Hoosier Banker 17 Laurie A. Rees Vice President - Education & Training Indiana Bankers Association lrees@indianabankers.org @Laurie1107 After a blockbuster start in 2017, the Indiana Bankers Association continued the dream with its successful hosting of the 2018 Banking on Women Conference. The event, held Nov. 13-14 at the Indianapolis Marriott North, surpassed prior-year attendance, with some 360 women coming together for professional development, networking and inspiration. Attendees gathered mid-day on Tuesday, Nov. 13, for registration, then delved into an afternoon packed with powerhouse presentations. Karen F. Gregerson, chair of the conference planning committee and president/CEO of The Farmers Bank, Frankfort, joined with Amber R. Van Til, IBA president and CEO, in welcoming guests and offering opening remarks on the uplifting spirit of the Banking on Women Conference. Afternoon sessions began with a thought-provoking presentation by Juli Lynch, Ph.D., a perennial favorite from the 2017 conference and the IBA Leadership Development Program. In “The Tribe Has Spoken,” Juli deftly demonstrated how personality influences the need to survive, and she shared insights into how to use innate traits for personal and professional growth. Ensuing presentations covered leadership skills, business strategies, organizational culture and more, all while engaging the audience in participatory activity. Additionally, the 2018 Banking on Women Conference reprised the prior year’s touch of having decorated boxes with index cards, so attendees could write notes of appreciation for others in attendance. Periodically the notes were read aloud, adding a heartfelt quality to the conference. Tuesday rounded out with a lively reception featuring interactive food and beverage stations. Throughout the reception, attendees had the chance to visit with service providers in the IBA exhibit area, and also to bid on a treasure trove of items at a silent auction benefiting Girls on the Run, a nonprofit organization that provides learning opportunities for girls ages 8 to 13. After the reception, fellowship extended into the evening, as attendees sampled a variety of dine-arounds at local restaurants. Wednesday, Nov. 14, began bright and early with rise-andshine yoga. A continental breakfast in the exhibit area followed, after which commenced a full day of learning, networking, engaging, connecting and empowering. Presentations ranged from igniting brilliance to maximizing energy to reducing organizational defensiveness. Justine Fedek of BMO Financial Group presented the luncheon keynote, “How Does Fear Impact Your Ability to Succeed: Removing Invisible Barriers.” Justine led the audience through a problem-solving journey of facing fears, removing obstacles and choosing happiness. Wednesday’s luncheon also provided a new element to the conference: the inaugural IBA Woman of the Year Award. A total of 14 women were nominated by their peers for this award, designed to celebrate women in banking for their professional excellence, community engagement, and the ability to support other women to reach their full potential. The winner of the 2018 IBA Woman of the Year Award is Jessica Carroll, CEO of The New Washington State Bank, Charlestown. Congratulations to Jessica, and to all of the outstanding nominees who represent the finest in the Indiana banking community. 2018 IBA Banking on Women Conference The dream continues... Continued on next page.
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