💼💰 Banker Day 2026 – #JacksonCEO 💰💼

Today was a major milestone for our young professionals during Banker Day! Each student had the opportunity to sit across from local bankers and confidently pitch their businesses in hopes of securing funding. From financial projections to vision casting, they stepped into the room prepared, polished, and ready to present like true entrepreneurs.

A very special thank you to our Board Chair, Brian Croft, for stepping in to serve as one of our bankers today. Your leadership and willingness to pour into our students does not go unnoticed.

We are also incredibly grateful to Board Member Katie Hickam for coordinating today’s experience and for providing delicious treats for our guest bankers. Your attention to detail and hospitality helped make the day both professional and welcoming.

And to our local bankers — thank you for sacrificing your time to invest in the next generation of business leaders. Your insight, questions, and encouragement mean more than you know. Today would not have been possible without you.

Travis Lipe, first southern
Brian Croft, CEO Board Chair
Katie Hickam, CEO Board Member
Greg Stevens, SIU Credit Union
Amber Pentecost, Banterra
Kristen Dietz, SIU Credit Union
Emma Hanks, CEO Alumni
Jennifer Mccuan, Banterra Bank
Benjamin Craft, Banterra Bank
Amber Pentecost, Banterra Bank
Melissa Kinnard, SIU Credit Union
Matt Simmons, Legence Bank
Patricia Lope, First Southern

We are proud of our students and thankful for a community that believes in them!

#JacksonCEO #Entrepreneurship #FutureLeaders