Women in Banking

Women in Banking 2026 Graphic

Women in Banking

July 16-17, 2026

Register

The IBA Women in Banking Conference brings together professionals at every stage of their career for keynotes, leadership sessions, and conversations about the trends reshaping banking. Whether you're looking for new strategies, peer perspectives, or a push toward your next challenge, you'll find it here. What to expect:

- Keynotes from leaders making an impact in banking and beyond
- Sessions focused on leadership, trends, and professional development
- Networking with women who understand your goals
- An awards ceremony honoring excellence across Illinois banking

2026 Women in Banking Awards Nominations (Nomination Deadline: May 31, 2026)
The Women in Banking Award Ceremony will recognize outstanding achievements by honoring women who are making significant contributions to the banking industry. These accolades celebrate leadership, influence, and impact across the industry. Nominate fellow banking colleagues for the following awards:

Agenda

THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Registration + Raffle for Charity

10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
OPENING SESSION: The Art of Building Relationships
Elise Powers, Founder, Eleview Consulting

11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Networking Lunch

12:45 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Tokenized Money: What’s Real, What’s Next
Brooke Ybarra, SVP Innovation and Strategy, American Bankers Association

1:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Breakout Sessions

3:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Honoring Excellence: Women in Banking Award Ceremony

4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Networking & Celebration Reception

FRIDAY, JULY 17, 2026
7:45 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
Breakfast Buffet

8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
General Session – Steve Thomas

9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
PANEL DISCUSSION - Empowering Women in Banking: Stories of Impact and Leadership

11:00 a.m. – Noon
CLOSING SESSION: Own Your P.A.T.H.
April Lewis, Certified Coach, Leadership & Workplace Culture Expert

Speakers

Speakers

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Elise Powers

Keynote Speaker
Founder
Eleview Consulting

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April Lewis, MBA

Combat Veteran
Certified Executive Coach
Leadership & Workplace Culture Expert

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Lora Kalka

FNBC
2025 Recognition of Excellence Honoree

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Kathy S. Kincaid

Carrollton Bank
2025 Woman of Impact

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Samantha Patrick

INB
2025 Woman on the Rise

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Anne Schutt

VP of Business Development Midwestern Securities
Director & Private Wealth Advisor, Fortress Wealth Planning Group

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Steve Thomas

Leadership Speaker
Workforce Development

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Brooke Ybarra

SVP Innovation & Strategy
American Bankers Association

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Kathy Yocum

Stillman Bank
2025 Woman of the Year

Charity

Event details

Event details

Hotel Accommodations

Crowne Plaza Springfield
3000 South Dirksen Parkway
Room Rate $130/night (by July 1)
Online Reservations
Phone: 217-529-7777

Fee Per Person

IBA Member $345 | Nonmember $495
Special Registration Offer: Register three, and get the fourth FREE!

Questions? education@illinois.bank
217-789-9340

Women in Banking Committee

Passionate about empowering women in the banking industry? Join the Women in Banking Committee and contribute to planning next year's Women in Banking Conference. For questions, contact Lyndee Fein.

Learn More

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