2026 Connection Labs + Elective Topics
Connection Labs anchor each morning of the Community Bankers Summit and are intentionally aligned with the themes emerging from GSBC peer group project submissions for 2026. These facilitated, half-day sessions bring participants together for peer-driven discussion around the real leadership, succession, customer, and strategy challenges community banks are actively working through today. Designed to be interactive and practical, each Lab blends expert guidance with real-world perspective and creates a shared foundation for learning and conversation across the Summit.
Connection Lab 1: Succession Beyond the C-Suite: Building Enterprise Continuity (July 27, 8:30-11:30 a.m.)
Connection Lab 2: The $70 Trillion Moment: Generational Customer Transfer & Deposit Stability Strategy (July 28, 8:00-11:30 a.m.)
Connection Lab 3: Digital Without Losing Your Soul: Redefining Community Bank Identity (July 28, 8:00-11:30 a.m.)
Electives are offered in the afternoons at Wolf Law alongside current GSBC students. Summit participants may choose two electives, based on availability; registrants will have the opportunity to rank their preferences prior to the session.
A Strategic Approach to Loan Workouts with Ellen Sharp
Becoming a Change Agent for the Customer Experience with Natalie Bartholomew
High Performance Banking with Steven Gonzalo
International Economics, Energy & the Ag Industry with Tim Ohlde
Maximizing Performance Through People & Teams with Dave Nowling
Stay Ahead of the Game: How Compliance Fuels Growth & Innovation with Tori Haggerty
The Bank Investment Portfolio: the Key to Balance Sheet Success with Chris Nelson