(L-R) KBA President & CEO, Doug Wareham; Farmers Bank & Trust Market President in Overland Park, Jacinda Zerr; Federal Reserve Governor, Michelle Bowman; Chairman & CEO of Farmers Bank & Trust, W.R. Robbins; and Robbins Banking Institute Advisory Council Chair, Dale Winklepleck
On Thursday, Feb. 28, the Fort Hays State University Robbins Banking Institute proudly hosted its Lecture Series at the Memorial Union on campus. We were honored to welcome Kansas native and former community banker, Federal Reserve Governor Michelle (Miki) Bowman, as our distinguished guest speaker. Governor Bowman shared her knowledge of the banking industry, offering attendees a unique opportunity to learn from her expertise and experience. The event was attended by numerous Kansas bankers, community leaders, FHSU alumni, faculty, staff and students. (Bowman has been nominated by the Trump Administration to serve as the Federal Reserve’s Vice Chair of Supervision and is currently awaiting confirmation.)
Dr. Jill Arensdorf, Fort Hays State University (FHSU) Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, opened the event with a warm and engaging welcome, setting the tone for an insightful and inspiring morning. She took the opportunity to share exciting updates on recent developments within the university, highlighting key initiatives, academic advancements and upcoming programs that continue to shape the institution’s commitment to excellence.
Fort Hays State University alumnus and namesake of the Robbins Banking Institute, W.R. Robbins, Chairman and CEO of Farmers Bank & Trust, took the podium to share the inspiring vision behind the establishment of the institute. He reflected on his journey from his time at FHSU to his successful career as a Kansas banker, detailing the experiences and challenges that shaped his path in the financial industry. Robbins spoke passionately about the critical role community banks play in local economies and how his own career underscored the importance of preparing future generations for leadership in banking.
Dale Winklepleck, Chair of the Robbins Banking Institute Advisory Council, took the stage to highlight the remarkable growth and progress of the institute since its inception. He reflected on the strides made in expanding educational opportunities, strengthening industry partnerships and preparing students for successful careers in banking. Winklepleck expressed his deep appreciation for FHSU and the Kansas Bankers Association, recognizing their unwavering dedication, hard work and collaborative efforts in advancing this vital initiative.
The morning concluded with an engaging and insightful fireside chat featuring FHSU’s Dr. Jill Arensdorf, Governor Bowman and KBA’s Doug Wareham. During the conversation, Governor Bowman shared valuable insights into her professional journey, detailing the experiences, challenges and pivotal moments that led her to her current role at the Federal Reserve. She spoke about her roots in Kansas, her early career in community banking, and the lessons she has learned along the way.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Robbins Banking Institute Lecture Series! We appreciate your support and engagement.
For questions or more information, please contact Rayanna Breshears at rbreshears@ksbankers.com.
