Mission: Excellence—Are You Ready to Lead?

Aug. 14, 2025

Every great leader has a moment when they’re called to step up—to lead with clarity, purpose, and excellence. For the next generation of community bank leaders, that moment is now.

This September, I’m thrilled to welcome you to Bloomington, Minn., home of the iconic Mall of America, for the 2025 LEAD FWD Summit—our most immersive leadership experience yet. This year’s theme, Mission: Excellence, invites emerging leaders to accept their mission: to grow, to lead, and to shape the future of community banking.

And yes, we’re leaning into the spy-thriller vibe—because leadership isn’t just a job, it’s a high-stakes mission. One that requires courage, strategy, and the right training.

Why Leadership Development Matters

That’s why ICBA affiliated state associations like the Independent Community Bankers of Colorado participate annually, and why ICBA leadership bankers like Derek Williams, president and CEO of Century Bank & Trust in Milledgeville, Ga., send their top talent to ICBA LEAD FWD.

According to LinkedIn’s 2025 Workplace Learning Report, 91% of learning and development professionals agree that continuous learning is more important than ever for career success. And yet, many organizations still struggle to prioritize leadership development—especially for rising talent.

For community banks, the stakes are even higher. With many seasoned leaders nearing retirement, the need to equip the next generation with the tools, mindset, and mentorship to lead is urgent.

That’s where LEAD FWD comes in.

What Awaits You at LEAD FWD 2025

This year’s Summit is designed to be more than a conference—it’s a mission for tomorrow’s leaders. Expect:

Immersive learning experiences that challenge and inspire.
Expert-led sessions on strategic thinking, innovation, and influence.
Peer networking with fellow mission-driven professionals.
And yes, a few surprises worthy of a spy movie (gadgets not included).

Whether you're a first-time attendee or a returning agent of change, you’ll leave Bloomington with renewed energy, actionable insights, and a deeper sense of purpose.

Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept It…

If you’re a community bank executive, I urge you: invest in your future leaders. Send them to LEAD FWD and provide them the opportunity to learn from industry veterans, connect with peers, and return ready to lead with excellence.

If you’re an emerging leader, this is your call to action. Your mission awaits.

Join us Sept. 8–9 in Bloomington. The future of community banking depends on leaders like you. Because in today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, community banks can’t afford to leave leadership to chance.