The future of our industry hinges on tomorrow’s community bank leaders. Each year, the Community Bankers of Washington (CBW) awards one NextGen Scholarship, and two additional applicants receive a John Collins Leadership Award to ensure that future industry leaders are being prepared for the jobs of tomorrow. The scholarship and awards provide a pathway to help prospective bank leaders achieve their career aspirations, refine business acumen and seek innovative solutions to the challenges facing community banks.
These deserving recipients have the opportunity to attend ICBA’s LEAD FWD Summit, which provides training and insights rooted in leadership development, technical banking, advocacy and a multitude of hot-topic banking issues.
CBW is excited to help you nurture the top talent at your bank!
Requirements To Qualify for Scholarship/Award and To Receive Funds
- Submit application by Aug. 8, 2023
- Must be a community banker employed at a community bank that is a member of both CBW and ICBA at the time the LEAD FWD Summit takes place
- Must complete a post-event survey before receiving funds
- NextGen Scholarship winner must submit receipts for travel (airfare, hotel, etc.) to qualify for reimbursement.
NextGen Scholarship Includes:
Complimentary registration (and all benefits conveyed with conference registration) to participate in the ICBA LEAD FWD Summit, Sept. 18-19, 2023, in Kansas City, Missouri. Plus, up to $1,350 in travel costs.
John Collins Leadership Award Includes:
50% discount on registration (and all benefits conveyed with conference registration) to participate in the ICBA LEAD FWD Summit, Sept. 18-19, 2023, in Kansas City, Missouri. Plus, $1,000 to be paid to the sponsoring bank to help cover costs.
Due by August 8.
Submit your application today!
https://www.communitybankers-wa.org/nextgen-scholarship-2023.html
Here is what past attendees have to say …
ICBA’s LEAD FWD Summit was a great opportunity to learn what being a community banker is all about. It was an honor to receive CBW’s NextGen Scholarship to be able to attend an event where I gained valuable leadership skills, participated in strategic brainstorming and discussions surrounding several current banking issues, and had the opportunity to connect and foster lasting relationships with other community bankers from around the country.
— Ryan Deckard, AVP/Commercial Relationship Officer, State Bank Northwest
Attending the ICBA leadership conference through the NextGen Scholarship was a game-changing opportunity for me. Without this support, I would not have had the opportunity to attend the event. By seizing this chance, I was able to enhance my leadership abilities and establish lasting connections with fellow professionals in the banking industry, many of whom I still maintain contact with today. These newfound skills and relationships have not only propelled my personal growth but have also made me a more valuable asset to my organization.
The conference boasted an impressive lineup of speakers who delivered insightful talks on introspection, leadership and various pertinent banking subjects. Whether it was the captivating keynote address or the engaging breakout sessions, every aspect of the conference provided me with valuable knowledge and fresh perspectives. The broad range of topics and ideas that were shared left a lasting impact on me.
One of the conference’s focal points was exploring different facets of leadership, including effective employee recruitment and retention, as well as fostering a positive organizational culture that embraces growth and individuality. The sessions delved into practical strategies for nurturing professional development and urged us to devise plans within our respective institutions to foster growth and innovation.
Overall, the NextGen Scholarship enabled me to access a wealth of knowledge and networking opportunities at the conference, empowering me to refine my leadership skills and contribute more effectively to my organization’s success.
— Karah Cowan, Director of Digital Banking and Deposit Operations, Community First Bank
