A Legacy of Leadership: Highlights from the IBA Women in Banking Conference

Shareholder, Real Estate Default Group Chair, and Chicago Office Managing Attorney Casey Hicks and Chicago Attorney Laura Alms recently attended the annual Illinois Bankers Association Women in Banking Conference held in Springfield, Illinois on October 2^nd - 3^rd. This year marked the 25^th anniversary of the conference. The event honored the foundation of women's leadership built over the last quarter century while also looking to the future, celebrating a new generation of women bankers. 
 

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Nearly 200 women bankers joined from across the state of Illinois to take part in the Legacy of Leadership. The 2025 Women in Banking Awards ceremony was particularly inspirational. Fourteen women of distinction were nominated for awards for their leadership, achievement, and impact on the banking industry.  Among the highlights of the awards was the recognition of Samantha Patrick of INB National Association as the IBA Woman on the Rise and Kathy Yocum of Stillman Bank as the IBA Woman of the Year.

Congratulations to all who were nominated! 
 
This year's conference was filled with empowering presentations covering a wide range of topics from industry insights to personal growth. Particularly compelling was the panel discussion led by four industry leaders, Elizabeth Okey of Wintrust Financial Corp., Courtney Olson of First Bank Chicago, Ashley Speed of Grundy Bank, and Denise Ward of Central Bank Illinois. The panel shared their diverse backgrounds, with insights into the future of community banking, how to advocate for yourself, and work-life balance.  
 
Finally, the conference paid beautiful tribute to Amy Sale of the Illinois Bakers Association who lost her battle to cancer this year. In honor of Amy, the conference raffled off dozens of amazing baskets to raise $3,700.00 for the Susan G. Komen Organization to assist in the ongoing fight against breast cancer. It was an honor to take part in the support of a worthy cause and celebrate the impactful life of Amy.
 
We are already looking forward to next year's conference as Weltman's Illinois women lawyers continue to support Illinois women bankers! Laura shared that the conference was not only an inspiring reminder of the progress women have made in the banking industry, but also a motivating call to continue supporting one another as leaders, mentors, and changemakers. “It was incredible to connect with so many accomplished women and hear their stories,” Laura said. “I left feeling both inspired and energized to bring new ideas back to our clients and colleagues at Weltman.”

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If you have any questions about this event or want to learn more about Weltman’s collection solutions, please connect with Laura at any time.

These blogs are not a solicitation for business and are not intended to constitute legal advice on specific matters, create an attorney-client relationship, or be legally binding in any way.