not only understands how the front end works but also has the aptitude and drive needed to apply those skills on the back end. Commercial credit

needs help? We have filled a number of those spots with part-time college students who became full-time employees upon graduation. I’m not necessarily suggesting you “rob Peter to pay Paul,” although in some cases that might be the case — there are certain positions that are easier to fill than others. But, instead, be creative. Stop limiting your perception of employees’ skills based on their current title. Talk to employees about what their drive and passions are, and maybe then you’ll uncover some hidden talents. Dixon, senior vice president – retail banking at Westbury Bank in Waukesha, is a member of the 2021 – 2022 WBA Marketing Committee. This column is published bi-monthly in Wisconsin Banker and is written by members of the WBA Marketing Committee.

WBA Connect is a collection of peer groups offered to WBA-member bankers as a way to make connections, ask questions related to the industry or your department, and share ideas with bankers around the state. Membership grants exclusive access to an online Google group and four peer connection meetings to be scheduled through the year. The annual membership begins June 1, 2022 and runs through May 31, 2023 for a fee of $150 per member per peer group. To learn more about joining a WBA Connect peer group, visit wisbank.com/connect or contact WBA’s Lori Kalscheuer at lkalscheuer@wisbank.com.

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Climate Change (continued from p. 1) Speakers at the Marquette conference were in agreement there is no doubt climate change risks and regulations for banks are coming, and banks should not only prepare for inevitable new rules, but also consider the transition to sustainable fuels and lending to greener businesses a growth opportunity. They acknowledged it may seem intimidating at first, but said banks can adapt. “You guys have navigated really tough crises in the past, and here you are,” said Ariana Gomez, founder and » Industries producing the most greenhouse gases are energy, transportation, manufacturing, building, and agriculture.

chief executive officer of the consulting firm Technology for Impact. She said bankers should ask themselves how they can be “an accelerator” in the transition. “Because you hold the money at the end of the day. How can you be an accelerator here and grow your own business by doing the right thing?” Gomez said. Michael Cohn, a principal at the Boston-based consulting firm Wolf & Company, said some companies he works with are early adopters that see what’s coming. “They clearly see social and societal and consumer behavior beginning to drive the selection of companies that they want to do business with,” said Cohn. “They are not afraid of moving forward, even in the face of all the ambiguity that still exists out there.”

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He said management teams for those companies know that if they move early, they can take their time to develop plans. “And if they take their time and they can be thoughtful, they will be able to implement these programs at less expense,” Cohn said. One hurdle that could keep some banks on the sidelines for now is the political debate over climate change. Not everyone is yet convinced it’s a risk they should have to account for — or in some cases, whether it’s even the great threat many consider it to be. Shareholders at three of the nation’s biggest banks — Citigroup, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo — this spring voted down proposals aimed at reducing their lending to new fossil-fuel projects. However, the proposals cleared thresholds to qualify for resubmission next year, according to a report by American Banker. Regardless of the politics around climate change, many nations, including the U.S. government and its agencies, are taking it seriously. In the U.S., efforts are starting to come from various federal regulators, including bank regulators. While the focus now is on the biggest institutions, it will widen, the experts said. In December last year, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency released a document, “Principles for Climate-Related Financial Risk for Large Banks,” aimed at banks with more than $100 billion in assets. “At the same time the OCC said that all banks, regardless of size, may have material exposures to climate-related financial risks,” environmental attorney Jason Lichtstein said during the Marquette conference. Climate change, simply put, is the long-term change of weather and temperatures resulting from the burning of

“… as a former banker, I knew that whenever the Fed started talking about something — even if they said it’s not going to affect you right now — it will, and you better get prepared for it.” — Dr. Kent Belasco director Marquette Commercial Banking Program Milwaukee

fossil fuels. Greenhouse gases from fossil fuel consumption move into the earth’s atmosphere and capture heat from the sun, causing the global temperature to rise. Lichtstein, citing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, said climate change impacts are happening now and increasing in scope, frequency, and intensity. In 2020, there were more than $22 billion weather and climate disasters in the U.S., a record, he said. “From 1980 to 2021, there was an annual average of 7.7 events, and the annual average for the most recent five years, from 2017 to 2021, was 17.8 events,’’ said Lichtstein, whose practice with the national law firm Akerman LLP focuses on the cleanup and redevelopment of brownfields and other contaminated sites. The international goal is to hold the global temperature increase to no more than 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit by 2050. The Biden administration is seeking to reduce U.S. greenhouse gases by 50% to 52% from 2005 levels by 2030. The longerrange goal is net zero emissions by 2050. Net zero means producing less carbon than we take out of the atmosphere. Industries producing the most greenhouse gases are energy, transportation, manufacturing, building, and agriculture. (continued on p. 11)

JUNE 2022

Climate Change (continued from p. 10) The fallout from climate change includes higher sea levels and more destructive storms, floods, and wildfires. Among financial risks include potential market and credit losses, equity and bond price declines, carbon asset writedowns, falling property values and the costs of transitioning to cleaner energy. A 2019 report by the firm Oliver Wyman, “Climate Change: Managing a New Financial Risk,” stated that in addition to operational and market risks, climate change can lead to increased credit risk for banks. The report said, for instance, that mortgage portfolios could be hit by events that reduce property values.

“[Bankers] have navigated really tough crises in the past, and here you are… How can you be an accelerator here and grow your own business by doing the right thing?” — Ariana Gomez founder and chief executive officer Technology for Impact

In a report last year, the Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts, which is a statewide collaboration of scientists and stakeholders formed as a partnership between UW-Madison’s Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, said that since 2011, data in the state showed continued warming, increases in rain and snow, and more-frequent extreme rainfall events. “Statewide temperatures have warmed by about three degrees Fahrenheit and precipitation has increased by nearly twenty percent since 1950,” the report says. “In the last decade, nearly every region of the state

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has experienced extreme rainfall events that led to flooding of roads, homes, businesses, and farm fields.” The Wisconsin report said, among other concerns, that warmer winters, increasing deer herds, extreme weather events, summer droughts, and longer growing seasons are stressing forest ecosystems and increasing the risk of outbreaks of new pests and diseases. “Iconic species like the paper birch are vanishing from northern forests as the climate warms,” the report says. “Forest management, logging, and the forest products supply chain are facing uncertainty, with implications for rural economies.” In the future, banks are likely to be required to account for how their lending — the businesses they lend to — could affect climate change. They also are expected to have to account for whether their key third-party vendors are complying with efforts to mitigate climate change, participants in the Marquette conference said. “We are observing all the time that nobody has yet put in good solid detailed vendor due diligence and vendor monitoring practices over whether their vendors have put in climate risk management programs,” Cohn said. “Nobody is there yet. It has not worked its way into one of the most basic risk management activities, which is monitor your vendors.” Governments around the world are pushing for mandatory climate risk reporting, said David Carlin, who leads the Financial Stability Board’s Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures and the climate risk program for the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative. The task force has designed standardized guidelines to help organizations disclose material climate risks, explain

plans to manage exposure, and describe how the shift to a zero-carbon economy would affection their operations. “What we’re seeing is that there’s a lot of work on getting boards up to speed, getting executive leadership involved in the climate risk process on the governance side,” Carlin said. “On the strategy side, climate opportunities are an area that has been of increasing interest, and strategies are explicitly being developed alongside sustainable finance frameworks to bring those things to fruition.” Unlike risk scenario analysis that can rely on the past to project what is likely to happen, climate change is dynamic, which makes it more challenging to predict risks. One thing all banks should be aware of is that the customers and employees of the future — millennials and Gen Z — want their banks to be mindful of climate change and involved in slowing it. Those groups are “looking for places with purpose,” said Gomez. “They want to work and earn a salary, but they also want to transcend, to have positive impact on the planet,” she said. Belasco said he also has seen that motivation in college students he has trained. “There is no doubt that millennials and Gen Z are hyper focused on the products and services they use and what is the impact to the environment when they go ahead and use them,” Cohn said. Cohn said it’s time for banks to consider the risks that come with climate change. “When we talk about climate and credit, we are worried about are we going to wind up with defaults because of companies that either are not making transitions, or they are so fossil fuel dependent that the markets and consumers move completely away and they cannot pay us back,” Cohn said.

“If [banks] take their time and they can be thoughtful, they will be able to implement these programs at less expense.” — Michael Cohn principal Wolf & Company

He said banks need to analyze who they’re going to do business with in the future, even though brown industries and the world aren’t ready yet to shed their usage of fossil fuels. Banks must consider migrating funding to new green industries and slowly wean some of the brown industries. “That’s where the banking system and banking, both at a national, regional, and community level, can have the biggest impact — because there are a lot of small companies out there that are doing the right thing,” he said. It will be important for banks to establish — and soon — a panel or person to oversee the bank’s climate change efforts and set up a process for identifying, assessing, and managing climate-related risks, Cohn said. “Committees provide two things: They provide oversight and they provide the approval for the provision of resources,” Cohn said. Executives need to make sure climate risk is something everyone in the organization is on top of, although the chief risk officer probably is going to be “the orchestra leader for these plans,” Cohn said. Cohn said even though it might seem overwhelming at times, banks should get started now because the pace of change isn’t going to slow down. “The world right now is moving likely at the slowest rate of change it will for the rest of our lives,” he said. Gores is a journalist who covered business news for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel for 20 years.

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•

WIPFLI LLP

WBA Bronze Associate Members Arctic Wolf Networks, Inc. • The Baker Group • Bank Compensation Consulting • Bankers Healthcare Group, LLC (BHG) • Delta Dental of Wisconsin • Eide Bailly LLP • Executive Benefits Network (EBN) • Godfrey & Kahn, S.C. • JMFA • Northland Securities, Inc. • Plante Moran • Quad City Bank & Trust • Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren S.C. • SHAZAM, Inc. • Spectrum Investment Advisors • VGM Forbin • West Bend Mutual Insurance Company

* Visit wisbank.com/associates for a complete list of WBA Associate Members or for more information.

S UMMER LEADERSHIP S UMMIT BOLT’s Mission: Building Exceptional Leaders Through Involvement.

June 9 –10, 2022 Glacier Canyon Conference Center 45 Hillman Road Wisconsin Dells

» Opening Keynote: The Future of Work — Leading Within a Generationally Diverse Organization Dr. Melissa Furman

Dr. Melissa Furman Founder/Consultant of Career Potential, LLC This interactive session will provide recommendations and strategies for leading a generationally diverse organization to help your organization become an “employer of choice.”

»Visit www.wisbank.com/BOLT to register or for more information.

2021 2022

YEAR IN REVIEW

President’s Message:

AS we resume more and more of our pre-pandemic activities, there is much discussion around which of the changes we adopted over the past two+ years are here to stay. When I look at Wisconsin’s banking industry, it is apparent to me that the new innovations are a reflection of who our state’s bankers have always been. Modern flexibility for bank employees, for example, reiterates that banks are committed to investing in their most valuable assets — their people. Similarly, the adoption of new technologies and cybersecurity measures reinforces the level of service and trustworthiness banks have always been proud to offer their clients. This Year in Review is designed to illustrate the ways in which the Wisconsin Bankers Association

and its subsidiaries have served our members over the past fiscal year, June 2021–May 2022. As we celebrate WBA’s 130th anniversary, we take note of the ways the roots of the organization have strengthened over more than a century and enabled us not only to weather storms, but also to continue to grow. Thank you for your membership in WBA and for working together with us to demonstrate that even as we adapt over time, the longstanding values of our industry — economic prosperity, community focus, and leadership — are here to stay.

Rose Oswald Poels WBA President and CEO

Outgoing Chair’s Message:

THE events of recent years have rapidly accelerated the rate of change in our industry and in our society in general. Things we thought would take months or years, particularly in terms of technological advances, we were able to accomplish at a record pace. This Year in Review outlines the ways we were able to come together as a professional organization

The companies of WBA, Inc. Working together for you. ™

to tackle the challenges racing toward us and prepare for what lies ahead. Thanks to WBA, our teams have the cutting-edge resources they need to excel at their jobs and advance our industry — far exceeding what any one employer could offer on their own. My philosophy when I began my term as WBA chair was to “take action.” Looking back over the numbers, we certainly packed a lot of action into just one year, and we are not slowing down. We are often reminded that we are currently experiencing the slowest rate of change we will ever know in the future. It has truly been an honor for me to represent WBA as chair this year, and I look forward to the ways we will continue to work together to stay ahead of the curve.

Ken Thompson, 2021–22 WBA Chair President and CEO Capitol Bank, Madison

MIDWEST BANKERS Insurance Services

For more information… www.wisbank.com ▪ www.fipco.com ▪ www.wisbankins.com ▪ www.mbisllc.com ▪ www.wisbankfoundation.org

2021 2022

YEAR IN REVIEW

Advocating 43 23 10

Banks earned WBA’s Gold Triangle Award, the 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 in advocacy. WBA legislative priorities signed into law during 2021–22 legislative session.

112

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

152

Bankers earned the Silver Triangle Award for contributing at least $500 to Wisbankpac, ABW, or issue advocacy funds.

192,193

$

61 4 154

14

In contributions, FYTD, that WBA member employees, directors, and others have given to WBA’s political action funds: Wisbankpac and the ABW political conduit. 61 candidates and 4 legislative party candidate committees — Republican and Democrat — in the state and at the federal level have received support from WBA political action funds. Bills currently being tracked or monitored by WBA of the 2,315 bills introduced so far this session in the State Legislature during the 2021–22 legislative session.

* Learn more about WBA Associate Member package holders on p. 12. * Please see the complete list of WBA Associate Members at www.wisbank.com/associates.

1 78,000+ 49,000+ 208,000+

Comment letters, 1 template letter created for membership use. Amicus Brief filed, Wisconsin Supreme Court. Reach of Facebook posts. Twitter post impressions. LinkedIn post impressions.

Supporting 146

WBA Associate Members providing quality products and services to WBA members.*

OVER

Annual savings with WBA Association Health Plan through UnitedHealthcare.

1.8

$

MILLION

90+ 2,000 2

Banks utilizing new WBA EBC online benefit administration portal with over 2,000 benefit transactions completed electronically. Website redesigns, www.wisbank.com and www.fipco.com, streamlined user experience for WBA members.

Our Mission: “We promote a healthy environment for

Left: The 2022 WBA Bank Executives Conference and other events were held in a hybrid format, providing flexible delivery options for attendees.

For more information… www.wisbank.com ▪ www.fipco.com ▪ www.wisbankins.com ▪ www.mbisllc.com ▪ www.wisbankfoundation.org

The companies of WBA, Inc.



Working together for you.

Wisconsin Bankers Association | FIPCO™ | WBA Employee Benefits Corporation | Midwest Bankers Insurance Services | Wisconsin Bankers Foundation | Generations Title

Educating 1,597 5,000 95

Nearly 5,000 attendees at WBA training events. WBA-hosted educational opportunities.

>$

107

Legal Call Program calls, June 1, 2020– April 30, 2021.

40+ 2,704

Education net revenues exceeded budget thanks to membership support of WBA educational programs.

2,600

Members receiving Wisconsin Banker Daily e-newsletter.

53 $ 10,000

Applications were submitted for Wisconsin Bankers Foundation scholarships, and $10,000 was awarded.

225 $ 11,058

+

220+

Over 225 active participants bid on 46 items, raising $11,058 in the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation’s 2022 virtual silent auction.

4

40+ banks gave virtual or in-person presentations in K–12 classes and 2,704 Reading Raises Interest Kits were delivered for Teach Children to Save Day.

155

4

New, free Legal content creations.

2

New Legal resource manuals for purchase.

455 $ 39.1 MILLION 52%

Midwest Bankers Insurance Services (MBIS) helped over 220 community banks with complex insurance renewal negotiations, internal control guidance, best practices, coverage education, and policy placement.

CEOnly/CFOnly Network questions answered, June 1, 2021– May 3, 2022.

Loan applications totaling $39,100,000 were submitted via FIPCO ConnectFI — a new, customer-facing digital lending SaaS that integrates with Compliance Concierge™. Of Compliance Concierge™ customers utilize eSignature by DocuSign, saving resources and reducing carbon and waste.

92

77%

40

Legal live events, with over 125 connections for each event. Connections over 4 virtual FIPCO forums — deposit, loan, and mortgage. (Multiple people may have attended from each connection.) Quarterly Banconomics data reports produced for seven states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin.

Revenue growth in ShareFI engagement services to 51 WBA members. Banks saved over $250,000 with ShareFI compliance officer services, helping reduce their personnel expenses. WBA members benefited from FIPCO InfoSecurity and IT Audit engagement services.

1

banks in Wisconsin by actively advocating, educating, and supporting our members.”

Right: Over 100 bankers attended the 2022 WBA Capitol Day in Madison.

For more information… www.wisbank.com ▪ www.fipco.com ▪ www.wisbankins.com ▪ www.mbisllc.com ▪ www.wisbankfoundation.org

16

JUNE 2022

Bulletin Board

News about people working in Wisconsin’s financial institutions Promotions and New Hires Eau Claire Mark Oldenberg has been promoted to CEO of Security Financial Services Corporation (SFSC) and Security Financial Bank (SFB). He will continue to serve as SFB president in addition to his role as CEO. Krista Mayer has joined SFB as a loan portfolio analyst. Fond du Lac National Exchange Bank & Trust has announced the promotions of Sue Freund (pictured), vice president – loan services; Amanda Fryman (pictured), vice president – commercial loan services; Nicki Hau (pictured), talent acquisition officer; William Hodgkiss (pictured), executive vice president – commercial lending; Steve Holz (pictured), executive vice president – commercial lending; Gregg Mashack (pictured), senior vice president – retail lending

Freund

Fryman

Hau

Hodgkiss

Holz

Mashack

Moyle

Oelke

Wall

Garcia

Harrigan

Hatfield

Meyer

Gamroth

Roush

manager; Danyel Moyle (pictured), credit officer – manager; Karri Oelke (pictured), marketing officer; and Teri Wall (pictured), personal banking officer – team leader. Madison First Business Bank is pleased to welcome four new hires:

Independence State Bank Celebrates 125 Years Independence State Bank celebrated 125 years of service to its communities on April 3, 2022. During the bank’s celebration on April 4, WBA Executive Vice President – Chief of Staff Daryll Lund (far left) presented a plaque to President/CEO Tom Jensen (near left) commemorating Independence State Bank‘s achievements. The event was held at the Independence State Bank branch.

Laura Garcia (pictured) joins as chief risk officer; Bill Harrigan (pictured) joins as vice president – SBA lending; Jennifer Hatfield (pictured) joins as financial analyst; and Lindsay Meyer (pictured), CTP, joins as assistant vice president – treasury management.

Manitowoc Bank First has welcomed Josiah Gamroth (pictured) as retail banker in Watertown as well as announced the promotions of Kristi Roush (pictured) to retail market manager and Kathryn Schmitz (pictured) to vice president – retail banking. In addition, the bank’s general counsel and corporate secretary, Kelly Dvorak (pictured), has been appointed to oversee the bank’s compliance function. Marinette Heather Addison (pictured) has been promoted to senior trust officer at The Stephenson National Bank & Trust (SNBT). Marshfield Jason Lindeman (pictured) has joined Forward Bank as vice president – senior agricultural and commercial loan officer. (continued on p. 17)

InBusiness Names Four Madison-area Bankers to 40 Under 40, Class of 2022

Grays

Gregerson

Piatt

Resch

This year, four Madison-area bankers were honored by InBusiness for being the most successful and civic-minded young professionals under the age of 40 in the Greater Madison area. Congratulations to Tara Grays, business banking officer at State Bank of Cross Plains; Natalie Gregerson, assistant vice president – marketing director at Capitol Bank, Madison; Jessica Piatt, vice president – commercial relationship manager, Old National Bank, Madison; and Josh Resch, vice president – business banking officer at Starion Bank, Middleton.

Have good news? To submit a notice, please email bulletinboard@wisbank.com or mail entries to WBA Bulletin Board, 4721 South Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718. Send photos as JPEG files. Questions? Contact WBA’s Hannah Flanders at 608-441-1237 or hflanders@wisbank.com.

17

JUNE 2022

Bulletin Board

News about people working in Wisconsin’s financial institutions Bulletin Board

Association to support the construction of a turf field on Field 1 of the Fond du Lac Soccer Complex.

(continued from p. 16) Medford Prevail Bank is pleased to announce that Dave Kuhlman (pictured) has joined as vice president – commercial banking officer. Monroe Woodford State Bank welcomes Cassidy Reilly (pictured) as mortgage and consumer lender and Maverick Muhlstein (pictured) as vice president – agricultural and commercial lender. New Glarus The Bank of New Glarus is excited to announce the promotion of Kate Hanson (pictured) to chief financial officer and Jance Marty (pictured) to chief lending officer. New London First State Bank has named Vice President Kevin Konkol (pictured) as manager of the bank’s agriculture-business banking division. Racine Johnson Financial Group has announced the promotions of Ana Marino (pictured) to commercial banking portfolio manager and Jason Saffert (pictured) to vice president – commercial banking.

Schmitz

Dvorak

Addison

Lindeman

Kuhlman

Reilly

Muhlstein

Hanson

Marty

Konkol

Marino

Saffert

Zulliger

Maske

Danielson

Oregon One Community Bank has been recognized as being the number one leader of PACE Financing in 2021 for their efforts in adapting clean energy and sustainability practices. Verona Capitol Bank’s Wendy Jirsa, vice president – Verona bank manager, has been elected to serve as president of the Verona Area Chamber of Commerce for a threeyear term.

Associate Member News DeAngelis

McCormick

additions of Michael Danielson (pictured) as vice president – business banking and Nicole DeAngelis (pictured) as vice president – director of loan servicing. Wausau Peoples State Bank has announced the hire of Erin McCormick (pictured) as vice president and northern Wisconsin retail team leader.

Abraham

Davison

Volker

Fond du Lac The National Exchange Bank Foundation board has announced a $500,000 matching grant to the Fond du Lac Soccer

Davenport, Iowa Quad City Bank & Trust has promoted Kevin Volker (pictured) to assistant vice president – correspondent banking officer.

Colby Bank Donates New Scoreboard to Colby Hornets Football

Retirements

Waterloo Farmers and Merchants State Bank congratulates Kim Tomahawk Abraham (pictured) and Pam Tomahawk Community Bank has announced the appointment Davison (pictured) for their respective 20 years and 44 of Mark Zulliger (pictured) years of service and wishes as CEO. Former CEO Kathy them well in their retirements. Rankin will continue her leadership taking on the role Announcements of president and remaining Fitchburg on the board. Oak Bank has joined the community effort to Wauwatosa expand McKee Farms Park Joel Maske (pictured) now to include a playground that serves as the community president of WaterStone Bank’s is inclusive for all, including Germantown/Menomonee Falls children with disabilities, by contributing $10,000 to help branch. WaterStone Bank fund the project. has also announced the

Forward Bank donated a total of $32,000 in support of a custom designed scoreboard for the Colby Hornets football team. Installation of the new scoreboard will take place in the summer of 2022 and replace the existing 24-year-old sign. Pictured (left to right) are: Steve Kolden, spokesperson for the Colby Hornets; Traci Geiger, office manager at Forward Bank, Colby branch; Jessica Ressler, universal banker at Forward Bank; and Jim Hagen, Colby Hornets head football coach.

18

JUNE 2022

Your

EDUCATION Calendar Conferences I Summits

Schools I Boot Camps

Seminars I Workshops

WBA Webinars

Other Events

JUNE 2022

OCTOBER 2022 (continued)

• BOLT Summer Leadership Summit 9–10 Wisconsin Dells; $200/attendee

• Family-owned and Closely Held Bank Strategic Retreat 13–14 Madison

• Credit Analysis Boot Camp 22–23 Rothschild (Wausau area); $495/attendee 28

• Branch Manager Boot Camp: Session 2 4-part series; virtual half-days; $800/attendee

28

• Compliance Forum: Session 1 Wisconsin Dells; annual membership (pricing varies)

JULY 2022 26

• Branch Manager Boot Camp: Session 3 4-part series; virtual half-days; $800/attendee

• Community Bankers for Compliance (CBC) — Session III 26–27 Virtual half-days; membership (pricing options vary)

AUGUST 2022 • Agricultural Lending School 10–12 Madison; $895/attendee (an optional pre-school workshop is available on August 9) 18

• Chairman’s Member Appreciation Golf Outing Wisconsin Dells

• Branch Manager Boot Camp: Session 4 30 4-part series; virtual half-days; $800/attendee • HR Workshop TBD Location TBD; $245/attendee

• Supervisor Boot Camp 18–19 Madison; $535/attendee • FIPCO Software & Compliance Forum: Loan & Mortgage 19–20 Virtual

25 26

• Community Bankers for Compliance (CBC) — Session IV Stevens Point; membership (pricing options vary) Madison; membership (pricing options vary)

• IRA Essentials Workshops TBD Locations TBD; $245/attendee • Advanced IRA Workshops TBD Locations TBD; $245/attendee • Principles of Banking Course TBD Locations TBD; $550/attendee

NOVEMBER 2022 9

• BOLT Winter Leadership Summit Wisconsin Dells; $150/attendee

15

• Compliance Forum: Session 2 Wisconsin Dells; annual membership (pricing varies)

• LEAD360 Conference 16–17 Wisconsin Dells • Deposit Compliance School TBD Madison or virtual; $535/attendee • Personal Banker School TBD Madison; $495/attendee

SEPTEMBER 2022 • Management Conference (including tracks for CEOs, CFOs, CCOs, HR, and other bank leaders) 13–14 Wisconsin Dells • Secur-I.T. Conference (including tracks for BSA/AML, Operations, Security, and Technology) 20–21 Wisconsin Dells

OCTOBER 2022 • Commercial Lending School 12–14 Madison; $895/attendee

• Consumer Lending Boot Camp TBD Madison; $495/attendee

JANUARY 2023 • Community Bankers for Compliance (CBC) — Session I TBD Location TBD » Visit www.wisbank.com/education for more information and online registration. » Or email WBA Education at wbaeducation@ wisbank.com or call 608-441-1252.

19

JUNE 2022

Wisconsin Bankers Visit D.C. for Spring Summits

Thank you to the bankers who joined WBA in advocating for our industry! This spring, WBA staff and fellow Wisconsin bankers made the trek to Washington, D.C. to lobby on behalf of banks throughout the state. On March 7–9, eight bankers joined WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels at the WBA/ABA Washington Summit. On May 1–4, 19

bankers joined Oswald Poels and WBA Executive Vice President – Chief of Staff Daryll Lund at the WBA/ ICBA Capital Summit. Each year, WBA encourages bankers to attend a Washington summit for the purpose of advocating for the Wisconsin banking industry.

In addition, bankers have the opportunity to visit with those in our congressional delegation. WBA/ABA Washington Summit attendees met with Rep. Bryan Steil (R-District 1); Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-District 6); and Sen. Ron Johnson (R), in addition to several other offices.

Last month, WBA/ICBA Capital Summit attendees visited the offices of Rep. Bryan Steil (R-District 1); Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (R-District 5); Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-District 7); Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-District 8); Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-District 6); Sen. Ron Johnson (R); and Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D).

Thank you to those who attended this year’s spring summits in Washington, D.C.  WBA/ABA Washington Summit Attendees

|

March 7–9 

Ryan Boebel, Community First Bank, Baraboo · Robin Christian, Premier Bank, Marion · Bill Dyson, Ladysmith Federal Savings & Loan Association · Morgan Farmer, Park Bank, Holmen · Dave Feldhaus, Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago · Corey Hoze, Associated Bank, Milwaukee · Gary Kuter, Capitol Bank, Madison · Landon Turner, Oostburg State Bank · Rose Oswald Poels, Wisconsin Bankers Association, Madison.

 WBA/ABA ICBA Capital Summit Attendees

|

May 1– 4 

Steve Eager, State Bank of Cross Plains · Mark Erickson, MidWestOne Bank, Osceola · Dave Fink, Settlers Bank, Windsor · Brooke Frehse, The Stephenson National Bank & Trust, Marinette · Mike Gargaro, Citizens First Bank, Trempealeau · Barbara Gross, Bankers’ Bank, Madison · Dave Feldhaus, Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago · Jeff Gruetzmacher, Royal Bank, Lancaster · Ryan Kamphuis, Bristol Morgan Bank, Oakfield · Daryll Lund, Wisconsin Bankers Association, Madison · Paul Northway, American National Bank Fox Cities, Appleton · Dan Peterson, The Stephenson National Bank & Trust, Marinette · Rose Petitte, Horicon Bank · Tracey Pierce, Bank of Wisconsin Dells · Kevin Piette, State Bank of Cross Plains · Butch Pomeroy, International Bank, Amherst · Lonnie Przybylski, International Bank, Amherst · Dan Ravenscroft, Royal Bank, Elroy · Rose Oswald Poels, Wisconsin Bankers Association, Madison · Tom Spitz, Settlers Bank, Windsor · Kathy Strasser, Attendees met with Rep. Glenn Grothman at the WBA/ABA Summit. IncredibleBank, Wausau.

Wisconsin bankers attending the WBA/ABA Washington Summit in March visited the Wisconsin congressional delegation on Capitol Hill.

WBA/ICBA Capital Summit attendees met with Sen. Tammy Baldwin.

WBA/ICBA Capital Summit attendees spoke with Sen. Ron Johnson.

WBA/ABA Washington Summit attendees spoke with Rep. Bryan Steil.

20

JUNE 2022

June 1, 2021–May 31, 2022

A Year in Comment Letters This year, attorneys Heather MacKinnon, Scott Birrenkott, and President/CEO Rose Oswald Poels submitted 14 comment letters in response to requests for comment on rulemaking affecting the banking industry. Through this process, the WBA Legal Team was able to advocate on behalf of all WBA members for the betterment of the banking industry. From digital assets to examinations and fees, comment letters are a great opportunity for members of the banking industry to inform agencies about the impact of rulemaking and provide examples. As part of the rulemaking process within the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), all agencies are required to allow the public an opportunity to comment on proposed rules for a prescribed period (minimally 30 days). All WBA members are encouraged to share their comments with federal and state agencies as requested. Information regarding comment letters, or WBA-created letter templates — when available — are typically shared with the membership in the Wisconsin Banker Daily. Additional rulemaking developments at the federal level are compiled in the monthly WBA Compliance Journal.

The WBA Legal Department advocates for the industry by writing comment letters to federal and state regulators on proposals affecting the industry and by filing friendof-the-court briefs at the request of WBA members and per approval by the WBA Board of Directors.

WBA’s Legal Team MacKinnon

Birrenkott

Reiser

» WBA’s Legal Team includes (left to right); Vice President – Legal Heather MacKinnon; Director – Legal Scott Birrenkott; and Administrative Specialist Katie Reiser.

Once the public has commented, each agency must determine how to proceed given the feedback received. This year, the WBA Legal Team addressed four federal agencies and further helped inform said agencies on the impact of their proposed rulemaking.

Five Comment Letters Filed with the FDIC Over the past year, WBA filed five comment letters with Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Two of WBA’s letters commented on FDIC’s actions regarding examinations. In the first, WBA commented on the FDIC’s proposed hybrid approach to bank examinations and in the second, WBA commented on the post-examination surveys related to FDIC Safety and Soundness and Consumer Compliance examinations. In each letter, WBA emphasized the importance of the FDIC establishing consistent coordination and communication with banks. Three Comment Letters Filed with the CFPB WBA wrote three letters this year to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Most recently, WBA responded to CFPB’s concerns regarding products which feature “junk fees,” assuring CFPB that the Wisconsin financial services marketplace

is competitive, featuring a diverse range of high-quality, convenient, innovative, and competitively priced products and services. Additionally, WBA highlighted that, despite CFPB’s concerns, the market is highly regulated, and that further rulemaking is unnecessary as fees are already subject to disclosure requirements.

Four Comment Letters Filed with the FRB This year, WBA also filed four comment letters with Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (FRB). In one of the letters, WBA addressed FRB’s request for comment regarding the evaluation of account and services requests. WBA acknowledged FRB’s attempt to create consistency, but ultimately expressed concern with allowing access to the payment system by entities with little or no regulatory oversight, lack of protection, and minimal capital and liquidity requirements, among others. WBA proposed that FRB establish standards or requirements for users, maintain ongoing review of those involved, as well as coordinate an FRB-led evaluation committee. One Comment Letter Filed with the OCC In a letter filed with the Office of the Comptroller of

the Currency (OCC), WBA was able to comment on a final rule to adopt a new Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) framework. This regulation facilitated the issuance of joint CRA to an interagency basis which would allow for greater coordination on all CRA ruling between the OCC, FRB, and FDIC for the benefit of banks serving low- and moderateincome communities.

One Interagency Comment Letter Filed Some rulemakings are issued on an interagency basis. This year, WBA commented on the FRB, FDIC, and OCC’s proposed interagency guidance on third-party relationships related to risk management. In the letter, WBA commented that this effort would promote consistency in their guidance as well as clearly articulate risk-based principles. In addition, WBA identified several ways Wisconsin banks will be impacted by the new guidance during final implementation. Conclusion Industry comment is a critical aspect to the rulemaking process. It is an opportunity for the industry’s voice to be heard, and it is important that the agencies hear from banks about how rulemaking affects you. WBA welcomes feedback on comment letters because it is key that we, and the agencies, hear directly from members. For more information on the rulemaking process, comments, and upcoming rules, contact the WBA Legal Department at wbalegal@ wisbank.com. For a full list of the comment letters filed during the 2021–22 fiscal year, visit www.wisbank.com/advocacy/ comment-letter-library.

21

JUNE 2022

Introducing…

A New, Association-wide Employee Resource Group Creating a welcoming space for people with underrepresented identities in industry By Rose Oswald Poels About two years ago, the Wisconsin Bankers Association Board formalized a plan to build out the association’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. Since then, a DEI Advisory Group has been established and meeting regularly to help drive WBA’s initiatives, including the development of a sample DEI policy for banks, the production of the Diverse Voices in Banking video series, the publication of DEI-related articles and

WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels

DEI Resources: • www.wisbank.com/ community/dei-resources.

WBA Connect DEI Peer Group: • www.wisbank.com/ community/wba-connect.

resources for bankers, various education sessions at conferences and stand-alone programs, and the formation of a WBA Connect DEI Peer Group. The horrific, racially motivated shooting on May 14 in Buffalo, New York underscores the need to double down on our efforts and do more for our colleagues WBA DEI Advisory Group Members of color and from other » Patty Chambers, chief human underrepresented backgrounds resources officer, Charter Bank, who are acutely experiencing Eau Claire the effects of yet another act » Steve Eager, market president, State of violence and hatred. Bank of Cross Plains, Evansville The next component of » Raquel Filmanowicz, director — WBA’s DEI plan is the economic equity advisory group, formation of an Employee BMO Harris Bank, Milwaukee Resource Group (ERG) » Andrea Finck, vice president of community relations, Old National for bankers from underrepresented backgrounds. Bank, Madison The ERG is designed to be » Shay Horton, president, a safe space for bankers to Cumberland Federal Bank, FSB meet virtually for one hour » Nina Johnson, senior vice president, U.S. Bank, Milwaukee approximately once per month in an open-forum discussion » Adam Knoll, vice president, Partners Bank of Wisconsin, Stratford to share feelings, concerns, » Chandra Rodgers, MSM, senior vice and frustrations as well as president community affairs/CRA positive developments related officer, Associated Bank, Milwaukee to DEI. A moderator will » Hailey Schultz, human resources lead each session, and group manager, The Stephenson members are encouraged National Bank & Trust, Marinette to bring up topics that they » WBA Staff: Rose Oswald Poels, would like to talk about with president and CEO; Lori Kalscheuer, one another. director— education; and ERGs provide a space for Cassandra Krause, communications manager groups of people who share a

“Our organizations benefit when we bring our authentic selves to the workplace, and I am excited about the ways this ERG will help bankers from underrepresented backgrounds build high-trust relationships.”

common identity to voluntarily network and engage in employee-led conversation. ERGs also attract new employees and retain existing employees. WBA members have expressed a desire for WBA to organize a group to serve bankers statewide, as many member banks do not have the resources to offer this type of group on their own. The ERG is open to employees of banks of all sizes. Employees of small banks can benefit from connecting with people from backgrounds that may not be widely represented at their own bank, while employees from large banks that may already have ERGs can benefit from perspectives outside their own organization. The ERG is a place to share experiences, ask questions, and find mentorship. Through this ERG, WBA seeks to support inclusivity at a statewide level across the banking industry. The first meeting will be held virtually from 11 a.m.–Noon on Thursday, June 9, 2022. This meeting will aim to provide a discussion space and explore the ways the group can serve the members going forward. The first meeting will include people from a variety of underrepresented

The Employee Resource Group is designed to be a safe place for bankers from underrepresented backgrounds to meet virtually for an hour each month in an open-forum discussion regarding DEI matters. backgrounds and gauge interest in branching into more focused ERGs.

Employee Resource Group (ERG) virtual meeting: Thursday, June 9, 11 a.m.– Noon. Visit www.wisbank. com/dei/erg-signup to sign up to participate.

Our organizations benefit when we bring our authentic selves to the workplace, and I am excited about the ways this ERG will help bankers from underrepresented backgrounds build high-trust relationships and thrive in their careers. I encourage bank leaders to invite their staff to sign up to participate in this opportunity at wisbank.com/ dei/erg-signup. Oswald Poels is WBA president and CEO.

Staff Change? Address Change? Let WBA Know Getting information to the right person quickly is critical in these challenging times. Has there been a personnel change at your bank, or are WBA’s mailings targeted to the wrong staff? Please send your address corrections and/or additions to our database administrator, WBA Assistant Director – IT Randy Molepske, at 608-441-1212 or requests@ wisbank.com.

22

JUNE 2022

Effects of COVID-19 (continued from p. 1) “Often times, customer ‘protocols’ are framed negatively in the eye of the customer,” says Mike Parnon, architect at Brookfield-based BrandPoint Design. “It is important that banks are able to find a balance in improving overall customer experience by conveying their attentiveness to both financial and physical health.” Mandates set in place during COVID at the state and federal level stressed the importance of complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). This civil rights law, and code for

Educating the customer is critical in an institution with environmental changes. — Mark Parnon, architect BrandPoint Design Brookfield

contractors, emphasizes the accessibility of public spaces. The pandemic highlighted for businesses throughout the state the need to further prioritize safe, accessible spaces for all. Be it expanding mobile banking applications, so customers have access to their money wherever, or integrating more private spaces into bank designs — Wisconsin banks have taken full advantage of these COVID-19-related constraints to create opportunities for their customers. “The health, safety, and well-being of our employees, customers, and community will always be a top priority for Bank First,” said Rachel Oakes, marketing communications manager at Bank First in Manitowoc. “While office cleanliness and sanitation were always a part of our procedures, COVID has

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redefined many things. We will continue enhanced sanitation procedures and offer hand sanitizer at our offices.” During the peak of the pandemic in 2020, banks throughout the state established COVID committees tasked with monitoring, planning, and communicating critical information related to COVIDrelated guidance onto bank employees and customers. As guidance, even today, continues to evolve, one thing remains the same — daily cleaning and sanitation of all workstations and highcontact surfaces continues to be implemented at most Wisconsin banks. While some procedures have been eradicated since early 2020, many of them have provided opportunities to further invest in the interest of both the customer and bank employees. “There is a greater awareness of health and public safety and [Bank First] has found that staff and guests are very understanding of any continued procedures and are thankful to see the end of some stricter protocols.” added Oakes. Since the onset of COVID, community areas in bank branches have shifted their look and feel as well. While many areas remain open for additional seating, coffee and snack stations have either closed or shifted to individually packaged items. In addition, some banks, such as National Bank of Commerce in Superior, have closed their restrooms to the public unless specifically requested by a branch. “National Bank of Commerce’s approach to protect our associates, customers, and the community, driven by our Business Continuity Plan, helped inform our desire to do what is right for our community,” said Lindsey Growette Stingle, senior vice president — human resources at National Bank of Commerce. “I believe that our

The health, safety, and wellbeing of our employees, customers, and community will always be a top priority. — Rachel Oakes marketing communications manager Bank First, Manitowoc

associates have adapted well to the ever-changing environment and have shown a willingness to be flexible with the ultimate priority being the safety of their fellow associates, customers, and the community.” As banks continue to balance differing customer needs in terms of health and safety in their offices, many continue to offer optional protection measures. “At National Bank of Commerce, hand sanitizer, masks, and (requested) rapid tests are still available to all associates,” says Growette Stingle. Additionally, many other Wisconsin banks continue to offer plexiglass shields at teller lines for bankers and customers who wish to use them and have incorporated remote options — either on a case-by-case basis or for those whose position allows. “Educating the customer is critical in an institution with environmental changes,” states Parnon. “Finding productive ways to inform clients of [the bank’s] position regarding health, safety, comfort, and service is the first step in achieving good practices.” While banks continue to update their COVID-related guidelines for both their staff and customers, creating safe and healthy spaces for community members has always been a priority for Wisconsin banks. While this may mean the sanitation of pens or the closure of specific areas, it is all done with the best interest of the community in mind. (continued on p. 23)

JUNE 2022

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Your Next Exam is Scheduled. Are You Prepared to Handle It? By Jeff Schmid, CRCM, CERP Whether it’s your first exam or twentieth, the notion that your regulator expects to perform a deep dive of your operations, lending, compliance, finances, IT, and BSA can send a banker screaming into the night. But it does not have to be that way if you are prepared to handle it. Certainly, there is a new dynamic in the format in which these exams are being carried out today. In most cases, they continue to be remote. This might sound like relief, however, the constant barrage of electronic communications and delayed responses by both parties is far from utopia. In fact, most bank CEOs who have gone through this process in the last 12 months have reported dismay and frustration with the overall process as compared to the onsite visits we had pre-pandemic. So, what is a banker to do? First, treat the exam as if it were actually taking place onsite and dedicate your calendar accordingly. When the bank I worked for was being examined, I made sure I cleared my calendar for several days in order to respond to examiner questions and additional requests. The sooner we could

FIPCO’s ShareFI Jeff Schmid

Contact Jeff Schmid at 608-441-1220 or jschmid@fipco.com to learn how ShareFI can help you.

conclude the exam, the faster we got back to carrying out normal business. Working remotely allows examiners to be a little more flexible with their workload and that alone may change your expectations. Next, use the Compliance Information and Document Request (CIDR) to your advantage. The regulator has shown their hand on what they expect to examine, and given you plenty of opportunity to gather the documentation and answer the questions well in advance. As you answer the questions and supply the samples, take a few minutes to review them yourself to be sure there is no ambiguity in what you are delivering. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of aggravation. Know your examiner and set expectations. During the initial call, be sure to schedule future daily calls with your

examiner at the onset of the exam. During prior exams, it was too easy to just pop in for updates. In today’s environment, everything is more structured. To pass on the opportunity to dialogue with your examiner regularly through the entire process will only delay the exam itself. Keep your uploads handy. Since examiners do not have the benefit of flipping through paper reports or files, it can be increasingly difficult to find an electronic document. This process alone makes the review take twice as long as it normally would and results in examiner requests for something you have already uploaded. Be sure to have these files at the ready, so you can resend or resubmit on the fly and clear any potential violations. Until the agencies can develop a centralized

process or system for better file submission, I’m afraid this obstacle will follow us for some time to come. Finally — communicate, communicate, communicate. Be sure all members of your bank staff are engaged during the remote calls, including any outside vendors who can assist with clarifications or resolutions. I have found that there is nothing worse than a key employee not participating in a call who was in the best position to answer the question immediately. After you receive your call from the supervisory examiner, feel free to reach out to our ShareFI team to see how we can assist you through this remote exam process and make it more valuable to your team. There is value in ShareFI. Schmid is FIPCO director – compliance and management services

CYNET STOPS RANSOMWARE

BEFORE IT STOPS YOU Effects of COVID-19 (continued from p. 22) Although the number of COVID cases throughout the state continues to decrease, banks carry on their commitment to their communities in everything they do. While these positive healthrelated activities are far from unheard of (even pre-COVID), the heightened public awareness of safe, hygienic spaces caused by the pandemic has allowed room for more solutions

I believe that our associates have adapted well to the ever-changing environment and have shown a willingness to be flexible.

As the world’s first autonomous breach protection platform, Cynet provides banks complete automation of monitoring and control, attack prevention and detection, and response orchestration.

— Lindsey Growette Stingle senior vice president — human resources National Bank of Commerce, Superior

that encourage both accessibility and connection. Flanders is WBA writer/editor. BrandPoint Design is a WBA Associate Member.

fipcosales@fipco.com

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JUNE 2022

The Wisconsin Bankers Foundation Awards Spring Scholarships Four students receive scholarship to UW institutions Each year, the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation (WBF) in collaboration with the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) Retail Banking Committee awards four students enrolled in an accredited Wisconsin college, university, or technical school a $2,000 scholarship to offset the cost of tuition. This year, high school and

Learn more at www.wisbank.com/ foundation-scholarships.

college students throughout the state were encouraged to creatively demonstrate their

financial literacy capabilities and resources. The Foundation is pleased to announce that four current or committed University of Wisconsin System students have been selected to receive the $2,000 Spring Scholarships for the 2022–23 school year. Congratulations to Clarke Mouw, junior at UW-Eau Claire; Grace Reek, senior

at Hamilton High School in Sussex; Anna Rolfs, senior at Williams Bay High School; and Brady Snedden, first-year student at UW-La Crosse! WBF and the WBA Retail Committee members thank those students who applied to this year’s scholarship and wish the best of luck to each student in their future educational endeavors.

Congratulations to This Year’s Scholarship Recipients! Good luck in your future endeavors! Clarke Mouw

Grace Reek

Anna Rolfs

Brady Snedden

WBA Associate Members

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Wisconsin Banker occasionally prints informative articles submitted by Gold, Silver, and Bronze WBA Associate Members. Interested in sharing your expertise? Please contact WBA’s Cassandra Krause at 608-441-1216 or ckrause@wisbank.com or email sales@wisbank.com for more information about purchasing Sponsored Content space in WBA’s electronic publications.

Mackinac Credit + Compliance www.maccreditcomp.com Contact: Kelly George Garden, Mich. Tel: 906-286-1445 kgeorge@maccreditcomp.com

The WBA has approved the following service providers as new WBA Associate Members. Coro Cybersecurity www.coro.net Contact: John M. Tarantino, Esq. Naperville, Ill. Tel: 630-362-6339 john.tarantino@coro.net

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ing all-in-one cybersecurity platform. They provide enterprise-grade security as a service to companies of every size at a price any business can afford. Coro protects devices, networks, email, popular cloud apps including Office 365,

Mackinac Credit + Compliance

(MCC) aims to be a collaborative and value-added service partner for community banks to help them better position themselves for growth amongst the multiple financial services conduits operating within their traditional community bank space. MCC is led by community banking professionals that focus on assisting community banks manage their bottom line in terms of staff and technology more efficiently through shared services to oversee various risk areas within the ever-evolving regulatory environment. WBA Associate membership should not be construed as an endorsement of the company’s products or services by the WBA.

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JUNE 2022

Now’s the Time to Review Your Coverage

EBC and MBIS offer flexible security for WBA-member banks By Daryll J. Lund As National Insurance Awareness Day approaches on June 28, all WBA-member banks should take a moment this month to review their insurance policies. While this is good practice in preventing certain aspects of the bank from going underinsured, it is also important to verify your bank and employees are getting the best offers for the best price. The Wisconsin Bankers Association – Employee Benefits Corporation (WBA EBC) offers WBA-member banks competitively priced plans covering life and disability, dental, medical, prescription drug, and vision insurance. Our flexible plans allow Wisconsin community

Association Update Daryll J. Lund

bankers the purchasing power usually only offered to larger groups and access to an online insurance portal. Contact Brian Siegenthaler at 608-441-1211 or bsiegenthaler@wisbank.com to learn more. Additionally, Midwest Bankers Insurance Services (MBIS), co-owned by WBA, offers banks throughout Wisconsin security with three distinct lines of coverage — professional lines (FI bond, D&O liability, and cyber liability), property casualty

MIDWEST BANKERS Insurance Services

> For more details, please contact EBC’s Brian Siegenthaler at 608-441-1211 or bsiegenthaler@wisbank.com, or contact MBIS’s Jeff Otteson at 608-217-5219 or jeffo@mbisllc.com.

lines (building, liability, business auto, workers compensation, and umbrella liability), and lending-related lines (mortgage protection/ E&O, lenders single interest, force placed hazard, and flood). These coverage lines protect banks across the Midwest and allow them to stay ahead of the unexpected. MBIS offers solutions and protection from the best carriers in the insurance industry. Contact Jeff Otteson at 608-217-5219 or jeffo@mbisllc.com to learn

more about enrollment. As uncertainty in our daily lives remain — be certain that WBA EBC and MBIS are here to offer the best, competitively priced policies for both your bank and employees. Take the first step in strengthening your employee benefits package or bank coverage lines this June by enrolling with WBA Insurance Services! Lund is WBA executive vice president — chief of staff and president of EBC and MBIS.

Have you visited your Group System Benefits Portal? Our innovative online system for streamlined insurance and human resources tasks has been helping over 120 banks with enhanced services, better transparency on costs, and expenses since October 2020.

Benefits Portal allows administrators to: • • • • •

Manage employees Process transactions Search plan resources Create custom reports And more

Go to the WBA EBC website at www.wisbankins.com and click Benefits Portal Log In to access the login page.

Brian Siegenthaler

|

bsiegenthaler@wisbank.com

|

608-441-1211

|

www.wisbankins.com

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JUNE 2022

Community Advocate of the Month Wisconsin’s bankers are the definition of “community advocates” in all that you do every day to improve your local economy through your bank’s products and services, as well as through your generous philanthropy of time and money. This column shares and celebrates the diverse backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and innovation of some of the extraordinary bankers in this state. Rose Oswald Poels

Q&A

The following is a brief interview between WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels and Black River Country Bank, Black River Falls President and CEO Bob Becker. Read past interviews at www.wisbank.com.

Rose: How did you first get into the banking industry?

Bob: When I enrolled at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, I had plans of becoming an engineer, but like many young adults, I changed my mind and ultimately decided to obtain a degree in business administration. During that time, I became especially Bob Becker interested in the economic classes I was taking, and that helped me start thinking about a career in banking. Fortunately for me, when I graduated, my local bank was looking for a loan officer, and I was lucky enough to be chosen for the job. What is your favorite aspect of your role at your bank? I have two favorite aspects of my role with our bank. The first is the ability to interact within our local community. Starting out as a loan officer, I was able to help people make some of the most important decisions in their lives happen. Helping people with buying a new car, buying a home, starting a business, or expanding the family farm — it is extremely enjoyable to help them reach their goals and dreams. As my career progressed and my leadership role in the bank expanded, it has been a joy to expand that interaction to larger community initiatives. I take great pride in what we have been able to do to help the Jackson County communities thrive and prosper. The second is leading a great group of fellow employees and helping them establish the foundation for a commitment to our bank and our community. These commitments help us establish a true family amongst our employees and customers. I was fortunate to have three great mentors when I started in banking, Winston Zeman, Glen Goeman, and Steve Zeman. Each was a great community banker, and I can only hope that I have been able to pass on some of what they willingly passed on to me. What do you wish the general public understood about the banking industry? I would like the general public to understand what a good, strong community bank can do for a local economy. It is a strong employer for the local economy. It reinvests in the local economy. It supports the local charitable organizations in the local economy. It lends leadership to many of the local organizations. It supports youth organizations and activities with sponsorships. It supports young adults with college scholarships. And it supplies the banking services that you need, in the convenient fashion that you would

like, and at the lowest possible cost that is maintainable. In today’s world, we all have more and more options for our needs and services, but if we look at all the good that a local community bank does for its community, why would we ever consider the financial services choices we can make that don’t include a great personal relationship with your local community banker. 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 3–5 years is continuing to safeguard the personal information and financial assets of our customers. The ever-expanding desire and need for instant and convenient access to our money and financial information is a huge challenge for the industry. We are committed to delivering as much of this to our customers as possible, but it comes with added challenges. It seems like the financial and cyber exploitation business is growing by leaps and bounds. Trying to stay in front of these organizations is a daunting task. Every day, bankers serve their local communities by helping their customers achieve their financial dreams. Please describe your current role at your bank and share with us one of your more rewarding experiences. I have been with the Black River Country Bank for 35 years, and I currently serve as president and chief executive officer, along with being the president of the bank’s holding company, BRAD, Inc. My most rewarding experience is our Community Good Neighbor Day. This is a day that we as a group choose to participate in and help out our community members who need a helping hand. We have a local organization that we work with that allows us to identify local households that may need help with fall cleanup of their property. Our bank family breaks up into small groups and participates in a day of helping clean yards, some that were planned ahead of time and some that just happen on the spur of the moment. The joy of the day is not only seeing the good you do, but seeing how the employee family works together to accomplish as many things as possible and also the joy that is delivered to the recipients who can have one worry taken off their shoulders. Oswald Poels is WBA president and CEO | ropoels@wisbank.com 608-441-1200 | Twitter: @RoseOswaldPoels Do you know a banker who should be recognized as a Community Advocate for the work that they do? Nominate them today by emailing Rose at ropoels@wisbank.com.

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JUNE 2022

Bankers Marketplace www.wisbank.com/classifieds H E L P WA N T E D Chief Credit Officer and Commercial Loan Officer At Bluff View Bank, we strive to provide exceptional customer service. To accomplish this mission, we are looking for people who are passionate about providing a great customer service experience. We love people who have a positive attitude, are self-motivated, and look to go above and beyond for the good of customers and co-workers alike. Qualifications for Bluff View Bank’s Chief Credit Officer & Commercial Loan Officer position are: a bachelor’s degree in business or finance preferred; five or more years in lending through a financial institution or a related field; knowledge of laws and regulations affecting loan underwriting and regulatory compliance; prior management experience is desired; the ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization and to outside parties; excellent oral and written communication skills; the ability to maintain and prepare confidential records and reports as well as analyze statistical and financial data; presentation of a professional image and attitude; proactive and positive attitude toward customers, direct reports, supervisor, and co-workers; proficiency in Microsoft Office products, including but not limited to Word, Excel, and Outlook. If you are interested in working for a local, independent community bank, please visit bluffviewbank.com to learn more. Applications will be accepted online or in person. Bluff View Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Member FDIC. Ag Loan Officer State Bank of Reeseville – Watertown is seeking an Ag Loan Officer. This position is responsible for soliciting, negotiating,

Want to See More Ads? Visit www.wisbank.com/classifieds to view a full listing of job postings or for more information on placing or responding to an ad. underwriting, and servicing a variety of agricultural loans and coordinating the closing of agricultural-related loans in compliance with the bank’s lending policies and procedures. The position also conducts interviews with applicants and recommend approval of customer applications for agricultural loans, analyzes applicant financial status and credit to determine feasibility of granting loan, approves loan within established limits or refers loan to loan committee for approval, and verifies loan agreements are complete and accurate according to policy. Applicants should be familiar with standard concepts, practices and procedures within a particular field, have a certain degree of creativity and latitude, and understand their responsibility in developing business checking and deposit relationships with customers as well as promoting business for the bank by maintaining sound customer relations. Qualified applicants may contact Jayne Adams at jaynea@statebankof reeseville.com to learn more about this position. Equal Opportunity Employer — Member FDIC. Commercial Loan Officer State Bank of Reeseville – Watertown is seeking a Commercial Loan Officer. This position is responsible for soliciting, negotiating, underwriting, servicing a variety of commercial loans, and coordinating the closing of commercial related loans in compliance with the bank’s lending policies and procedures. The position also conducts interviews with applicants and recommend

Advertise Your Next Job Opening with WBA in Wisconsin Banker Are you looking to get the word out about a career working at your bank? The best way to attract dedicated and highly skilled employees is to post in Wisconsin Banker! Wisconsin Banker goes out to an estimated readership of 9,000 people every month, and each published advertisement includes a digital posting on WBA’s website as well. WBA makes it easy to advertise your new job opening along with its responsibilities, requirements, and location, so you can find the perfect candidate for every new position at your bank. To find out more about advertising career opportunities at your bank, email bankersmarketplace@wisbank.com or go to www.wisbank.com/classifieds.

approval of customer applications for commercial loans, analyzes applicant financial status and credit to determine feasibility of granting loan, approves loan within established limits or refers loan to loan committee for approval, and verifies loan agreements are complete and accurate according to policy. Applicants should be familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field; have a certain degree of creativity and latitude; and understand their responsibility in developing business checking and deposit relationships with customers as well as promoting business for the bank by maintaining sound customer relations. Qualified applicants may contact Jayne Adams at jaynea@statebankof reeseville.com to learn more about this position. Equal Opportunity Employer — Member FDIC. Universal Banker State Bank of Reeseville – Watertown is a tried-and-true independent community bank. We are all about relationship banking with a personal touch, investing in our communities, and providing service and value to our customers. This position functions as the bank’s primary contact with the public

and is an experienced sales associate responsible for initiating and developing and maintaining profitable personal and business deposit customer relationships through excellent customer service, cross sales, referrals, and consumer lending as well as process and compliance knowledge. The position requires the individual to be responsible for listening and meeting customer needs and concerns and understanding and suggesting bank products to meet customer financial needs. The position requires a high level of accuracy, confidentiality, and flexibility. This position requires a working knowledge of policies, procedures in retail banking with a focus on servicing customer’s needs. This position requires working directly with customers and may occasionally perform transactions while paying particular attention to managing and balancing cash drawers and will also act in defined leadership roles in the absence of the manager. Applicant must be friendly, motivated, team orientated, and possess a positive attitude. Interested applicants may submit a resume and cover letter to Jayne Adams at jaynea@statebankofreeseville.com. Equal Opportunity Employer — Member FDIC.

W ISC ONSIN WBA Mission Statement

BA NK ER

We promote a healthy environment for banks in Wisconsin through actively advocating, educating, and supporting our members. Association Officers:

Daniel J. Peterson (Chair), President/CEO, The Stephenson National Bank & Trust, Marinette Donna J. Hoppenjan (Chair-Elect), President/CEO, Mound City Bank, Platteville Alvaro Araque (Vice Chair), Senior Vice President, Director of Consumer and Private Banking, Johnson Financial Group, Racine Kenneth D. Thompson (Past Chair), President/CEO, Capitol Bank, Madison Rose Oswald Poels, President/CEO, Wisconsin Bankers Association, Madison Association Board of Directors: James R. Chatterton, President National Exchange Bank & Trust, Fond du Lac Paul A. Hoffmann, President/CEO Monona Bank Ryan T. Kamphuis, President/CEO Bristol Morgan Bank, Oakfield Greg Lundberg, President/CEO Fortifi Bank, Berlin Jay C. Mack, President/CEO Town Bank, N.A., Hartland Thomas Mews, President First National Community Bank, New Richmond

Paul J. Northway, President/CEO American National Bank Fox Cities, Appleton Greg A. Ogren, President/CEO Security Bank Shares, Inc., Iron River Joe Peikert, President/CEO Wolf River Community Bank, Hortonville Jennifer L. Provancher, President/CEO The Equitable Bank, S.S.B., Wauwatosa Daniel J. Ravenscroft, President/CEO Royal Bank, Elroy Teresa (Terry) Rosengarten, President/Chief Operating Officer Unity Bank, Augusta

Wisconsin Banker is published by Wisconsin Bankers Association, 4721 South Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718; Telephone: 608-441-1200; Fax: 608-661-9381; www.wisbank.com. Cassandra Krause, Editor 608-441-1216 ckrause@wisbank.com

Advertising: sales@wisbank.com

To report a change of address, 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 to 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.

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JUNE 2022

SBA LENDING MADE EASY. Are you looking for ways to better support your small business customers or generate new customers? Adding SBA lending to your portfolio allows you to provide financing to creditworthy small businesses. Partnering with Bankers’ Bank makes offering SBA 7(a) loans easy, our experts help with eligibility review, loan packaging and secondary market sale. We know not every bank is the same, we tailor our program to fit your needs so you can do SBA Your Way.

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