From January - May 2023, 19 Virginia bankers participated in the Executive Leadership Institute (ELI). ELI is a 5-month leadership development program designed to actively enhance the leadership, organizational and performance skills of the highly motivated, high-potential and successful banker who is currently in or progressing toward a senior level position. For over a decade, VBA’s Executive Leadership Institute has been known for its intense level of connection, learning and peer relationships that are fostered by its format and deep content.

During the program, participants took part in a variety of learning components including relevant pre-work, readings, podcasts and videos, hands-on experiential activities, small group activities and discussions, and simulations – all designed to ensure significant engagement throughout the program. 

Congratulations to the 2023 ELI Program Graduates

• Marc Batchelor, MainStreet Bank
• Will Bauder, The National Capital Bank of Washington
• Brian Broyles, First Community Bank
• Johnny Gardner, Carter Bank & Trust
• Josh Grimes, FVCbank
• Shannon Hairfield, Community Bankers’ Bank
• Josh Holder, SouthState Bank
• Greg Hoover, First Bank, Virginia
• Matt Hubbard, American National Bank & Trust Co.
• Adam Jante, First Community Bank
• Erin Johnston, Chesapeake Bank
• Kelly Keene, Village Bank
• Alan Miller, American National Bank & Trust Co.
• Shari Popp, Old Point National Bank
• Dale Schuurman, Blue Ridge Bank
• Amanda Sumiel, Chesapeake Bank
• Sherry Thacker, Old Point National Bank
• Alex Vari, MainStreet Bank
• Trent Wall, American National Bank & Trust Co.

Program Sessions & Faculty

Sessions in this year’s program included:

• Authentic Leadership & Personal Growth
• Collaboration, Strategy & Change
• Effective Communications for Important Outcomes
• Leading Teams, Causing Results Through Others
• Taking the Lead

ELI is led by Karen Conrad, president and owner of Karen Conrad and Associates, LLC, and Melissa Laughon, owner of Catch Your Limit.