Bowman, in her afternoon update, also addressed the Government Relations Conference attendees and emphasized the importance of tailoring regulations, advocated for a problem-focused approach to bank supervision, and stressed the need for innovation in the banking system. She shared her vision for a balanced regulatory framework that promotes safety and soundness while enabling economic growth and technological advancement in the financial sector. 2025 Bank Leaders of Kansas (BLOK) Academy and Harold A. Stones Government Relations Conference This year’s BLOK Academy welcomed nearly 100 bankers to Topeka Country Club on Feb. 5. KBA President & CEO Doug Wareham kicked off the event with a warm welcome, followed by remarks from Matt Koupal, Executive Vice President and Chief Mission Officer/Chief Legal Officer at FHLBank Topeka (BLOK Class of 2023), who emphasized the significance of this program. The panel reinforced Koupal’s message on the importance of the BLOK Program and addressed the need for strong advocacy for the financial services industry. Jake LaTurner also provided an insightful perspective on the inner workings of Capitol Hill and his tenure in the Kansas Senate. (L-R) Alex Orel, KBA SVP of Government Relations, moderated a panel discussion featuring former Congressman Jake LaTurner and Ryan Gilliland, FVP and Director of Government & Industry Relations at FHLBank Topeka (BLOK Class of 2018). Federal Reserve Governor Miki Bowman (BLOK Class of 2013) joined the BLOK Academy to share insights on her successful career path to the national level. Bowman credited the Bank Leaders of Kansas program for not only important leadership skills, but also for friendships with bankers across the state that will last a lifetime. (Bowman has been nominated by the Trump Administration to serve as the Federal Reserve’s Vice Chair of Supervision and is currently awaiting confirmation.) Members of the 2023 Class proudly accept the BLOK Class of the Year — BankPAC Challenge’s trophy! Congratulations to the 2024 BLOK class! These bank leaders completed the four-session BLOK program. 16
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