Jonesboro, AR – Contributed – The annual Arkansas State University Leadership in Banking Series is set to return for the 2026-27 year. 

The six monthly sessions bring banking professionals from across the region together to discuss current topics, trends and skills relevant to the banking industry.

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Sessions will be led by faculty from the Neil Griffin College of Business and industry professionals. Each session is customized to meet the needs of the bankers. The gatherings include a presentation, lunch, best practices and group discussions. 

“The future of commercial banking depends on the strength of its leadership pipeline. By creating opportunities to learn from experienced professionals and exchange ideas, we can equip the next generation of leaders to guide the industry with vision and integrity,” said Dr. David Kern, McAdams-Frierson Chair of Bank Management and associate professor of finance. 

Information about each session is below: 

  • Kern will lead session one which will focus on contemporary issues in banking on Wednesday, Sept. 9. 
  • C. David White, chief lending officer at Farmers Bank and Trust in Magnolia, will run the session leadership in lending on Wednesday, Oct. 7. 
  • Dr. Hilary Schloemer, associate professor of management, will host the “Management Issues in Banking” session on Wednesday, Nov. 11. 
  • Dr. H. Steve Leslie, associate professor of business communication, will welcome participants to the “Business Communication for Banking” session on Wednesday, Dec. 9.
  • Dr. Katie Hill, associate professor and marketing director of the R.M. “Bob” Wood Sales Leadership Center, will host the sales and marketing for banking session on Wednesday, Jan. 13.
  • Dr. Cliff E. Jones will lead the final leadership in banking session: “Leadership Fundamentals for Banking” starting on Wednesday, Feb. 10.

All sessions will begin at 11 a.m. and end at 2 p.m. in room 201 of the Arkansas State University Delta Center for Economic Development. 

“Effective leadership in commercial banking isn’t just about keeping pace with change — it’s about anticipating it. The industry’s future depends on leaders who can think critically, act ethically, and adapt with confidence in an increasingly complex environment,” Kern added. 

Attendees will engage in exercises designed to deepen their understanding of the banking profession, gain real-world insights, and connect with peers. 

“The learning can be applied, and the participants have the opportunity to interact with experts in their field and connect with colleagues across our region and the state of Arkansas,” said Jones.

The Leadership in Banking Series has a proven record of participant success and community support, growing since its launch in 2023. 

“Participation in the program has increased each year, and we have expanded the topics covered. The leadership series has been very well received,” Jones said. 

The series was born out of collaboration between the Delta Center for Economic Development, Neil Griffin College of Business, and Jonesboro Unlimited. 

“Leadership matters, and leadership development is key for successful banking institutions. We are thankful for a great partnership that contributes to this effort,” Jones added. 

The deadline to register for the series is Friday, Aug. 14. To register online, click here.

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