Annual Conference Online Access

Welcome to the 2025 Annual Conference Online Access!
We trust you'll enjoy this event and the opportunity to expand your horizons professionally, strategically, and collaboratively, as we shape the future of banking together. 

To help navigate your experience, please review the essential information below, including the agenda, keynote speakers, session descriptions, PAC events, attendee toolkit, exhibitors, and sponsors.

Connect with one of our team members onsite for assistance navigating this website or contact our team via email at education@illinois.bank for assistance.

Agenda

Agenda

MONDAY, JUNE 23, 2025
11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.    PAC GOLF OUTING OR CULINARY EXPERIENCE (registration required)
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.     LEADERSHIP DINNER (invite only)
8:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.   WELCOME MIXER – OPEN TO ALL ATTENDEES
TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2025
7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. IBA BOARD OF DIRECTOR’S MEETING (closed)
8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. REGISTRATION & CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
9:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. RAPID-FIRE PARTNER PRESENTATIONS
9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.GUEST ACTIVITY – LAKE GENEVA BOAT, BITE & BOUTIQUE
9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.   OPENING SESSION
Welcome – Randy Hultgren, President & CEO, Illinois Bankers
2025 Illinois Banker of the Year Award Announcement
10:00 a.m.  – 10:50 a.m.  OPENING KEYNOTE
NAVIGATING TURBULENT WATERS: THE FUTURE OF BANKING IN A CHANGING ECONOMY
Thomas Hoenig, Senior Fellow, Mercatus Center at George Mason University
Former Vice Chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (2012-2018)
11:00 a.m. - Noon BANKER ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS (by Asset Size)
Noon - 1:00 p.m. LUNCH BUFFET IN VENDOR MARKETPLACE
1:15 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. BREAKOUT SESSIONS
COMPENSATION TRENDS IN TODAY’S BANKING ENVIRONMENT
Matt Brei, Blanchard Consulting Group
STRATEGIC LOAN GROWTH
Dan Marks, Infusion Marketing Group

HANDICAPPING YOUR BALANCE SHEET: MAXIMIZE NET INTEREST MARGIN IN 2025
Todd Taylor & Will Craycraft, HUB | Taylor Advisors
PARTNERING WITH FINTECH
Stephanie Jennings, Wipfli LLP
2:00 p.m - 2:30 p.m. BREAK IN VENDOR MARKETPLACE
2:30 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. BREAKOUT SESSIONS
THE ART AND SCIENCE OF PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT: ALIGNING PEOPLE,
PRODUCTIVITY, AND PURPOSE FOR LASTING SUCCESS
Brooke Lively, Cathcap

EXAMINING THE INDUSTRY’S PERSISTENT, PERVASIVE, AND POWERFUL PROBLEM
Matthew Reader Forgotson, Performance Trust Capital Partners

AI 101: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT AI AND BANKING TODAY
Cody Dezler, SBS CyberSecurity

WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2025 AND BEYOND FOR BANK M&A
AND BANK INNOVATION/PAYMENT MATTERS
Jim Morrissey & Mark Svalina, Vedder Price P.C.
3:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. BANKERS ONLY SESSION: NETWORKING LOUNGE AND EXECUTIVE BRIEFING
Enjoy open bar and light appetizers while networking with fellow bankers, followed by an
executive briefing on current issues and opportunities presented by Robert M. Fleetwood,
Partner and Group Co-Chair, and John M. Geiringer, Partner and Regulatory Section
Leader, Barack Ferrazzano Financial Institutions Group.
5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. NETWORKING RECEPTION IN VENDOR MARKETPLACE
8:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.       HOSPITALITY SUITE – OPEN TO ALL ATTENDEES
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25, 2025
8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.      BREAKFAST BUFFET IN VENDOR MARKETPLACE
9:00 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.     IBA ANNUAL MEETING & SALUTE TO LEADERSHIP
Installation of the 2025-2026 Board of Directors and Community Service Awards
9:45 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. ILLINOIS BANKING LEGISLATIVE & LEGAL UPDATE
Ben Jackson, EVP, Government Relations, Illinois Bankers
Carolyn Settanni, EVP, General Counsel, Illinois Bankers
10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.  BREAK IN VENDOR MARKETPLACE
11:00 a.m. CLOSING KEYNOTE
ACHIEVING YOUR PERSONAL BEST
Bonnie Blair, 5-Time Olympic Gold Medalist, Coach, & Leadership Speaker

Keynote Speakers

THOMAS HOENIG

Senior Fellow, Mercatus Center at George Mason University 
Former Vice Chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (2012-2018)

June 23, Opening Keynote

Thomas Hoenig_LinkedIn.jpeg

NAVIGATING TURBULENT WATERS: THE FUTURE OF BANKING IN A CHANGING ECONOMY
The economy and banking system are undergoing significant transformation, driven by the introduction of tariffs and other economic and fiscal policies. These include Congress considering extending tax cuts and increasing spending, which would push the national debt to unprecedented levels. In this uncertain environment, questions arise about how regional and community banks will be impacted, especially as small businesses - key bank customers - may cut back on growth. Meanwhile, the largest banks will play a central role in financing the growing national debt, benefiting from lower capital requirements and greater deposit security. These conditions may also impact community bank deregulation and consolidation. This session will explore these collective, and significant, changes and discuss how the industry may adapt and secure a strong future for community banking.

BONNIE BLAIR

5-Time Olympic Gold Medalist, Coach, & Leadership Speaker

June 25, Closing Keynote

ACHIEVING YOUR PERSONAL BEST
Join Olympic legend Bonnie Blair as she shares her inspiring journey to becoming one of the most decorated Winter Olympians in U.S. history. In this session, Blair will reveal the key principles that led to her extraordinary success: DEDICATION, BALANCE, and RISK-TAKING. Blair’s journey from her early days in Champaign to her training in Milwaukee and ultimately to Olympic glory exemplifies the power of dedication. She’ll discuss how her unwavering commitment to her sport led to consistent improvement and record-breaking performances. The session will also explore the importance of maintaining balance in life, even while pursuing ambitious goals. Blair will share insights on how she managed the pressures of elite competition while staying grounded and focused. From her decision to move to Milwaukee for training to her approach in high-stakes Olympic races, she’ll illustrate how embracing challenges can lead to breakthrough performances whether in sports, business, or personal growth.

Bonnie Blair - cropped.jpg

Session Descriptions

EXECUTIVE BRIEFING ON CURRENT ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Robert M. Fleetwood, Partner, Group Co-Chair; and John M. Geiringer, Partner,
Regulatory Section Leader, Barack Ferrazzano Financial Institutions Group

Every administration brings new perspectives, but it’s hard to overstate the ongoing 
revolution in banking supervision, and how it continues to impact the industry. Couple those changes with economic uncertainty and global instability, and bankers are constantly challenged to stay current and evaluate how these developments could impact their customers and their banks. This session features an executive briefing on current legal and regulatory issues and trends affecting financial institutions. The focus will be on practical suggestions and best practices taken from long-time experience in representing a large and diverse banking practice. At the end of this session, participants should understand the key legal and compliance challenges they are likely to face in the coming year.

ILLINOIS BANKING LEGISLATIVE & LEGAL UPDATE
Ben Jackson, Executive Vice President and Carolyn Settanni Executive
Vice President & General Counsel, Illinois Bankers Association

Join us for an insightful discussion on the latest developments in banking laws and regulations with the IBA’s chief lobbyist, Ben Jackson, and general counsel, Carolyn Settanni. This session will highlight critical topics, such as our battle against the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act, the latest new laws from the recently-concluded Illinois legislative session, nonstop federal banking agency shifts, and more. Attendees will gain valuable insights into regulatory changes, compliance challenges, and advocacy efforts shaping the future of banking in Illinois.

Breakout Sessions

COMPENSATION TRENDS IN TODAY’S BANKING ENVIRONMENT
Matt Brei, Blanchard Consulting Group
In this session, Blanchard Consulting Group shares current trends information from their surveys and databases to cover the topic of total compensation for bank directors, executives, officers, and staff. Current “hot topics” within the compensation landscape will be discussed and recent trends will be reviewed. The session will cover such topics as executive compensation, director compensation, cash and equity-based incentives, benefits, and perquisites. Participants will walk away with current knowledge and data surrounding compensation related topics at all levels of community and regional banks.

THE ART AND SCIENCE OF PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT: ALIGNING PEOPLE, PRODUCTIVITY,
AND PURPOSE FOR LASTING SUCCESS

Brooke Lively, Cathcap

Performance management is a delicate balance of hiring individuals who align with company culture, possess the necessary skills, understand their roles, and consistently deliver results. However, it’s not solely the employee’s responsibility. Effective performance management is a partnership between employer and employee, requiring a balance where staff feel autonomous yet supported, managers can objectively evaluate performance, and goals are both achievable and motivating. Brooke Lively, Founder and President of Cathcap, has combined insights from HR and financial data to develop systems that foster happier, more productive teams across hundreds of companies.

HANDICAPPING YOUR BALANCE SHEET: MAXIMIZE NET INTEREST MARGIN IN 2025
Todd Taylor & Will Craycraft, HUB | Taylor Advisors
Handicapping a balance sheet parallels handicapping a horse race, requiring analysis of diverse data to make informed decisions. In banking, this involves evaluating models, capital reports, and portfolio analyses to optimize risk and reward. Like in racing, favorites don’t always win, emphasizing the importance of refining balance sheet management for long-term success. Top-performing institutions share the goal of balancing profitability with risk in a competitive market. This presentation will utilize peer data to compare your institution’s performance metrics, such as net interest margin and investment yield, against state and national benchmarks. We’ll explore opportunities for improvement and assess your liquidity position relative to competitors. Through interactive polling, participants will gain insights into various balance sheet management approaches, from regulatory compliance to profit optimization, and discuss how these philosophies impact strategies and profitability.

STRATEGIC LOAN GROWTH

Dan Marks, Infusion Marketing Group

As rates decline off a historically fast rise, how far and how fast will rates decline? Where are the best places to develop and deliver quality asset growth? Now more than ever, a commitment to data analytics that drive proven growth strategies is needed. How do we continue to grow loans in dynamic pricing environments with elevated concerns about credit quality? This presentation will answer that question with real, actionable data.

EXAMINING THE INDUSTRY’S PERSISTENT, PERVASIVE, AND POWERFUL PROBLEM

Matthew Reader Forgotson, Performance Trust Capital Partners

Since 1990, 65%+ of FDIC-insured depositories have disappeared. Many of these institutions lost their independence because they accidentally misallocated capital to poor risk/rewards on both sides of the balance sheet. During this session, Matt Forgotson, an award-winning equity research analyst and industry thought leader, will argue that many of these institutions may have been victims of the problem that has long plagued the banking industry, namely a reliance on faulty frameworks and single scenario snapshot metrics. Against this backdrop, the most recent banking crisis and years of constrained NIMs, ROAs, and ROEs that followed in its wake, are simply the most recent manifestation of this persistent, pervasive, and powerful problem. Once the problem is defined, Matt will then propose a remedy: a comprehensive, objective process and framework that empowers managers to make prospective capital allocation decisions with clarity and confidence. Those willing to embrace a more complete analytical view can help protect and potentially even accelerate their missions.

AI 101: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT AI AND BANKING TODAY

Cody Dezler, SBS CyberSecurity
Explore the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in the banking sector in this cutting-edge session. Learn to demystify AI, distinguishing fact from fiction, and demonstrate why financial institutions should embrace this technology to enhance efficiency and productivity. Delve into various AI types, their associated risks, and compelling use cases specific to banking. Learn about AI’s strategic advantages, potential threats, and effective risk mitigation strategies. Gain insights into AI vendor management and practical steps to implement AI in your organization. This session is essential for forward-thinking financial professionals seeking to harness AI’s power and stay ahead in an evolving industry.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2025 AND BEYOND FOR BANK M&A AND BANK
INNOVATION/PAYMENT MATTERS

Jim Morrissey & Mark Svalina, Vedder Price P.C.

This session will explore key developments shaping the banking industry in light of recent administrative changes and regulatory shifts. We will begin by examining emerging trends in bank mergers and acquisitions (M&A), focusing on how the new regulatory environment is influencing deal-making strategies and integration approaches. We will also discuss how banks are tailoring payment services and innovative products to align with evolving regulatory expectations while balancing innovation and compliance. Additionally, we will address confidentiality and privacy challenges associated with bank innovation, including compliance with new open banking rules and related guidance. This session offers actionable insights for navigating the rapidly changing banking landscape of 2025.

PARTNERING WITH FINTECH

Stephanie Jennings, Wipfli LLP

As competition for customers increases and interest rate margins shrink in a rising rate environment, institutions may seek to expand beyond their traditional branch network and reach customers online by partnering with fintech that offer a variety of services. Regulators have issued guidance on managing third party risk when products and services are offered through outside businesses. In addition to consumer compliance risks, these partnerships can present BSA and OFAC risks. In this session we will discuss the various risks that fintech partnerships pose and compliance considerations for managing the relationships.

PAC Events

PAC Events

MONDAY, JUNE 23, 2025 | 11:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.
$250 pp for bankers, guests, and PAC sponsoring associate members
$375 for non-PAC sponsoring associate members

REGISTER for PAC Events

PAC GOLF OUTING
Swing for the green at the Illinois Bankers PAC Annual Conference Golf Outing! Tee off on Grand Geneva’s famed Highlands Course, featuring scenic hills, creeks, and Scottish-inspired, links-style play. All skill levels are welcome as we enjoy great camaraderie and raise funds for the Illinois Bankers PAC — all while rolling through glacier-formed terrain that feels like a trip to Scotland.

PAC CULINARY EXPERIENCE

Join us for the 2025 Illinois Bankers PAC Experience with a culinary event befitting of the laidback luxury of Lake Geneva! Attendees will visit Staller Estate Winery for a vineyard tour complete with a wine tasting and curated menu all while relaxing and enjoying the fellowship of great friends and colleagues. Cheers to a perfect afternoon while investing in our industry’s advocacy efforts!

Disclaimer: A copy of our report filed with the State Board of Elections is (or will be) available on the Board’s official website www.elections.il.gov or for purchase from the State Board of Elections, Springfield, Illinois. All contributions to Illinois Bankers PAC are voluntary. You may refuse to contribute without reprisal. Contributions to Illinois Bankers PAC are not tax deductible.

Attendee Toolkit

Attendee Toolkit

Exhibitors

Exhibitors

Sponsors

Sponsors

Back to Listing