YEAR IN REVIEW
President's Message
This was a landmark year for Wisconsin’s banking industry. Our major advocacy win — achieving a state tax exemption on certain agricultural and business loans under $5 million — was a testament to the perseverance of Wisconsin Bankers Association members over many years. It is energizing to see the many tangible ways our industry benefits when we work together as an association.
It is our goal at WBA to serve our state’s banks and bankers as the “goto” resource for advocacy, education, and products and services. I am proud to say that WBA earned a “Top Workplaces” distinction from the Wisconsin State Journal this year, which reflects the dedication of our staff to the highest levels of positivity and professionalism. Just like our members, WBA staff is committed to the success of the banking industry and to the prosperity of the Wisconsin communities we call home.
Thank you for your membership in WBA. The people are truly what make all the difference; your support and active involvement ensure that our institutions will continue to be pillars of thriving communities.
Outgoing Chair’s Message
Over the past year, we, as an association, have focused on a theme of “inspiration.” Whether it be getting involved in advocacy, taking advantage of educational opportunities to grow your expertise, or promoting careers in banking to support our industry’s talent pipeline — this “Year in Review” makes it clear to see that WBA members felt the spark and got involved.
As I look ahead to my retirement, I am confident that the next generation of bankers is in a strong position to continue the success of our industry. I hope those who continue in this profession find as much enjoyment and fulfillment as I have had. Thank you to WBA for the honor of serving as Chair and for your steadfast support of Wisconsin’s banking industry.
Donna Hoppenjan 2023–2024 WBA Chair
Mound City Bank, Platteville, President and CEO
Our Mission:
We actively advocate for, educate, and support our members to help them positively impact the Wisconsin communities they serve.
41 35
banks earned WBA’s Gold Triangle Award, our highest level of recognition for bank fundraising, apportioned by bank asset size.
banks earned the Bankers Involved in Grassroots and Government (BIGG) Award, WBA’s highest achievement level for bank involvement and advocacy.
183 $244,627
banks designated Advocacy Officers, who serve as government relations points of contact for their banks.
in contributions were given by WBAmember employees, directors, and others to WBA’s political action funds: Wisbankpac and the ABW political conduit.
11 74 210 79
bankers earned the Leadership Circle Award for contributing at least $3,000 to Wisbankpac, ABW, or issue advocacy funds.
earned the Silver Triangle Award for contributing at least $1,000 to Wisbankpac, ABW, or issue
members attended WBA Capitol Day in Madison, and 30 attended a Washington, D.C. trip.
candidates and four legislative party candidate committees – on both sides of the aisle – at the state level received support from WBA political action funds.
69 14 10 40
bills are currently being tracked or monitored by WBA of the 2,342 bills introduced in the State Legislature during the 2023–2024 legislative session.
2,172
Legal Call Program calls were answered, a 3% increase over the last fiscal year.
5
WBA legislative priorities or WBAinfluenced bills were introduced during 2023–2024 legislative session.
comment letters were submitted on behalf of the membership. press releases were issued.
6,055 80 406 5 3,1
attendees took part in WBA-hosted training events.
educational opportunities were hosted by WBA.
bankers completed a multi-day WBA School or Boot Camp.
complimentary member webinars were offered in 2023–2024.
30 videos were produced. advocacy funds.
Three Legal Live and one Advocacy Live events were hosted, and the monthly WBA Compliance Corner was produced, receiving over 100 views each month.
89
CEOnly/CFOnly questions were moderated.
3,000 6 255 92 200
Careers in Banking events were held on five UW campuses, reaching more than 200 students.
