Card Programs: How to Drive Growth in 2026 by Keeping Them Relevant
By Tina Zulich Debit and credit card programs have been around for decades, and many financial institutions are focused on newer priorities: AI, instant payments, embedded finance, open banking, and digital experiences. But cards are still central to everyday banking — powering purchases, generating useful data, and helping community banks build stronger account holder relationships….
Recognizing Elder Financial Exploitation …and What to Do About It
By Mark Dever Elder financial exploitation is rising, calling for stronger safeguards for older adults. The National Adult Protective Services Association defines elder financial exploitation (EFE) as the “illegal or improper use of an older person’s or vulnerable adult’s funds, property, or assets.” EFE is one type of elder abuse, which includes physical, sexual, emotional…
Culture Fit vs. Culture Add: Understanding the Difference
By Mark Angott When you’re hiring a new manager, director, or VP, one question typically comes up in the interview process: Will this person fit into our culture? It’s a reasonable question. Culture matters. But it raises an important distinction that many organizations haven’t fully considered: Are you looking for Culture Fit or Culture Add?…
M&T Elects Jerry Jacobs Jr. to Board
BUFFALO, N.Y.,—M&T Bank Corp. has elected Jerry Jacobs Jr., chief executive officer of Delaware North, to its board of directors. He also was elected to the board of M&T Bank, the company’s principal banking subsidiary. Jacobs joined Delaware North in 1986 and has held a series of leadership positions, including overseeing the company’s Sportservice division…
Mary Kay Bennett Retires from Bank of Luxemburg
LUXEMBURG, Wis.,—Mary Kay Bennett, retail market manager, has retired from Bank of Luxemburg after a 37-year banking career, including 23 years with the bank, according to Darren Voigt, president and CEO. Bennett joined Bank of Luxemburg in 2003 and served as a retail sales representative, branch manager and retail market manager. She studied business administration…
Associated Bank Hires AI Executive
MINNEAPOLIS,—Associated Bank has hired Andy Miner as senior director of artificial intelligence for corporate and commercial banking. Miner reports to Phillip Trier, executive vice president and head of corporate and commercial banking, and will lead Associated’s AI strategy for the business line, including implementation, adoption, risk oversight and data governance. “Banking is ultimately about understanding…
First National Adds Commercial Lenders
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.,—First National Bank of Michigan has appointed Simay Newell and Shain Showers as vice presidents and relationship managers. The pair will build and enhance business banking relationships in the Grand Rapids area. “We are happy to welcome Shain and Simay,” said Mike Hollander, Grand Rapids market president. “Their dedication to the local business…
Citizens National Announces Promotions, Leadership Additions
CHEBOYGAN, Mich.—Citizens National Bank has promoted Sheri Popp, Jessica Smith-Schley and Felix Smith and added Jennifer Opie and Kari Kortz to its leadership team, according to Matthew Keene, president and CEO. Popp was promoted to assistant vice president and credit officer. She joined Citizens National in 2018 as a credit analyst and later advanced to…
Isabella COO Peggy Wheeler Retires
Erika Ross Named Successor MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,—Isabella Bank Chief Operations Officer Peggy Wheeler has retired after a 49-year career with the bank, the longest tenure of any employee in its history. Erika Ross has been promoted to chief operations officer. Wheeler joined Isabella Bank in 1977 in the bookkeeping department and advanced through a series…
Old National Again Named to Civic 50
EVANSVILLE, Ind.,—Old National Bank has been named to Points of Light’s The Civic 50 for the third consecutive year, recognizing it among the nation’s 50 most community-minded organizations. Old National also was named the 2026 Financials Sector Leader, recognizing it as the top financial services organization among this year’s The Civic 50 honorees. “Being named…