Rivers Edge Bank Employees Hone Leadership Skills through ICBSD Level Up Program
August 23, 2023
Three Rivers Edge Bank employees recently completed the Independent Community Bankers of South Dakota (ICBSD) Level Up leadership series. Carissa Anderson, Assistant Vice President/BSA Officer, Howard; Kerri Meyer, Universal Banking Officer, Parker; and Amalia Zick, Universal Banking Officer, Parker, honed their leadership skills through the program and are poised to contribute significantly to the bank’s, and more importantly, their communites' futures.
According to the ICBSD, the professional leadership and development program is designed to help shape bankers at independently-owned and operated banks by equipping them with the leadership and professional development they will need to serve as the future leaders in the industry. The Level Up program began in January 2023 and featured a series of six sessions across the state designed to help attendees reach their full leadership potential.
When asked how this program enhanced her career and leadership development, Meyer said, “It helped me understand how to better communicate with my colleagues and customers. It also forced me to get out of my box and do things that are uncomfortable. When you’re comfortable, you don’t grow.”
Anderson also felt the growth opportunity of being uncomfortable. “I was continually pushed out of my comfort zone each session – which included encountering different personalities, how to disagree with someone in a respectable manner, and understanding how to speak, present, and communicate effectively,” she added.
Zick also benefitted from her experience in the program. “I enjoyed the networking aspect of the program which allowed for people to build confidence and develop new-found relationships,” said Zick. She added, “So many of us listen to respond; when we practice active listening, it shows we care about what the other person is saying, which builds trust to strengthen those relationships.”
The group also learned of the importance of community banks to the South Dakota economy and how they serve as vital services in our rural communities. Independent and locally-owned banks can respond to community needs with more agility and efficiency and serve as an economic engine for local economies, in contrast to big banks and credit unions.
Jodi Eich, Chief Operating Officer and the ICBSD Chair Elect, offered the following reflection on their achievement, “We are extremely proud of Amalia, Carissa, and Kerri’s involvement in the ICBSD’s Level Up program! They were able to sharpen their leadership and professional skills while being pushed outside their comfort zone at times. They have a growth mindset that should have a great impact on the bank and in our communities in the years to come. The future is bright!”
A graduation ceremony was held in July at the annual ICBSD Black Hills Retreat where each of them was recognized for their completion of the program accompanied with a plaque. Family members and executive team members from the bank were also in attendance. Community members are asked to join Rivers Edge Bank in congratulating these three on their completion of the program!
Graduates of the Level Up Program proudly display their plaques
Attendees of the Level up program tested their teamwork and communication skills in a cook off at the Gross Opera House in Watertown South Dakota