Professional development can provide bankers with new perspectives, practical tools and connections that strengthen both their careers and their organizations. Through its partnership with the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the Illinois Bankers Association is proud to help make those opportunities possible for our members.
This year, three Illinois bankers received IBA scholarships to participate in Graduate School of Banking programs:
- Zach Lammers, Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking, INB, N.A.
- Ryan Johnson, Vice President, Blackhawk Bank & Trust
- Nathan Youngblood, Vice President, Human Resources Officer, Blackhawk Bank & Trust
Graduate School of Banking Scholarship Recipients
Lammers and Johnson received scholarships to attend the Graduate School of Banking, a 25-month leadership development program that provides a comprehensive look at banking while helping participants strengthen their leadership and critical-thinking skills.
For Lammers, his first year at GSB provided both an academic challenge and an opportunity to broaden his perspective. Coursework covered nearly every area of banking, including marketing, information technology, lending, leadership and finance.
“The information they shared was not only relevant, but also immediately applicable to my role,” Lammers said. “I returned with new ideas, a broader perspective on the banking industry, and practical tools that I can use.”
He also pointed to the relationships built outside the classroom as one of the most rewarding parts of the experience and looks forward to returning for the next two years to complete the program.
Johnson similarly described GSB as one of the most valuable professional development experiences of his career. During his first-year session, he joined 156 other students for courses covering leadership development, loan portfolio management, financial management and other areas of banking.
“One major topic in our curriculum was AI in banking, something that will certainly influence how banks operate in the future,” Johnson said.
He also emphasized the value of connecting with bankers from across the country, noting that the relationships developed through GSB will continue well beyond the program.
Human Resource Management School Scholarship Recipient
Youngblood received an IBA scholarship to attend GSB’s Human Resource Management School, an intensive program designed specifically for HR professionals in financial services. After 16 years in an HR management role at Blackhawk Bank & Trust, Youngblood said the program strengthened his understanding of both the business of banking and the important role HR plays in organizational success.
“The program provided valuable insight into the business of banking and reinforced the importance of building and sustaining a strong organizational culture,” Youngblood said.
Sessions provided practical knowledge in succession planning, compensation, employee retention, emotional intelligence and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in HR and banking. Youngblood also valued the opportunity to exchange ideas and best practices with fellow HR professionals.
Invest in Your Professional Growth
The IBA is committed to helping members access educational opportunities that build stronger bankers, leaders and organizations. Scholarships available through the IBA can help members take the next step in their professional development while bringing new knowledge and ideas back to their banks.
Could a GSB program be your next professional development opportunity? Learn more about available scholarships and upcoming application opportunities.