iowa school of banking 2022 class group photo

Three TS Bank employees complete first year of Iowa School of Banking

August 11, 2022 | TS Bank

The Iowa Bankers Association held its Iowa School of Banking June 12-17, 2022, at the Cedar Rapids Marriott. This year 47 students completed the second year of the program, and another 66 students went through the first year of the program and will complete the course in 2023. This was the largest class participation to date.

The purpose of the Iowa School of Banking is to prepare first-level, exempt and mid-level managers to serve effectively and profitably, the needs and desires of the American public. This includes developing a thorough understanding of banking, critical banking functions, interrelationships, determinants of profitability and creating an awareness of the changing banking environment and the role of the commercial bank in the financial services industry. Additionally, this program helps financial leaders further develop analytical skills and management techniques.

This year, three employees from TS Bank attended the first year program and shared their thoughts on their overall experience below. Each have an individual project papers to submit this fall, followed by a bank simulation project next year.

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Lacey Sampson, VP of Personal Banking

Why did you decide to go through the program?
It has been on my bucket list for a few years, and I wanted to expand my banking knowledge.

What has the experience been like?
It was an amazing experience; I learned so much. Many of the courses taught were outside of my current line of sight, but things that were helpful as continue to grow professionally. I always enjoy being able to network with many bankers from around the state.

What’s been your favorite takeaway or memory?
Having a greater understanding of how a bank works was my key takeaway. My favorite memory was Marie and I wandering on the way home, driving 40 miles in the wrong direction.

What would you tell other bankers about this program?
If you have the opportunity to attend the school, do it! It isn’t easy, but it is so worth it! It is an opportunity to learn from great instructors, and network with other bankers from across the state. I am thankful to the bank investing in my growth and for the ability to have the time away to learn. Austin, Marie and I were blessed to be a part of the biggest class in school history which is pretty cool.

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Marie Miller, VP of Consumer and Real Estate Credit

Why did you decide to go through the program?
I went through the program to obtain a better understanding of the different parts of the bank that I normally don’t have exposure to. I wanted to understand why we invest money the way we do and what our risk strategy is. 

What has the experience been like?
The first year week-long course is fairly grueling and a lot of information to learn. It was rewarding to learn and get a glimpse of what a bank CEO thinks about every day.

What’s been your favorite takeaway or memory?
I was great to network with lots of community banking peers and discuss our bank strategies similarities and differences. 

What would you tell other bankers about this program?
I would highly recommend this class for any person that wants a better understanding of what makes a community bank successful. You gain a well-rounded knowledge of the bank as a whole, rather than just your individual job. I am really looking forward to the bank simulation that we will do at next year’s week long class. 

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Austin Diehm, VP of Business Banking

Why did you decide to go through the program?
I desired more knowledge in areas related to the management of the bank, specifically securities investments and ALCO.  The program fits well with those aspiring to have a lifelong career in banking.

What has the experience been like?
It was a great experience, both from an aspect of deepening my knowledge in banking, as well as connections made with other leaders in banking throughout the state.

What’s been your favorite takeaway or memory?
My favorite part was diving into the asset/liability management and discussing the Feds monetary policy with several bankers attending the school.

What would you tell other bankers about this program?
I would tell other bankers, that anyone interested in taking the next step in their banking career, or just wanting to understand more about how the bank operates as a whole, that this is a great opportunity that they should consider. The instructors are almost all lifelong bankers that have a wealth of knowledge to share, and you will have a great time connecting with other bankers across the state.

To learn more about the IBA’s Iowa School of Banking visit their website here or contact Darcy Burnett at dburnett@iowabankers.com.


At TS Bank, we IGNITE PROSPERITY® by helping our clients do more with their money. Whether it’s saving a little extra cash each month or accomplishing a long-term strategy, our goal is to help you transform your financial life. Call and schedule an appointment today, one of our team members would love to help you do more with your money at TS Bank. TS Bank has eight locations in central and southwest Iowa. For more information visit tsbank.com or call 844-487-3030. #igniteprosperity