Illinois Banker Magazine | March - April 2024

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OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Thomas Chamberlain Chair

Iroquois Federal Savings & Loan Association

Anthony Nestler Chair-Elect

Hickory Point Bank and Trust

REGION 1

Rudy Gonzalez CIBC Bank USA

Frank Pettaway The Northern Trust Company

REGION 2

Peter Brummel Grundy Bank

Courtney Olson First Bank Chicago

REGION 3

Lawrence Horvath Heartland Bank & Trust Company

Kathy Williamson Bank of Farmington

T.J. Burge Vice Chair

Community Partners Savings Bank

Megan Collins Treasurer Bank of America

Frank Pettaway

Member-at-Large

The Northern Trust Company

Courtney Olson Member-at-Large First Bank Chicago

Betsy Johnson

Immediate Past Chair Solutions Bank

THE 2023-2024

IBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

REGION 4

Scott Bland First Neighbor Bank N.A.

Brett Tiemann INB, National Association

REGION 5

Rick Parks First National Bank of Waterloo

Bethany Shaw Peoples National Bank, N.A.

FUTURE LEADERS

ALLIANCE

Lora Kalka FNBC Bank & Trust

MEMBERSAT-LARGE

Gustavus Bahr PNC Bank, N.A.

J. David Conterio Hometown National Bank

David Doedtman Washington Savings Bank

Brian Hannon

Cornerstone National Bank & Trust Company

Robert Kelly Old National Bank

Karlie Krehbiel Lisle Savings Bank

Ted Macon

Farmers State Bank of Hoffman

Michele Petrie

Village Bank & Trust, N.A.

Amy Randolph Busey Bank

Timothy Smigiel Liberty Bank for Savings

Matthew Smith First Mid Bank & Trust, N.A.

Dan Wujek State Bank of Cherry

ILLINOIS BANKERS ASSOCIATION STAFF DIRECTORY

Two Offices to Serve You! Springfield Office: 800-783-2265 • Chicago Office: 800-878-2265 To connect with our staff, use this email format: firstinitiallastname@illinois.bank

Executive Administration

Randy Hultgren, President & CEO

Erich Bloxdorf, Executive Vice President and COO/Interim Marketing Projects Manager

Mindy Manci, Executive Assistant & HR Manager

Pam Macha, Springfield Office Coordinator

Finance and Administration

Mark Bennett, CPA

Executive Vice President and CFO

Tammy Squires, Vice President, Data and Technology

Matthew Keeling, Director

Marie South, Financial Assistant

Law Department

Carolyn Settanni, Executive Vice President & General Counsel

Carly Berard, Associate General Counsel

Michael Schasane, Compliance Counsel

Nick Sladek, Administrative Assistant

Government Relations

Ben Jackson, Executive Vice President

Aimee Smith, Assistant Vice President

Matt Imburgia, Director

Member Relations

Julie Winterbauer, Senior Vice President

Tim Robinson, Director, Bank Relations

Illinois Bankers Business & Education Services, Inc.

Callan Stapleton, CAE, EVP & President of Business and Education Services

Adam Walsh, Vice President, Insurance Services

Robin Lane, Director, Associate Membership

Lyndee Fein, Director, Education & Conferences

Rachel Selvaggio, Director, Forums & Future Leaders Alliance

Denise Perez, Director, Education & Training

Debbie Jemison, CAE, Director, Financial Literacy

Amy Sale, Education Assistant

Illinois Bankers

Group Insurance Trust

Erich Bloxdorf, Plan Administrator

Mike Mahorney, Senior Trust Advisor

Hillary Meyers, Trust Manager

Randy Hultgren

Secretary Illinois Bankers Association

Banker

www.illinois.bank

strictly prohibited without written permission of the publisher.

Chair, Illinois Bankers Association

Tending to Our Garden

It is hard to believe that Spring is just around the corner, which reminds me of the opportunities for growth that this time of year offers. We shake off the dreariness of the winter and begin to see the budding of new opportunities as the warm spring weather arrives. It was Steven Covey who noted, “The only thing that endures over time is the 'Law of the Farm.' You must prepare the ground, plant the seed, cultivate, and water if you expect to reap the harvest.”

I believe that we can all apply that to our industry as well. If our harvest is an industry free from over-burdensome regulations, a business landscape that is a level playing field for all, and an industry free to serve its communities, then we must prepare the political and regulatory ground, plant the seed of our message, cultivate that message, and nourish that message with the banking regulators and elected officials.

Fortunately, there is a way to prepare our industry “field,” and that is to get involved with the IBA. Engage with the Illinois Bankers, to make our voices heard at the State Capital and in Washington D.C. The IBA offers many opportunities to engage with policy makers and regulators. Economic Investment Day and Washington D.C. visits are just two opportunites. Make your voices heard when called upon for critical issues that affect our industry. Deepen your contributions to the Illinois Bankers Political Action Committee. And finally, to access the robust tools and information on our advocacy efforts, I invite you to visit www.illinois.bank/advocacy. These are the events and mechanisms where we have the opportunity to plant, cultivate, and nourish our message.

This work and your involvement will allow us to reap the harvest of a stronger banking industry benefitting our communities, our employees, and our nation now, and in the future.

President & CEO, Illinois Bankers Association

Randy Hultgren Illinois Bankers Association

Worth Protecting

Bankers across Illinois continue to help millions of individuals, families, farmers, and small businesses to accomplish their goals and pursue their dreams. Our vital industry has an incredible impact daily but faces real and dangerous threats. It is our responsibility to do all we can to fight to protect banking. The Illinois Bankers Political Action Committee is directly engaged in that battle.

I speak from experience as a beneficiary of the support of the PAC when I served in state and federal government. The need to constantly focus on raising money is the most difficult part of government service. Our PAC gives us the opportunity to speak with, and educate, elected officials from both sides of the aisle at all levels

of government. Our support of elected officials allows them some time away from fundraising to be able to go deeper on issues critical to our industry.

We need your help to protect our industry and support candidates who listen to us and understand the important role bankers play in our state and nation. Our goal is to have a majority of bankers and banks give to the PAC. Join us when we when host Economic Investment Day or travel to Washington D.C. Your contribution and engagement will allow us to continue to tell your powerful story of service to our legislators. Any amount you or your bank can give helps this vital effort. It is simple to give at www.illinois.bank. Your impact on your community through banking is worth protecting!

Thomas Chamberlain

Iroquois Federal Savings & Loan Association

COMPLIANCE CORNER

The IBA Law Department

QUESTION

Are we required to receive an IDFPR emergency proclamation if we shorten bank hours due to bad weather? We heard that the Banking Emergencies Act was amended to allow facilities to close for up to 48 hours without an official proclamation.

ANSWER

No, we do not believe you need to receive an IDFPR emergency proclamation when closing a branch early due to bad weather. However, you may need to receive a proclamation if you are altering your hours for more than forty-eight consecutive hours.

The Banking Emergencies Act was amended in 2022 to allow banks to close for up to forty-eight consecutive hours without an IDFPR proclamation if “the officers of a bank are of the opinion that an emergency exists,

QUESTION

or is impending, which affects or may affect the bank’s offices.” If a bank already has opened for the day, it may close early “during the continuation of the emergency, even if the [IDFPR] does not issue a proclamation.” A bank may “remain closed until the time that the officers determine the emergency has ended, and for the further amount of time reasonably necessary to reopen,” but may not remain closed for more than forty-eight consecutive hours without prior approval from the IDFPR.

We have a charged-off vehicle loan that we extended to a couple who have now divorced. The wife provided us with a “draft” court order stating that she is no longer responsible for the loan. However, the husband has not refinanced the loan in his name only. Can we still pursue both spouses for repayment of the loan?

ANSWER

Yes, we believe that your bank may pursue both spouses for repayment of the loan. While the divorce decree may stipulate which spouse is responsible for the vehicle loan, the decree would not affect your bank’s rights, as your bank is not a party to the divorce decree.

Illinois courts have held that a court “is without jurisdiction to enter a decree, order, or judgment which

affects a right or interest of someone not before the court,” and is “not authorized in divorce proceedings to order disposition of property interests of third persons who are not parties to the proceeding.” Consequently, if your bank pursues the wife for repayment of the loan as authorized in your loan agreement, she would be unable to seek a defense against your bank under the divorce decree.

QUESTION

A business customer wrote a check and mailed it to their vendor, ABC Inc. It appears that a fraudster intercepted the check and deposited it into an account that it created for an imposter “ABC Inc.” at the same bank where the real ABC Inc. also has an account. There are no alterations on the check, and it was endorsed by “ABC Inc., deposit only.” Are we liable for a check that was stolen, but not altered? If we return the check, it will be past the midnight deadline, and our customer reported the matter within the timeframe provided in the account agreement.

ANSWER

We believe you will need to credit your customer for the check. However, we believe your bank is entitled to demand repayment of the check from the depository bank, since it appears to have breached its warranty to you that the check did not have a missing or unauthorized endorsement.

Under the Illinois Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), your customer must promptly notify your bank of any unauthorized payments that appear on an account statement. Since your customer’s notification was within the reporting window in your account agreement, we believe you will need to reimburse your customer for the check, since they alerted you to the fraud with “reasonable promptness.”

We agree that it is too late to return the check since the midnight deadline has passed. However, we believe your bank has a claim against the depository bank, since it breached one of the UCC presentment warranties — that the check had no missing or unauthorized endorsements. Here, the depository bank

accepted the check with the fraudster’s endorsement, which was unauthorized.

Under the UCC, notice of a claim for breach of warranty must be asserted within thirty days after the drawee learns of the breach and identity of the warrantor. After this thirty-day period, the depository bank cannot be held liable for any loss caused by the delay in giving notice of the claim. Consequently, we recommend sending notice of the breach of warranty to the depository bank as soon as possible. Additionally, we note that a cause of action for breach of warranty must be commenced within three years after it accrues.

Further, your bank should assess whether a suspicious activity report (SAR) should be filed in relation to the check. The FDIC regulations require you to file a SAR if your loss aggregates more than $5,000 and there is an identified suspect involved in the suspicious activity, or if the total loss aggregates to $25,000 or more, regardless of potential suspects.

About the IBA Law Department

Our IBA Law Department provides many resources to help our bank members meet their compliance challenges, including a toll-free Compliance Hotline (1-800-GO-TO-IBA) and a dedicated compliance website (www.GoToIBA.com). We also publish a free weekly e-newsletter highlighting the latest regulatory developments, select recent Q&As, and other useful information –let us know if you want to subscribe!

Note: This information does not constitute legal advice. You should consult bank counsel for legal advice, even if the facts are similar to those discussed above.

WASHINGTON UPDATE

The Real Losers in the Reg II Fight

By Rob Nichols, President and CEO, American Bankers Association

In 2010, the Durbin Amendment was dropped into Dodd-Frank in the dead of night, and without so much as a hearing, the government imposed restrictions and price controls on debit cards and connected checking accounts. Bankers warned that mega retailers would not pass on any savings at the checkout, and that bank customers would ultimately foot the bill in lost rewards. Both predictions have proven true, but for reasons clear only to the Federal Reserve, the government is poised to double down on this misguided policy with another 30% cut in debit interchange followed by an automatic biannual adjustment. This “one-way ratchet” will continue to hack away at debit programs every two years based on data and a formula of the Fed’s choosing, without public comment.

The Fed is proposing to slash the interchange rate cap from 21 cents to around 14.4 cents—and recent research estimates that this move could reduce interchange revenue for banks by $3 billion annually. That’s essentially the equivalent of the government reaching into banks’ pockets, taking money allocated to ensuring affordable, seamless, secure banking products and services, and handing it over to the very largest retailers.

Retailers will claim that they intend to pass those savings on to consumers. But as we’ve seen in the thirteen years since the original Durbin price caps took effect, those promises ring hollow.

That means that the real losers in this fight will be American consumers. Not only will consumers not gain the advantage of lower prices in stores,

but the Fed’s proposed changes to Regulation II will fundamentally affect the economics of what banks do—and that, in turn, affects the products and services they are able to offer their customers and communities.

Banks use interchange revenue to fund free or low-cost checking accounts and other services that consumers value. Prior to the enactment of the Durbin amendment, for example, many banks offered debit card rewards programs—but those programs were eliminated when the revenue streams funding them dried up due to government price controls.

These new proposed cuts to interchange revenue will have an even more dire consequence: they will undermine banks’ efforts to foster financial inclusion by providing access to the free and lowcost transaction accounts that help unbanked Americans get their foot in the door – a first but necessary step to true inclusion.

Our colleagues at the CFE Fund, which oversees the Bank On initiative that ABA has proudly championed, recently wrote to the Fed to emphasize what makes the national account standards work: They were designed to address the needs of low- and moderate-income consumers (bill pay, debit card access, ATM access). They were designed to knock down the barriers that keep so many consumers outside the banking system (minimum balance, credit checks, overdraft fees).

And, importantly, they were designed to be economically sustainable for banks offering the accounts.

Interchange fees play an important role in that sustainability equation. If banks do not have the revenue streams to support these and other low-cost accounts, they have two options: pass the costs on to consumers or stop offering and/or marketing the product altogether.

Bank On accounts are currently offered by a growing list of banks across the country. And to ensure we can continue that momentum, ABA has been working hard on behalf of its members to elevate these concerns to policymakers. But we can’t do it alone—we need your help. With the Fed recently extending the comment deadline to May 12, ABA is calling on all bankers to share how this change in regulation will affect their bank and their customers. You can send a letter easily through ABA’s grassroots platform, www. SecureAmericanOpportunity.com.

Banks put interchange to work funding low-cost banking services that help consumers find their way into the regulated banking system— enabling them to take advantage of deposit insurance protections, build credit, and do so many other things that can only happen with a banking relationship.

If the Fed’s Reg II proposal moves ahead, the very largest retailers will pocket that surplus to pad their bottom line—and consumers won’t see a penny of it.

That’s a tradeoff that leaves our country poorer.

E-mail Rob Nichols at nichols@aba.com.

IBA Legislative Update: Fighting for All Illinois Banks

By Ben Jackson, Executive Vice President, Government Relations

Our industry remains strong in Illinois, but certainly the business climate grows more challenging with each passing year. Illinois banks employ well over 100,000 Illinoisans, but as we serve our communities in different parts of our great state, sometimes it is hard to recognize that we have the people power to affect change

Uniting our grassroots power and sharing what you do to keep your communities strong is vital to ensuring that our industry will help move Illinois in a positive direction. We need bankers to tell their stories. Legislators and regulators do not understand how you work with your local nonprofits, help your local schools, and invest in important community work unless you tell them. Each connection you make as a banker helps the IBA – your advocates in Springfield, Washington, and Chicago – help keep our industry strong and ensure that financial services is a great career choice for future generations.

The best way to solidify these connections? Just like in banking, sometimes simply “showing up” helps plant the seeds for future partnerships. In other words, we need you for our upcoming advocacy events, in person:

u Economic Investment Day on April 16, 2024 in Springfield u Washington D.C. on September 9 - 10, 2024

Over the years, we have witnessed countless examples of bankers affecting change by simply showing up and speaking about their experiences.

This is particularly true when bankers discuss how a rule, legislative proposal, or regulatory guidance effects their bank and its employees and harms their bank’s ability to serve their neighborhoods, towns, and cities.

Admittedly, this all gets a bit more complicated when we start talking about the myriad issues we are facing. In Washington, the regulatory torrent is ferocious. Our industry has unfortunately resorted to taking legal action on various agency rules, with more lawsuits likely to follow. Yet this doesn’t preclude us from retaining open communications with regulators, and especially federal lawmakers. The IBA has visited D.C. twice so far this year, and our regulatory concerns are front-and-center in these conversations.

At the top of the list is the small business reporting rule and its negative effects on lending activity through our state. On this issue, we are urging Congress to create safe harbors for smaller banks who, on average, provide the highest volume of small business loans in our country.

We are likewise working to counter false narratives on fees that banks collect for legitimate services such as overdraft, NSF, and others that help banks provide low-cost services that are beneficial to both business and retail customers.

It’s not all defense in Washington. We are working with federal partners to develop support for the ACRE Act. This proactive legislation provides rural banks with tax credits when servicing rural and agricultural clients.

The legislation helps rural banks compete with Farm Credit, and more importantly it helps rural consumers enjoy more competitive choices for their financial needs.

Back in Springfield, we are in the midst of a new legislative session while continuing to also negotiate the Illinois Community Reinvestment Act rules. We have achieved great success so far in limiting the impact of the CRA rules on our member banks, but there is still work to be done.

Believe it or not, there also is legislation in Springfield targeting business fees. A so-called junk fee bill has been introduced that would permit civil lawsuits related to the charging of “junk fees” by banks and many other industries. We also are battling legislation that exposes mortgage lenders to more administrative and legal risk.

Here again, it isn’t all bad despite the challenges. We are guiding legislation through the Illinois General Assembly that would amend the Uniform Commercial Code to establish procedures for handling digital assets and electronic filings, and we are working to advance legislation that makes favorable changes to the Illinois Banking Act and the Savings Bank Act. Our banking bill works to create parity for thrift institutions under Illinois law.

As you can see, there are great challenges but also great opportunities for our industry to present a united front in Springfield and Washington. We hope you will join us in April and in September to ensure a robust banking climate in our state.

It is tradition that the incoming Chairperson of the Board of Direc tors of the IBA be “pinned” by the outgoing Chairperson. This pinning includes an Illinois Bankers Associa tion pin that is over 130 years old. Tom Chamberlain, the current Chair of the IBA, had the idea to create a replica of the historic IBA pin to be given to the past Chairs of the IBA in recognition of their leadership. Here is an array of photos and insightful quotes from some of the past IBA Chairs. The IBA deeply appreciates your past and current leadership of

Why did you choose to serve on the IBA Board?

an Illinois Bankers Association pin that is over 130 years old. om Chamberlain, the current Chair of the IBA, had the idea to create a replica of the historic IBA pin to be given to the past Chairs of the IBA in recognition of their leadership. ere is an array of photos and insightful quotes from some of the past IBA Chairs. he IBA deeply appreciates your past and current leadership of our industry!

Why did you choose to serve on the

To promote the interest of small rural banks in the state of Illinois. The Illinois Bankers Association, in my opinion, is the premier Banking Association in the State of Illinois. I felt that service on the Board of Directors of the IBA would not only help my community bank but would also provide a great personal learning e perience for me.

?

"The Illinois Bankers Association, in my opin ion, is the premier Banking Association in the State of Illinois. I felt that service on the Board of Directors of the IBA would not only help my community bank but would also provide a great personal learning experience for me."

Arthur Rollins Wilkinson State Bank of Bement, Chair 1996 – 1997

Rollins Wilkinson State Bank of Bement, Chair 1 – 1

I had the fortune of watching my dad, Art Wilkinson, serve and witnessed a camaraderie among he and his peers and his e citement for helping other bankers. I have the same passion - to make our industry better by strengthening our association. Serving on the Board gave me that opportunity.

"To promote the interest of small rural banks in the state of Illinois."

John L. Hutchinson

Gross State Bank of Bement, Chair 2021 - 2022

Iroquois Farmers State Bank, Chair 2001 – 2002

"I had the fortune of watching my dad, Art Wilkinson, serve and witnessed a camarade rie among he and his peers and his excite ment for helping other bankers. I have the same passion - to make our industry better by strengthening our association. Serving on the Board gave me that opportunity."

Michelle Gross State Bank of Bement, Chair 2021 - 2022

John L. utchinson

Iroquois Farmers State Bank, Chair 2001 – 2002

Arthur

Michelle

IBA Board

What is your most memorable experience?

"Traveling the State with Linda Koch visiting bankers all throughout the State."

Daniel Watts

Forest Park National Bank & Trust Co., Chair 2018 – 2019

"Bank visits with Randy Hultgren, the support from past chairs throughout my term, and my work with the IBA staff."

Betsy Johnson Solutions Bank, Chair 2022 – 2023

"When my Dad, Art Wilkinson, pinned me as Chair during the Annual Conference."

Michelle Gross

State Bank of Bement, Chair 2021 - 2022

What advice would you give future Board members?

"Stay involved and encourage your employees' involvement. It is critical that we do because our involvement in these issues today will make our daily lives easier down the road."

Kevin Olson

Grundy Bank, Chair 2019 – 2020

"Be willing to participate and engage in industry issues and its needs. Be able to listen to concerns and ideas of other bankers. Be involved in the legislative process at both the state and federal levels."

Kevin Rogers

Philo Exchange Bank, Chair 2014 - 2015

What is your biggest accomplishment when serving on the Board of Directors?

"Working with the Illinois League of Financial Institutions to keep the Insurance Trust available for all IBA member banks."

Daniel Watts, Forest Park Bank, Chair 2018 – 2019

"Providing guidance and help in transitioning to new leadership at the IBA. "

Betsy Johnson, Solutions Bank, Chair 2022 – 2023

"Being a part of the Executive Committee."

Kevin Rogers, Philo Exchange Bank, Chair 2014 - 2015

"Promoting small rural banks, so their voices could be heard."

John L. Hutchinson, Iroquois Farmers State Bank, Chair 2001 – 2002

"Working with our Board and the past chairs on an updated strategic plan. It was amazing to tap into our past chairs to gain insight from them!"

Michelle Gross, State Bank of Bement, Chair 2021 - 2022

"Chairing the search committee that hired Randy Hultgren as IBA's new CEO and getting to witness the transition from Linda Koch to Randy during COVID."

Kevin Olson, Grundy Bank, Chair 2019 – 2020

"Passing Insurance Legislation in 1997 allowing all state chartered financial institutions in the State of Illinois to sell all types of insurance products. Governor Edgar signed the legislation into law on July 1, 1997. The law took effect in October

an Illinois Bankers Association pin that is over 130 years old om Chamberlain, the current Chair of the IBA, had the idea to create a replica of the historic IBA pin to be given to the past Chairs of the IBA in recognition of their leadership ere is an array of photos and insightful quotes from some of the past IBA Chairs he IBA deeply appreciates your past and current leadership of our industry

did you

To promote the interest of small rural banks in the state of Illinois

Randy Hultgren, Brant Ahrens (CIBC Bank USA, Chair 2020 - 2021), and Tom Chamberlain

I had the fortune of watching

and

What advice would you give future Board members?

Traveling the State with Linda Koch visiting bankers all throughout the State

When my Dad pinned me as Chair during the Annual Conference

Daniel Watts Forest Park Bank, Chair 201 – 201

Betsy Johnson Solutions Bank, Chair 2022 – 2023

Michelle Gross State Bank of Bement, Chair 2021 - 2022

FHLBank Chicago: Supporting Your Efforts to Strengthen Your Community

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLBank Chicago) provides a variety of advance (loan) products, letters of credit, and the Mortgage Partnership Finance® Program to meet the funding and liquidity needs of their more than 400 Illinois member financial institutions and the communities they serve. Additionally, FHLBank Chicago has a substantial and growing housing and community development business.

FHLBank Chicago has introduced two Community First® grant programs to expand housing opportunities across Illinois:

• Housing Counseling Resource Program: By providing grants to 30 housing agencies throughout Illinois and Wisconsin, this program facilitates financial counseling and education to help homebuyers in underserved communities rebuild credit, manage debt, and eventually become homeowners. Over 18,000 families and individuals have received services such as pre-purchase homebuyer counseling, and over 1,100 were able to purchase a home after their counseling.

• Diverse Developer Initiative: This initiative aims to grow the diverse developer talent pipeline by investing in long-term solutions to improve equitable access to career development opportunities. In 2023, FHLBank Chicago doubled its annual support to $2 million in the second year of its Diverse Developer Initiative, funding more than 30 internships and fellowships for 10 beneficiary organizations.

These programs demonstrate how focused resources to underserved communities can help to deliver meaningful changes needed during the ongoing affordable housing crisis.

Celebrating Advancement in Housing: Community First Diverse Developer Initiative Grants Event

To celebrate the impact of these initiatives, 2023 recipients of the Diverse Developer grants in Illinois were honored at a ceremony in Chicago on February 5, 2024. This ceremony included IBA members – BMO Bank N.A. and First Eagle Bank – who were on hand to celebrate their partnerships with local Illinois development firm grantees.

• BMO Bank N.A. sponsored a grant for the Illinois Housing Council to support the Emerging Leaders Network. This grant will fund compensation for multiple diverse interns at developer host companies. Additionally, Habitat for Humanity received funding for fellowships focused on affordable housing development.

• First Eagle Bank sponsored three grants for their community partners: Community Investment Corporation, The Resurrection Project, and Lawndale Christian Development Corporation. These grants will support compensation for fellows working on affordable housing development.

FHLBank Employees Katie Naftzger, Liz Smith, Chris Rothwell, Sabrina Jackson, Cedric D. Thurman, and Casey Reidy attending the Diverse Developers Initiative (DDI) Award Ceremony

These banks are among other FHLBank Chicago members sponsoring grants for recipient organizations across Illinois and Wisconsin to diversify the real estate development industry. Diverse real estate developers bring unique perspectives and community knowledge to their projects— making them invaluable to the mission of building equitable, affordable housing.

At the ceremony, community leaders and representatives gathered to celebrate recipients and the work of impactful community partners. Katie Naftzger, Community Investment Officer, FHLBank Chicago, and Cedric Thurman, Chief Diversity Officer, FHLBank Chicago, presented checks to recipient organizations, sharing details of the program through collaboration with FHLBank Chicago’s Community Investment Advisory Council. Each recipient shared their mission, funding approach and plans with those in attendance.

Through their Community First grant programs, FHLBank Chicago demonstrates its continued commitment to housing leadership. These programs and partnerships are a few of the ways it works with member financial institutions to support the work they do every day within their local Illinois communities.

Cedric D. Thurman and Katie Naftzger present check to Illinois Housing Council representatives, Allison Clements and Mackenzie Drosd.

How Do You

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM FRAUD?

By Nellie Schlachter, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Evolv, Inc.

Credit Card Fraud

Although completely preventing credit card fraud is impossible, it's crucial to understand prevalent fraud techniques and how you can defend yourself. Credit card theft can occur through physical theft or digital hacking, often leading to significant hassles in resolving the issue. Falling prey to fraud can lead to unauthorized charges, potentially resulting in large bills and a sudden spike in your credit card balance, which may harm your credit score. Fortunately, you can take proactive steps to prevent fraud and quickly detect any unauthorized use of your card.

Credit card fraud happens when someone unauthorized accesses and utilizes your card information for purchases. Common methods used by fraudsters include:

• Misplacing or theft of credit cards

• Skimming devices, like those at gas station pumps

• Computer hacking

• Fraudulent calls offering fake prizes or wire transfers

• Phishing via deceptive emails

• Observing your card details during transactions

• Mail theft

While it's challenging to completely block such fraudulent attempts, you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim or minimize the impact of fraud on your accounts by following these steps:

Most credit cards are equipped with advanced security features, such as free credit monitoring Be sure and enroll in this service to help keep tabs on your account.

Regularly review your credit card statements and online accounts for unfamiliar transactions. If something seems amiss, promptly contact your card issuer to contest the charge. Consider enrolling in a credit monitoring service for early warnings of potential fraud, helping you safeguard your information.

While manual account monitoring and credit monitoring are effective, you can enhance your protection by enrolling in transaction alerts with your card issuer. These can be configured for various transactions, including those over a certain amount, international purchases, balance transfer requests, and more.

Ensure your data is secure during any transaction, whether online, instore, or over the phone. For online purchases, verify that the website URL begins with "https" and avoid using public wifi. In physical stores, keep your card out of others' view. Only provide your credit card number over the phone if you initiated the call.

What Actions Should I Take if I Suspect a Scam?

If you suspect that your credit card has been compromised, it's important to act quickly. Start by freezing your account to prevent further unauthorized use. If you notice any unauthorized charges, contact your card issuer immediately. They can issue a refund for those charges, cancel your current card, and issue a new one with a different number.

Additionally, thoroughly review your monthly statements for all your credit card accounts. This is crucial because if certain information has been stolen, multiple accounts could potentially be at risk.

What Information Do Scammers Need to Use My Credit Card?

To fraudulently use your credit card, scammers typically need your name, credit card number, and the card's expiration date. In many cases, they don't even require the CVV (the three-digit code on the back of most cards or the four digit code on the front of American Express cards) to complete a transaction.

How to Deter from Credit Card Fraud, from a Merchant Standpoint

• Utilize EMV (Chip) cards

• Collect address verification and/or customer signatures

• Batch daily

• Maintain PCI Compliance

• Frequently change your passwords

• Utilize multi-authentication (CAPTCHA)

• Enable passwords for functions such as VOID and Refund

What About Check Fraud?

According to a recent notification from the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), a division of the Treasury Department, there has been a nationwide spike in check fraud associated with mail theft. Despite the declining use of paper checks over the years, FinCEN reports that criminals are more frequently targeting mailboxes to perpetrate check fraud.

The FinCEN alert highlights a prevalent method called "check washing," where criminals steal signed checks from mailboxes. They then employ everyday substances, such as nail polish remover, to erase the specified amount and the name of the intended recipient

on the check. Subsequently, they alter the checks, assigning a new payee and increasing the amount—often inflating it by hundreds or thousands of dollars—before proceeding to cash the check.

Check washing has transformed from a minor operation, where small-scale criminals would steal a few checks from residential mailboxes to a more organized endeavor. This newer form of the crime involves stealing mail in large quantities from postal collection boxes. Criminals are engaging in the online sale of duplicates of washed checks or stolen or counterfeit master keys, referred to as arrow keys, which provide access to Postal Service collection boxes. According to FinCEN's report, these crimes have varied in execution; in some instances, postal carriers have been robbed at gunpoint for their keys, while in other cases, postal employees have been implicated in the theft of checks at sorting and distribution centers. These criminals then enlist others to raid collection boxes, serve as check cashers (often utilizing false identification), or open accounts that are used for depositing the altered checks.

What's driving the increase in check fraud? It's possible that criminals, who previously intercepted stimulus checks and other financial assistance during the pandemic, have shifted their focus to new income streams as those sources of funds have ceased. FinCEN highlights that mail theft endangers not just personal checks but also business checks, tax refunds, and government benefits. However, cashing these types of checks usually involves more complex methods than mere check washing. Criminals might need to steal the recipient's identity or, for business checks, establish a fraudulent business with a name resembling the legitimate one and then open a bank account under this fabricated business name.

Consumers are not responsible for bearing the losses from fraudulent or counterfeit checks. Typically, depending on the state, customers have 30 to 60 days from the date of their most recent bank statement to report any unauthorized checks. However, banks must conduct investigations into reported fraud and determine which financial institution bears the liability for the loss. As a result, the time it takes to get reimbursed can vary.

In summary, the best way to prevent fraud is to always be alert. Never disclose your personal, identifiable information or bank account information over the phone unless you initiated the phone call and are positive you know whom you are speaking to. Be extremely cognizant of email scams and fraudsters. It’s always best to err on the side of caution.

Since 1997, Evolv, Inc. has offered a complete menu of payment processing and digital marketing solutions to businesses of every size and industry type.

Illinois bank deal count slipped in 2023 amid overall M&A slump

by Rica Dela Cruz and Zuhaib Gull, Market Intelligence

Illinois was the most active state for US bank M&A in 2023, but recorded fewer deals year over year as overall activity hit a record low.

During the year, 14 Illinois-based institutions were targeted in M&A deals, compared with 18 in 2022, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence data. The 2023 deals included the sale of $2.58 billion in assets and $2.15 billion in deposits.

Banks in the Midwest region were the targets in nearly half of the 100 US bank deals announced in 2023. There will likely be more deals across the country in 2024 with deal talks heating up, investment bankers say.

Bank M&A activity in Illinois since 2019

Illinois Deals

The Illinois-based targets in the 2023 bank deals are all community banks, with Merchants and Manufacturers Bank Corp. as the largest at $473.1 million in assets and $398.9 million in deposits. The company will be acquired by in-state peer First Busey Corp. in a deal valued at about $41.6 million, the largest among the 2023 Illinois deals with disclosed values.

The partnership will enhance Busey's growing suburban Chicago market presence by expanding the company's deposit market share in DuPage and Will Counties, while bolstering its commercial banking relationships and wealth management capabilities, First Busey and Merchants and Manufacturers said in a news release.

The addition of branches and deposits in the Chicago area complements First Busey's acquisition of Glenview, Ill.based CumminsAmerican Corp. in 2021, Stephens analyst Terry McEvoy said.

The second-largest Illinois-based target is McLaughlin Holding Co., with $340.5 million in assets. The company was sold to Muscatine, Iowa-based Central Bancshares Inc.

Credit unions are the buyers in three Illinois deals. Michigan State University FCU plans to acquire Algonquin State Bank and purchase substantially all assets and assume substantially all liabilities of McHenry Savings Bank, while Land of Lincoln CU acquired Nokomis Savings Bank.

This article was published by S&P Global Market Intelligence and not by S&P Global Ratings, which is a separately managed division of S&P Global.

Announced Illinois banks deals in 2023

Sorted by announcement date

https://pages.marketintelligence.spglobal.com/Illinois-Banker-Assocation-MA-2024.html

aba.com/MarketingLifecycle

Washington DC Fly In

January 29 – 31, 2024

Washington DC

In late January, our President and CEO Randy Hultgren was joined by Executive Vice President – Government Relations

Ben Jackson; Dave Feldhaus, Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago; and several Board members in Washington DC to meet with elected officials and regulators.

This provided a wonderful opportunity to take a select group of members to Washington to advocate for Illinois banks!

Randy Hultgren, Natalia Wator, Frank Pettaway, Ben Jackson, and Dave Feldhaus on the Speakers Balcony

Congressman Mike Bost, Randy Hultgren meet to discuss pressing banking issues

Randy Hultgren, Dave Feldhaus, Frank Pettaway, Natalia Wator, Congressman Mike Quigley, Tom Chamberlain, Ben Jackson outside of Congressman Quigley’s office

Dave Felhaus, Frank Pettaway, Natalia Wator, Congressman Sean Casten, Tom Chamberlain, Randy Hultgren, and Ben Jackson after a lively banking discussion with Congressman Casten

Ben Jackson, Randy Hultgren, Dave Feldhaus, Senator Tammy Duckworth, Frank Pettaway, and Natalia Wator hosted by Senator Duckworth in her Senate office

The ONE Conference EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

March 7–8, 2024

Embassy Suites, East Peoria, IL

The One Conference gave over 300+ bankers and industry partners an opportunity to “Level Up” in their banking careers. This year’s event brought in outstanding keynote speakers and mission critical tracks that focused on marketing, human resources, lending, retail, leadership, technology and operations, and risk and financial management.

Thursday night gave attendees an opportunity to attend the annual Pac Brews event at Donnelly’s Irish Pub and the evening ended with Karaoke and fun games at the Embassy Suites. Feedback from bankers, sponsors, and exhibitors was unanimous: this was one of the best conferences and all look forward to attending next year!

Be sure to mark your calendars for March 13 – 14, 2025 in Bloomington/Normal at the Marriott Hotel and Convention Center!

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

ABA Annual Summit

March 18 – 20, 2024

Washington DC

Bankers from Illinois descended upon Washington D.C. for the ABA’s Annual Summit. The Summit gave bankers the opportunity to hear from elected officials, regulators, and other power players in the Washington DC scene. Led by Randy Hultgren, President and CEO and Ben Jackson,

Executive Vice President of Government Relations, we impressed upon lawmakers and regulators the need to defeat harmful banking legislation and to promote the growth of our industry and the communities we serve.

Dave Feldhaus, Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago; Jason Powell, Lisle Savings Bank; Gina Meier, Bank of Belleville; Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski; Anne Cleven, Community Savings Bank; Lara Kalka, FNBC Bank & Trust; Randy Hultgren, IBA; Rachel Selvaggio, IBA; Ben Jackson, IBA

Randy Hultgren, IBA; Lara Kalka, FNBC Bank & Trust; Gina Meier, Bank of Belleville; Jason Powell, Lisle Savings Bank; Congressman Bill Foster; Rachel Selvaggio, IBA; Anne Cleven, Community Savings Bank; Jim Roolf, Old National Bank; Dave Feldhaus, Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago

The Return on Investment:

Discover

Woodward on Washington: An Economic, Policy and Political Outlook

Joan Woodward

Executive Vice President of Public Policy, Travelers

Strategic Benchmarks: Your Peers’ Plans and Priorities for 2024 and 2025

Lee Wetherington

Senior Director, Corporate Strategy, Jack Henry

Travis Hill

Vice Chairman, FDIC Board of Directors, FDIC Regulator Perspective

Robert M. Fleetwood Partner, Group Co-Chair, Barack

May

A T E R S

BREAKOUT SESSIONS & SPEAKERS

Credit Trends –Managing Credit Risk

Tom Chester Director, FORVIS

Get to Know the Next Generation of Digital Consumers

Kyle Elliott Vice President, VISA Inc.

Current Trends in Bank M&A and Financial Innovation Secrets of High Performing Banks

Jim Morrissey Shareholder, Vedder Price P C

Balance Sheet Strategies for a Changing Rate Environment

Ryan W. Hayhurst President, The Baker Group

The Top 6 Controls to Reduce Your Risk of a Cyber Incident

Maximizing Margin Expansion in Today’s World

Tim Keith Chief Strategist Account Boost, Strategic Resource Management

Outlook for Banks as They Battle Revenue, Liquidity Pressures

Shawn O’Brien President, QwickRate Dir tions Research, S&P Global

MEMBER VISITS

IBA President and CEO Randy Hultgren and Chair Tom Chamberlain have been blazing through the State of Illinois visiting our members. From Forreston to Salem, Tom and Randy have been active in meeting with our members

to discuss their needs and to connect with the banking professionals serving their communities. Look for Randy and Tom in your community soon!

Tom Chamberlain, Dan Watts (Forest Park National Bank & Trust Co.) and Randy Hultgren

Randy Hultgren, Tony Nestler (Hickory Point Bank) and Tom Chamberlain

Randy Hultgren, Kevin Rogers (Philo Exchange Bank) and Tom Chamberlain

Tom Chamberlain, Ashley Speed, Kevin Olson (Grundy Bank)

Tom Chamberlain, Amy Randolph, Randy Hultgren and Busey Bank Team

Tom Chamberlain and the Solutions Bank Team

Tripp McRaffle Winner Ryan Martz (Solutions Bank) and Tom Chamberlain

TJ Burge (Community Partners Savings Bank) and Randy Hultgren

Betsy Johnson (Solutions Bank) and Tom Chamberlain

Randy Hultgren, Brant Ahrens (CIBC Bank USA) and Tom Chamberlain

First Mid Bank & Trust (First Mid)

First Mid Bank & Trust (First Mid) is pleased to announce the appointment of two seasoned executives to its leadership team.

Stas Wolak will assume the role of Chief Retail Banking Officer, previously held by Mandy Lewis who now holds the position of Chief Operations Officer.

Wolak brings a wealth of customerfocused banking industry experience to First Mid, having previously held key leadership roles at PNC Bank for the past 20 years. He most recently served as SVP, Market Sales and Service Manager. With a proven track record in leading crossfunctional teams, driving growth, implementing strategic initiatives, and establishing consistent and exceptional customer experiences, Wolak is poised to play a pivotal role in First Mid's continued success.

He is a proud Veteran, having served as Corporal for the United States Marine Corps. Wolak received his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. He is active in his community, serving as a board member for Laumeier Sculpture Park, past campaign chair for United Way, and past development chair for the school board.

"I am thrilled to join First Mid at such an exciting time in its journey. The organization's commitment

to innovation and client success aligns perfectly with my professional values, and I look forward to contributing to its continued growth," says Wolak.

In addition to Wolak’s appointment, Jeremy Frieburg has been named as the new Chief Information Officer (CIO). Frieburg will lead the development and execution of First Mid’s technology strategies. He assumes the role previously held by David Hiden, who is departing from the company after a successful five-year tenure to relocate closer to family. Hiden will continue to oversee projects and assist with the transition through mid-year 2024.

Frieburg brings over 20 years of experience as a financial technology and systems leader, most recently serving as SVP, Chief Information Officer at INB, N.A. With a history of success in leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, foster innovation, and ensure the security of digital systems, he will play a key role in aligning technology initiatives with First Mid's broader business objectives, ultimately enhancing the overall customer experience.

Frieburg earned both his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science and his Master of Business Administration from the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign.

"I am eager to join First Mid and contribute my expertise to its continued success. The financial industry is undergoing rapid

transformation, and I am excited to collaborate with the talented team here to leverage technology as a catalyst for growth and innovation," says Frieburg.

The dual appointments underscore First Mid’s commitment to assembling a leadership team comprised of industry leaders with diverse backgrounds and expertise. Joe Dively, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at First Mid, expressed confidence in the new hires and emphasized their importance in advancing the company's strategic objectives.

"These appointments represent a significant milestone for First Mid. Both Stas and Jeremy bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be invaluable as we continue to expand our presence and deliver exceptional value to our clients," says Dively. First Mid looks forward to leveraging the collective strengths of its enhanced leadership team to navigate the evolving landscape of the financial industry and drive sustainable growth.

Community Bank of Elmhurst

Community Bank of Elmhurst has announced the hiring of Scott LaMorte as Vice President of Business Development and Commercial Lending effective March 1, 2024. LaMorte, an Elmhurst resident, brings more than 25 years of experience in relationship management work.

His background includes experience in community banking, as well as several years of development work at Elmhurst institutions such as Elmhurst University and IC Catholic Prep high school. He is also an Elmhurst University graduate.

“Scott brings both knowledge of community banking and community involvement in Elmhurst and the surrounding suburbs,” said Richard Reichert, President and CEO. “He will be a great asset to our team.”

In addition to his work experience, LaMorte has been involved with numerous community organizations in Elmhurst. He currently serves as a Director at the Elmhurst-Yorkfield Food Pantry and also as a Director for the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

“I have been blessed to have been given opportunities to give back to Elmhurst,” LaMorte said. “I look forward to serving the community in my role with Community Bank of Elmhurst.”

Itasca Bank & Trust Co.

Jamie Shimer, JD, was recently appointed Vice President and Senior Trust Officer at Itasca Bank & Trust Co. in Itasca, IL. She brings a vast range of experience, first in private practice, where she was an experienced litigator and elder law advocate, and most recently as a Trust Officer in the Trust Department of a suburban community bank. She is extremely

knowledgeable on legal issues facing the most vulnerable members of our community which includes minor children, the elderly, and the disabled. Shimer holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, Illinois and a Juris Doctorate from the Southern Illinois University School of Law, Carbondale, Illinois.

She is currently a board member of both the Boys & Girls Club of Joliet. She is also an active participant in Aging Care Solutions, a professional group dedicated to offering consumers educational programs regarding all aspects of aging. In the past, she has volunteered her time to serve as an officer with the Will County Estate Planning Council and she supports the work of Guardian Angel Services/Adult Protective Service Program. Finally, she spent many years as a court-appointed advocate for minor children and disabled adults through the Will County court system.

“Jamie brings a deep industry knowledge of trusts and the law to her new role,” said James R. Mensching, President of Itasca Bank & Trust Co. “We are confident her proven leadership capabilities and passion for elder law will be instrumental in the continued success of the Trust Department.”

Jamie resides with her husband and two children in Plainfield.

CeCe Rocha was recently appointed Treasury Management Officer at Itasca Bank & Trust Co. She has worked

ON THE MOVE

in the financial and investments industry for the past two decades and is experienced in working with all types of businesses.

“CeCe is passionate about providing the necessary service and guidance that businesses need for optimal success,” said James R. Mensching, President of Itasca Bank & Trust Co. “We are confident her proven leadership capabilities will be instrumental in the continued success of our small business customers." Rocha is a graduate of Loyola University in Chicago, Illinois and resides in the Chicago area.

James R. Mensching is pleased to announce the recent appointment of John J. Hunt to the Itasca Bank & Trust Co. Board of Directors.

Hunt is the Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer at Itasca Bank & Trust Co. and has been with the Bank as part of its Senior Management Team since 2011. His extensive management experience with community banks throughout the Chicagoland area spans over three decades. John’s clients range from contractors and real estate investors to service-related businesses and professionals.

He graduated from Marquette University with a B.S. in Finance and the Wisconsin Graduate School of Banking. He resides in Libertyville, IL with his family.

NEW ASSOCIATE MEMBERS WELCOME

BAFS-Business Alliance Financial Services

1500 N 19th St Ste 600 Monroe, LA 71201-4942

Website: https://bafs.com

Contact: Laura Emory

laura.emory@bafs.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/ BusinessAllianceFinancialServicesBAFS

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BAFS__

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/ businessalliancefinancialservices

BAFS (Business Alliance Financial Services) is a privatelyowned company that provides financial institutions with the best of commercial lending software and services, an industry-first combination. Whether you need to utilize our proprietary lending software, our full-service, on-call commercial lending expertise, or something in between, BAFS will meet you where you are to grow your business and make your institution a leader in the commercial lending space. We provide packages, suite services, and stand-alone services so that we can be of service at whatever scale you need. Providing top-quality service to our clients and their communities is at the core of everything we do, and that’s why our team at BAFS is our greatest asset.

CorServ, Inc.

6120 Powers Ferry Rd Ste 120 Atlanta, GA 30339-2948

Website: https://corservsolutions.com

Contact: David Luther jhurst@corservsolutions.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/corserv.solutions

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/corservsolutions-inc.

CorServ provides payment card issuing programs for credit, virtual, debit and prepaid cards enabling Banks and Fintechs to deliver and embed payment card capabilities for their commercial, business, and consumer customers. CorServ's secure hosted programs combine our credit, compliance, servicing, and marketing expertise with our modern online solution and open APIs. Our Bank and Fintech clients benefit from Interchange, loan interest, and fees from the payment cards. For more information, please visit http://www. corservsolutions.com/.

Midwestern Securities Trading Company

300 E Washington St Ste 3 East Peoria, IL 61611-2627

Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/

Contact: Anne Schutt

aschutt@midwesternsecurities.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/midwesternsecurities

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ midwesternsecurities

Grow & protect with Midwestern Securities. Whether you have a thriving investment services division and are looking for a true partner to help you take it to the next level of success or you are just starting on your journey to building new streams of non-interest income, we have a solution for you. We work with forward-thinking, communityminded banks who desire a broker/dealer who can provide executive leadership and superior sales coaching to their financial advisors. Our size and exclusivity allow us to provide personalized, focused attention and support to our partners. We are invested in their success and dedicated to helping them grow if they are willing to match our effort and expectations. We are on a mission to make sure our partners grow their investment services division and diversify their revenue in a compliant fashion so they can still be here in a generation.

Security Alarm

PO Box 665

Salem, IL 62881-0665

Website: https://securityalarm.com

Contact: Joy Conner joy@securityalarm.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/SACSouthernIllinois

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecurityAlarmIL

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/security-alarm

Security Alarm is a family owned and operated regional security company that services primarily Central and Southern Illinois. We serve the homes and businesses in our state by offering commercial fire alarm systems, access control, intrusion systems, and video surveillance. We pride ourselves in offering top of the line service, installation and customer care. The Banking industry is a vertical market that we have significantly grown in within the last couple of years. We have focused security products that are greatly improving the security of banks across our region.

Quantalytix

1500 1st Ave N Ste R108 Birmingham, AL 35203-1865

Website: https://quantalytix.com

Contact: Will Bryant willbryant@quantalytix.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/quantalytix

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/quantalytix

Quantalytix is an advanced enterprise balance sheet management platform designed to effortlessly merge all your data sources, streamline analytical and reporting tasks, and monitor essential key performance indicators specific to your banking operations. With a focus on utilizing your data effectively, we enable you to uncover actionable insights and free you to concentrate on driving your business objectives forward.

NEW BANK MEMBER

IBA Welcomes Fidelity Bank!

The Illinois Bankers is pleased to welcome Fidelity Bank as its newest member!

For nearly a century, Fidelity Bank has been building relationships and serving its customers. From the start in Cambridge, Iowa, the focus of Fidelity Bank was on helping local people and their businesses succeed. As they grew to include a location in Huxley, Iowa and West Des Moines, Iowa, their attention continued to be on supporting our customers and communities.

In early 2023, Fidelity Bank continued growing with the strategic merger with Savanna-Thomson State Bank based in Illinois. This merger includes branch locations in Savanna, Thomson, and Mt. Carroll, Illinois.

Fidelity Bank remains committed to providing their customers with the services they need to be successful. Even as our communities have grown and changed, they recognize their customers' financial goals are changing, too. People turn to Fidelity Bank when they need banking support to reach a significant milestone in their life—like buying a home, saving, or starting a business venture.

Fidelity Bank believes local decision-making is what leads to greater success for their clients and their communities. That’s why their team of experts work alongside their customers to provide real answers in real time. Customers don’t want to be bounced around from person-to-person in order to get the information they need. Fidelity Bank staff hate getting the runaround, too. Banking should be easy. Their mission is to present information that is clear, fast and easy to understand. You can count on Fidelity Bank to care―it’s why they keep their focus on the future, enhancing their services and offerings to support their customers and their communities.

Busey Bank Bridge Scholarship Now Available

Busey knows the importance of a lasting promise. They are pleased to offer financial support toward continuing education endeavors to applicants of all ages and educational backgrounds through the Busey Bank Bridge Scholarship.

“We are proud to support the educational aspirations of students across our footprint through the Busey Bank Bridge Scholarship,” said Sandy DeMond, Senior Vice President –Director of Community Banking. “We recognize the financial challenges that come with continuing education and hope to ease that burden for students and their families. By investing in their education, we’re not only helping the students themselves, but also our communities as a whole.”

Through the Busey Bank Bridge Scholarship Fund, $25,000 in scholarships will be awarded annually. Available across the Busey footprint, funds will be disbursed through 10 scholarships of $2,500 each.

Applicants must reside in one of the following counties within the applicable states below:

• Illinois: Champaign, McLean, Peoria, Tazewell, Macon, Will, Grundy, Cook, DuPage, Madison, St. Clair

• Missouri: St. Louis, St. Louis City, St. Charles

• Florida: Lee, Sarasota

• Indiana: Hamilton, Marion

The scholarship funds can be used for tuition, fees, books or supplies for continuing education.

Online applications are available at busey.com/ scholarship. The application deadline is June 3, 2024, and selected recipients will be notified by July 8, 2024.

Applicants will be required to meet specific eligibility requirements. Complete details on the Busey Bank Bridge Scholarship’s eligibility criteria and application process can be found at busey.com/scholarship

First Mid Bancshares,

Inc. Announces Chairman's Award Recipeints

First Mid Bancshares, Inc., the holding company of First Mid Bank & Trust, presented the 2023 Chairman’s Award for Excellence to eight employees within the company. The Chairman’s Award is First Mid’s most prestigious award. Individuals are nominated by their peers and selected by the company’s executive committee. In the past year, these employees have consistently demonstrated First Mid’s core values in their everyday work while making exceptional contributions to the company. Their commitment to their customers and colleagues has rightfully earned each of them the company’s highest honor.

Paige Barker is a Market Manager, located at the Altamont banking center. She is a cornerstone of the Deposit team, always ready to step up to the plate whenever there is a challenge. Barker’s willingness to review projects, take on additional tasks, and be involved in various initiatives has set her apart as a true asset to First Mid. Her understanding of the frontline and the potential impacts on both customers and colleagues has been nothing short of exceptional. Barker has been a mentor to others within the organization and is committed to not only leading but also actively participating in the success of others. She genuinely embodies the qualities of a true leader with her dedication, mentorship, and hands-on approach.

Erin Clifton is an Accountant III, located at Mattoon Corporate. She consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to her role, showcasing an exceptional

work ethic that transcends expectations. Over the past year, Clifton has taken on numerous additional responsibilities, showing remarkable growth and proactively embracing new tasks. Even with these added responsibilities, she remains a reliable source of support for her colleagues, offering guidance and assistance with unwavering focus. In an era where collaboration is key, Clifton has not only enhanced the collective skillset but has also fostered a collaborative and dynamic work environment. Her willingness to impart expertise and guide fellow team members underscores her dedication to the team’s success and development.

Tyla Larson is a Benefits Manager, located at the Mattoon Main banking center. An integral part of First Mid for many years, her level of dedication and commitment is a testament to her passion for the organization and its success. With responsibilities and oversight that have a direct impact on employees, Larson continually goes above and beyond, working tirelessly

to complete tasks and projects. Her ability to inspire and support her teammates is remarkable and adds to the overall cohesion of her team. Beyond her professional contributions, Larson is an active and proud member of her community, engaging in activities such as Special Olympics Family Festival, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Breast Cancer Awareness to name a few. She exemplifies the core values of social responsibility and community engagement that are part of the culture at First Mid.

Skylar Logsdon is an Information Systems Support Services Supervisor, located at Mattoon W. Charleston. He exemplifies First Mid’s core values, consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic and always going above and beyond his defined job responsibilities. Logsdon’s willingness to share knowledge and foster collaboration contributes positively to the organization’s culture. His commitment to doing what is right is evident in the results his team consistently delivers. Logsdon

holds his team accountable without wavering, ensuring they provide the highest level of service. His exemplary contributions, outstanding work ethic, teamwork, leadership, and continuous growth make him a worthy recipient.

Brittany McLaughlin is a Commercial Loan Processing Manager II, located at the Champaign W. Church banking center. Throughout her career at First Mid, she has displayed an unwavering commitment to integrity. Navigating challenges with grace and determination, McLaughlin quickly became a beacon of motivation for her colleagues and her ability to prioritize work and customer needs with professionalism set a standard for excellence within her role. Putting her team’s goals before her own, McLaughlin embraces the values of teamwork and commitment. Through roundtable trainings, group meetings, and one-on-one coaching sessions, she works tirelessly to develop her team’s knowledge, fostering an environment of collaboration and growth. In times of change and challenge, McLaughlin’s decisionmaking skills truly set her apart.

Megan Rogers is a Credit Portfolio Team Lead, located at Mattoon W. Broadway. Her impact over the past year has been nothing short of remarkable. Rogers spearheaded a project that involved overhauling decades-old processes. While many might shy away from such a challenge, her inquisitive nature and commitment to improvement shone through. Rogers’ meticulous attention to detail and dedication to quality work have made her a go-to resource for many at First Mid. Beyond her technical accomplishments, Rogers plays a pivotal role in fostering a positive team environment. Her inclusive leadership style, patience in training, and willingness to take

on additional projects has not gone unnoticed. Rogers goes above and beyond to ensure that team members feel included, supported, and equipped to excel in their roles.

Laura Shearrer is a Conversion & Special Projects Implementation Officer, located at the St. Peters banking center. Her commitment to excellence, reflected in her detailoriented approach, inspires the entire organization and showcases an innate ability to navigate through various tasks with precision. What truly sets Shearrer apart is her unwavering dedication to accuracy. Every piece of her work undergoes a meticulous review and verification process, ensuring what she supplies is nothing short of perfection. Shearrer is always willing to do whatever is needed to support other teams and her willingness to assist with a smile is truly remarkable. She provides invaluable support across the organization through self-directed initiatives, displaying exceptional leadership abilities.

Mary Tague is an Employee Benefits Compliance & Claims Manager for First Mid Insurance Group, located at Mattoon W. Charleston. She embodies the unique blend of expertise, dedication, and genuine care that makes her a true standout among her peers. At the heart of Tague’s contributions is a relentless focus on keeping the team and clients informed regarding benefits compliance rules and responsibilities. Her dedication is a level of commitment that goes above and beyond and makes her special. Always thinking of others, Tague shares information she knows will benefit her colleagues and clients alike. Her generosity knows no bounds and her willingness to help in any way possible is truly commendable.

CBI Bank & Trust Completes Acquisition of Joy, IL Bank Branch

CBI Bank & Trust of Muscatine, Iowa, announced that it completed the acquisition of Farmers-Merchants Bank of Illinois’ (“FarmersMerchants Bank”) Joy, Illinois branch office located at 101 West Main Street on Friday, January 26, 2024. A technology upgrade occurred recently, and all client accounts are now part of CBI Bank & Trust.

“We’re pleased to announce the successful completion of our plan that was put in motion last year and would like to extend a warm welcome to the Joy area clients,” said Greg Kistler, CEO of CBI Bank & Trust. “The fact everything went so smoothly is a testament to months of planning, coordination, and hard work by many talented individuals throughout our organization. I’m extremely proud of their efforts.”

The branch purchase agreement of the Joy office of Farmers-Merchants Bank included all deposit accounts held at the office and consists of approximately $66 million in deposits and $28 million in loans.

“Starting today, Joy clients can enjoy the convenience of banking at 18 locations, plus access to a wider array of services such as wealth management, investments, and treasury and cash management services,” said Kistler.

Bryan Hofmann will continue to lead the Joy office and has been named Western Illinois Market President.

CBI Bank & Trust, based in Muscatine, Iowa, and F&M Bank, a Division of CBI Bank & Trust, based in Galesburg, Illinois, serve approximately 50,000 consumers and businesses through 24 branches, with locations in Bettendorf, Buffalo, Coralville, Davenport, Kalona, Muscatine, Walcott, Washington, and Wilton in Iowa, and Brimfield, Buffalo Prairie, Galesburg, Joy, Moline, Monmouth, Peoria in Illinois as well as the state line region (Roscoe/Beloit) of Illinois and Wisconsin. In addition, the bank’s Trust and Investment divisions manage combined client assets of over $1.4 billion.

The former SENB Bank was recently merged into CBI Bank & Trust. It serves the Quad Cities market in both Iowa and Illinois, as well as the state line (Roscoe/Beloit) region of Illinois and Wisconsin, with six locations. CBI Bank & Trust clients can bank at these offices after the technology upgrade in April 2024.

Bank of Pontiac Completes Branch Purchase

Joy, Illinois based Farmers-Merchants Bank of Illinois completed its sale of three Illinois branches to in-state peer Bank of Pontiac Jan. 26.

The previously announced sale agreements received regulatory approval this January, FarmersMerchants Bank of Illinois' holding company, Merchants Bancorp, disclosed in its fourth-quarter 2023 financial report.

The transaction added banking locations in Paxton, Melvin and Piper City to Bank of Pontiac's footprint, which currently has 11 locations throughout the counties of Livingston, McLean, Tazewell and Grundy.

The three acquired branches were to be renamed Bank of Pontiac at the time of the merger, according to Bank of Pontiac's website.

According to the website, account holders at those branches were converted to the Bank of Pontiac's operating system in January.

Customers in these branches will continue to be greeted and assisted by Farmers-Merchants Bank of Illinois staff and will be open for business Jan. 29, Bank of Pontiac said.

The transaction increased Bank of Pontiac's total assets to about $1.16 billion, according to a press release.

nine offices and more than $150 million in combined gross annual revenues. Based on those numbers, UB Greensfelder would have ranked approximately 181 on the 2023 Am Law 200 and 163 on the NLJ 500. “As two highly compatible firms with similar cultures and a shared vision for growth, we have already seen incredible cross-firm collaboration,” Kadish said. “We have hit the ground running with our new, expanded platform, built on a foundation of exceptional client service, and supported by each legacy firm’s complementary practice and geographic footprints.”

Ulmer & Berne LLP and Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. announced that they have completed their merger creating a new Am Law 200 law firm, UB Greensfelder LLP. The new firm is led by Greensfelder president and CEO, Kevin T. McLaughlin, and Ulmer managing partner, Scott P. Kadish, who now serve as co-managing partners. UB Greensfelder’s practice, industry group, and office leadership will be evenly divided between attorneys from each legacy firm with equal representation on the UB Greensfelder governing board and compensation committees. Ulmer and Greensfelder, with complementary practice and geographic strengths, announced on December 5, 2023, that their respective partners and shareholders had voted unanimously to approve the merger.

A true merger of equals, the blending of two strong, growth-focused, complementary firms results in a new Am Law 200 law firm with approximately 275 attorneys in

“From the beginning, we have talked about our deal being somewhat unique among modern law firm mergers in that both firms were already financially strong, giving us the luxury of combining, not out of necessity, but because we recognized the deal as an opportunity to strengthen both firms,” McLaughlin added. “We have already generated several business opportunities that would not have been possible without this merger.”

UB Greensfelder builds strength-onstrength in corporate transactions, business litigation, financial services, real estate, and health care, as well as in several other practice areas where both legacy firms had outstanding reputations. The combined firm also benefits from Greensfelder’s legacy franchise, energy, and closely held business practices, and Ulmer’s immigration practice and bench strength in products liability.

The merger also creates geographic synergies. Greensfelder and Ulmer had overlapping offices in Chicago, one of the nation’s most important business hubs, and complementary strategic locations throughout the Midwest and in other toptier

business centers. This includes Ulmer’s legacy offices in Cleveland; Columbus, Ohio; Cincinnati; New York; Washington, DC; and Florida, and Greensfelder’s legacy offices in St. Louis and Southern Illinois. UB Greensfelder’s largest offices by attorney headcount are in St. Louis (with over 100 lawyers), Cleveland (with approximately 75 lawyers), and Chicago and Cincinnati (with approximately 30 lawyers each).

In addition to McLaughlin and Kadish as co-managing partners, Heather Henry, previously Greensfelder’s Chief Operating Officer, will assume the same position at UB Greensfelder, leading all firm operations.

UB Greensfelder is a full-service, Am Law 200, super-regional law firm focused on exceeding client expectations and delivering superior, customized legal solutions. Created in 2024 through the merger of Ulmer & Berne LLP and Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C., the firm’s 275 lawyers advise regional, national, and global businesses on a wide range of legal matters across more than 25 specialized practice and industry groups. UB Greensfelder has nine primary office locations, including Chicago; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Columbus, Ohio; Florida; New York; Southern Illinois; St. Louis; and Washington, DC. For more information, please visit www. UBGlaw.com.

Allied First Bank was reimagined as Servbank in February 2024. Founded in 1994, Servbank is a banking institution with local roots and national reach. They were built on a foundation of communityorientation, which ensures that no

matter who they serve, they do so with the human touch that marks the gold standard of service. They work with individuals, businesses, and communities, so that whether you’re a student, a homeowner, a small business owner, or a community leader, they can help you fulfill your goals.

UFS Launches Advisory Services, Joining Forces with CIO365 to Further Empower Community Banks

UFS, a trusted technology outfitter for community banks since 1991, is thrilled to welcome Bill Lehner, owner of CIO365 to UFS. Bill’s deep experience and expertise will be critical to expanding the scope of services to support the CIO, CISO, and technology strategic planning requirements banks often can’t source internally. These services will further expand the broad range of purpose built products and services offered that empower banks to thrive in a dynamic environment.

At UFS, they understand the landscape of community banking and the need for innovative, purpose built technology solutions backed by best in class customer support. With Bill joining the team, they are further solidifying their dedication to empowering community banks by providing guidance and advice to enable community banks to make sense out of a complex technology landscape. This integration brings immediate benefits to CIO365’s community bank customers, including continuity of services

for many years to come and access to a comprehensive suite of products and services which include cybersecurity, core banking, private cloud, managed IT, all wrapped in regulatory compliance.

Bill Lehner, founder of CIO365, will spearhead UFS’s CIO services. Bill brings a wealth of knowledge in banking technology and will enhance UFS’s capabilities and ensure the sustainability of services provided. The CIO365 customers are welcomed to the UFS Community, which is quickly growing and currently serves a diverse range of banks across 12 states. This union will foster a dynamic exchange of insights, strengthening our collective expertise in guiding and advising community banks on their technology strategy, a domain in which the CIO365 team has excelled for years.

According to Mike Venaccio, VP of UFS, “Bill is a perfect fit for UFS and our customers. We are excited to welcome Bill to the team and bring purpose built CIO services for community banks to our customers."

Bill expressed his enthusiasm for this strategic move, stating, "I am excited about the opportunity to join such a high quality and reputable organization. We are convinced that this move will bring significant value to our loyal clients."

Mike Tenpas, CEO of UFS, emphasized the importance of people in the world of technology. "With Bill, founder of CIO365, joining our team, we are delighted to welcome an exceptional leader with a significant experience in bank technology and technology

INDUSTRY NEWS

compliance. It was obvious from my first meeting with Bill that he was the right person, with the right heart and experience to lead our launch of UFS Advisory Services and our vCIO practice. I’m excited that we were able to bring this together quickly.”

S&P Announces 2023

Best-Performing Midwest Community Banks List

S&P Global Market Intelligence recently released its list of Best Performing Community Banks. Included in the list for the Midwest were Community Bank of Easton, Easton, Illinois (#7); Hill-Dodge Banking Co., Warsaw, Illinois (#10); First Trust and Savings Bank of Watseka, Watseka, Illinois (#24); Table Grove State Bank, Table Grove, Illinois (#33); Vermillion Valley Bank, Piper City, Illinois (#35); Grundy Bank, Morris, Illinois (#36); Frederick Community Bank, Paxton, Illinois (#37); Municipal Trust & Savings Bank, Bourbonnais, Illinois (#42); Bank of Rantoul, Rantoul, Illinois (#46); and First Federal Savings Bank of Champaign-Urbana, Champaign, Illinois (#49).

ADVERTISING INDEX

ABA

For Large Community Banks nationwide, S&P ranked HBT Financial, Bloomington, Illinois (#10); Old Second Bancorp Inc., Aurora, Illinois (#43); United Community Bancorp Inc., Chatham, Illinois (#48); and First American Bank Corp, Elk Grove Village, Illinois (#50).

Congratulations to all of the banks receiving recognition!

About This Analysis

To compile this ranking, S&P Global Market Intelligence calculated scores for each company based on seven metrics: pretax return on average assets, cost of funds, year-over-year change in operating revenue, net charge-offs to average loans and leases ratio, nonperforming assets and loans 90 days or more past due as a percentage of total assets, gross loans and leases and held to maturity securities

to total deposits, and adjusted tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio weighted at 25%, 20%, 10%, 10%, 10%, 10% and 15%, respectively. Each company's standard deviation from the industry mean was calculated for every ranking metric, weighted, then combined to derive a performance score. To help normalize the data and mitigate the impact of outliers, caps and floors were applied for each metric.

Criteria for the ranking included a gross loans and leases-to-total assets ratio of at least 33% with no more than half of those loans in credit cards; a leverage ratio of at least 5%; no active severe enforcement action; a result other than "substantial noncompliance" or "needs to improve" in the bank's most recent Community Reinvestment Act exam; a yield on loans and leases of no more than three times the industry median of 5.74%; and no more than half of the entity's revenue coming from nontraditional banking activities. Additionally, industrial banks, nondepository trusts, companies with a bankers' bank certification, and banks with parent companies that have total assets of $10 billion or more were omitted.

Based on the above criteria, 1,818 banks and thrifts were eligible for ranking.

800-BANKERS aba.com/MarketingLifecycle

Banzai 888-822-6924 teachbanzai.com

Cinnaire 517-482-8555 cinnaire.com

Howard and Howard 312-372-4000 h2law.com

Stonier Graduate School of Banking

800-BANKERS aba.com/StonierIL

DBE - Data Business Equipment, Inc. 800-373-3000 databusinessequipment.com

MIB - Midwest Independent Bankers Bank 800-347-4642 mibanc.com

S&P Global 434-951-4419 spglobal.com

Illinois Bankers Insurance Services 217-789-9340 insurance@illinois.bank

BankTalentHQ 217-789-9340 banktalenthq@illinois.bank

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

The IBA 50-Year Club

The Illinois Bankers Association recognized two Illinois bankers on their induction into the IBA’s 50-Year Club. The 50-Year Club recognizes and celebrates bankers who have achieved 50-plus years in the industry! A 50Year Club nomination is a capstone event for a banker filled with rewarding experiences and achievements.

Anchor

State Bank Celebrates Two 50-Year Club Inductees

The Illinois Bankers Association recognized Merle Coile, who began his career as a bank Director for Anchor State Bank in 1974. Mr. Coile is retired and the former Owner of Coile’s Diesel, Inc a semi tractor repair company located in Saybrook, Illinois.

James R. Eckert is recognized for his 56 years in the banking industry. Mr. Eckert began his career at The First National Bank of Normal serving as the Cashier from February 1968 through July 1977.

In July 1977 he joined the Bank of Kenney as President and Director until June 1979. In June 1979, Mr. Eckert moved to Anchor State Bank and was appointed President of the bank. Mr. Eckert stepped down as President in January 2024 and serves as the acting Chief Executive Officer.

The IBA congratulates Merle Coile and Jim Eckert on this wonderful career achievement!

Lincoln Presidential Foundation Announces Ed Wehmer as Recipient of the 2024 Wayne Whalen “Charity for All” Award

In recognition of his community leadership and generosity

The Lincoln Presidential Foundation (“Foundation”) is proud to announce Ed Wehmer, Executive Chairman of the Board and Founder of Wintrust, will receive its 2024 Wayne Whalen “Charity for All”

Award. This award, inspired by Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address, recognizes individuals like Wehmer who exemplify civic leadership, generosity of spirit, and a commitment to the ideals of this nation. The presentation of the award will take place during the Foundation’s Lincoln Leadership Prize event honoring Jon Meacham on May 21st, 2024, at the Four Seasons Chicago.

Ed Wehmer will be the third-ever recipient of the “Charity for All” award and the first in Chicago since it was renamed in 2022 in honor of longtime Board Member and Chairman Emeritus Wayne Whalen.

Newt and Jo Minow were the first recipients of the “Charity of All” award in 2017. Judy Woodruff became the second-ever recipient of the award, which the Foundation bestowed at an event in Washington, DC, in 2023.

Wehmer is the Executive Chairman of the Board of Wintrust Financial Corporation. He serves as an executive leader of the Northwestern Memorial Foundation and Lurie Children's Hospital and is active on many other non-profit boards. With his wife Dorothy, he champions charitable causes, including Misericordia, Loyola Academy, and Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. His philanthropy has been inspired in part by his own experiences in his youth. He held various jobs while attending school, including working as a delivery boy, cooler cleaner, and parking lot guard. He is dedicated to causes that promote health and human services, particularly for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and to giving hardworking students “a leg up in the world.”

“We’re delighted to recognize Ed Wehmer for his dedicated civic leadership and devotion to improving lives and communities throughout the Chicago area,” said Erin Carlson Mast, Lincoln Presidential Foundation’s President & CEO. “Ed and Wintrust have also been steadfast supporters of our mission, and we appreciate their generosity and partnership.”

"I am honored to accept the Wayne Whalen ‘Charity for All’ Award from the Lincoln Presidential Foundation,” stated Ed Wehmer. “Abraham Lincoln’s leadership and response to the adversities of his time serve as an inspiration and constant reminder to always lead with compassion for others.”

Merle Coile, Jim Eckert, and Julie Winterbauer, Senior Vice President, Illinois Bankers Association

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

Congratulations RACHEL SELVAGGIO

LEADERS

Rachel Selvaggio Appointed to ABA Emerging Leaders Council

Rachel Selvaggio, the Illinois Bankers Association’s Director of Forums and Future Leaders

Alliance has been appointed to the American Bankers Association's prestigious Emerging Leaders Council. The ABA Emerging Leaders Council was created in 2019 and is composed of bank leaders from 50 states and banks of all sizes and areas of expertise. Rachel is one of only four representatives from state associations across the country to serve on the Council.

The mission of the Council is to attract, connect, and develop the current and next generation of bankers to lead our industry. The Council will guide ABA in the creation of new opportunities

to engage emerging leaders in leadership development, networking, mentoring, and advocacy. They will seek to complement, reinforce, and integrate the emerging leader programming developed by state bankers’ associations and identify opportunities to build on existing financial literacy and community engagement programs.

Randy Hultgren, President and CEO of the IBA, noted, “Rachel is an emerging leader within the IBA and is sure to have an impact on future leaders nationwide. This recognition by the ABA amplifies the wonderful work that Rachel is doing to develop the emerging banking leaders in Illinois.”

Rachel commented, “It is an honor to represent the Illinois Bankers Association and the emerging bank leaders in Illinois. I know firsthand the quality and depth of the banking leaders in this state and look forward to having an impact nationwide.”

Hobson Receives Volunteer of the Year Award

Ron Hobson, Vice PresidentRelationship Manager, Midwest Independent BankersBank received the coveted Volunteer of the Year award at the IBA’s The ONE Conference held March 7-8, 2024 in East Peoria. This award honors Ron’s commitment to the industry and recognizes his effort to go “above and beyond” in service to the IBA.

Ron has been a longtime member of the IBA's Communications and

Marketing Committee. When the IBA was first looking for an Associate Member to sit on the committee, Ron raised his hand and never looked back. He's an active member of the committee, providing much-needed marketing feedback and insight not only from the bank side, but from the Associate Member side as well.

He is always available to jump in and help whenever we need something, whether it be recording a video testimonial, reviewing the IBA website, providing Illinois Banker magazine articles and article ideas, or recommending speakers for our various IBA conferences and events.

When the IBA first moved into its new office space on the west side of Springfield 5 years ago, Ron was the very first visitor, welcoming us with a smile on his face and even jumping in to unload some of our boxes.

The IBA is grateful for Ron and our more than 200 volunteer bankers and associates who serve on one or more IBA boards or committees and congratulates Ron for receiving this lasting recognition.

Congratulations, Ron!

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

RETIREMENT

Matthew Doherty, Executive Vice President and Treasurer of Heartland Bank and Trust Company, officially retired on Friday, March 1, 2024, after nearly 14 years of service.

Doherty started with Heartland Bank in 2010 and served as the Company’s first full-time Chief Financial Officer until his position transition to Treasurer at the end of 2022. With over 32 years of experience in the banking industry, he played a key role in building the finance department and accounting practices through a period

of substantial growth. His guidance and expertise were crucial to the Company’s merger and acquisition process, and HBT Financial’s initial public offering in 2019.

Prior to joining the Company, Doherty worked at a number of financial institutions, including money center banks, where his primary roles included advising community bank clients on fixed income securities and capital market solutions.

He also served on IBA’s Annual Conference Committee in 2010-11. Congratulations, Matt!

IN MEMORY

Daniel L. Goodwin

It is with great sadness that The Inland Real Estate Group of Companies, Inc. (“Inland”) announces that its Founder, Chairman, and CEO Daniel L. Goodwin passed away January 19, 2024 at the age of 80.

“Dan was a pioneer and visionary in the commercial real estate industry, as well as an exceptional human being and friend,” said Robert H. Baum, Inland interim chairman, on behalf of fellow Inland principals and co-founders G. Joseph Cosenza and Robert D. Parks.

“Dan’s legacy leaves an indelible mark upon the commercial real estate and investment industry and the thousands of lives he impacted through his many civic and philanthropic endeavors, especially in the areas of affordable housing, higher education, and good government. On behalf of the Inland Board and over 1,000 employees across the country, our thoughts and prayers are with the Goodwin family, and we extend our deepest and most heartfelt sympathies to them during this difficult time.”

A native Chicagoan, Mr. Goodwin earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Illinois public universities. Upon graduation, he went to work as a science teacher

on the city’s West Side for five years before embarking on a legendary real estate career with his fellow teachers Baum, Cosenza, and Parks. Speaking about selecting real estate as his career, Mr. Goodwin once said, “my aim has always been to democratize real estate and to help all people gain access to the dignity of calling a place their home.” Since Inland’s inception in 1968, the company grew under Mr. Goodwin’s leadership into one of the nation’s largest commercial real estate, investment, and finance groups. Collectively, Inland entities have raised over $26 billion in capital, conducted over $80 billion dollars in commercial real estate transactions, sponsored over 800 investment programs, and founded six Inland entities that either listed on or merged with a public company on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). In addition, Mr. Goodwin was Chairman of the Board of Inland Bancorp, a multi-bank holding company sold to Byline Bank in 2023.

Mr. Goodwin exhibited equal passion for his family, business, and his personal and philanthropic causes, for which he has received hundreds of local and national business, civic, and philanthropic awards. “In business, you are always pursuing growth and higher profits. That is how success is measured,” Mr. Goodwin once remarked. “But there is also a responsibility to do good when one has done well. For me, that is a more rewarding definition of success."

FUTURE LEADERS ALLIANCE

Class of 2024 Graduates

Tricia Poisson First Bank C icago

Ann Cleven Community Savings Bank

An ie Eric son

An ie Carlstrom

Brittany Herman Grundy Bank

Kyle Bucsa Signature Bank

Brandt Hutchcra t Farmers National Bank

Kendra Jayne State Bank o Bement

Jo Lea Holevoet Farmers National Bank

Chad Johnson State Bank o Bement Monticello

Heather Himstedt Busey Bank

Jason Po ell Lisle Savings Bank

Gina Meier Bank o Belleville

Trevor Seibring Heartland Bank & Trust Co

James S ndby Alliance Community Bank

Dale ells Central Bank Illinois

Mary arol Tl sty F BC Bank & Trust

Abby Yowell Republic Bank of Chicago

Marilyn Valdivia Sauk Valley Bank & Trust Co.

Nathan Van Zele I B, ational Association

Kim Smith First Bank Chicago

Jason Snyder Philo Exchange Bank

Debbie Steele Lisle Savings Bank

Michael Schasane Illinois Bankers Association

Vanessa Veersma Signature Bank

Congratulations, Angie, Tricia and Kim

Angela Carlstrom VP/BSA Officer

Tricia Poisson VP/System & Applications Support

Kim Smith VP/Loan Servicing

We are grateful for your leadership, expertise and commitment to First Bank Chicago as we deliver banking solutions throughout the Chicagoland area. Congratulations on completing the Future Leaders Alliance Program

Congratulations

Empowering Futures, Cultivating Leaders: Congratulations to our Graduates of the Illinois Bankers Future Leaders Alliance Program! Congratulations Angie Erickson, Brandt Hutchcraft, & Jo Lea Holevoet. We appreciate your hard work & dedication!

Cleven Communications Manager

Ann Cleven

Illinois Bankers Association Future Leaders Alliance Program Graduate

ank you for your dedication to the banking industry and to our community.

Ann

2024 PEER GROUPS

Connecting Bankers. Advancing Banking.®

Examine pressing issues, exchange ideas, and share solutions among colleagues in a comfortable and professional environment.

MARKETING

8 TBD Brett Jackson, Systemax

(Both Sessions) CASH MANAGEMENT / TREASURY February 28 October 30 Karl Nelson, KPN Consulting

CEO (SMALL BANK)

Up to $150MM in Assets

$150 to $750MM in Assets

May 8, August 14, November 13

Cliff Bumgarner, Kerber, Eck & Braeckel LLP

February 14, July 10, October 16 Karl Nelson, KPN Consulting

(Both Sessions)

(M) / $700 (NM) (Three Sessions)

(Three Sessions) CEO (MIDWEST)

$750MM+ in Assets

CFO (CENTRAL ILLINOIS)

May 15, September 25

May 10, August 23, November 15

Justin Freeman, RSM US LLP $400 (Two Sessions)

Steve Schick & Sherrie Krowczyk-Mendoza, Plante Moran

(Three Sessions) CFO (NORTHERN ILLINOIS)

May 17, August 16, November 8 Vivian Myers, RSM US LLP $600 (Three Sessions)

April 12, July 12, October 11

Sarah Hammond & Julia Sheehan, RSM US LLP, Kathy Enbom, Wipfli LLP, & Brian Crow, TCA

March 14, August 29, October 3 Dianne Barton & Denise Wilson, Performance Solutions, Inc.

(M) / $450 (NM) (per session)

$745 (M) / $1,245 (NM) (Three Sessions) HUMAN RESOURCES

May 15, October 9

Emily Bennett, Howard & Howard & Angela Adams, HR Source

July 24, October 23 David Ruffin, IntelliCredit

May 3, August 2, November 1

April 4, July 25, October 29

April 26, August 30, November 22

Christie Drexler, Drexler Consulting LLC

Ben LeClaire, Plante Moran

(M) / $500 (NM) (Both Sessions)

$745 (M) / $1,245 (NM) (Three Sessions)

$600 (Three Sessions)