CBA Recognizes 2026 Executive Banking School Graduates, Announces Tem Wooldridge Award Recipient

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Consumer Bankers Association (CBA) yesterday concluded its 75th annual Executive Banking School (EBS), the premier advanced educational program for future leaders in retail banking. Theresa Cady from U.S. Bank was also named the 2026 Tem Wooldridge Award recipient. 

CBA President and CEO Lindsey Johnson released the following statement recognizing 127 bankers who graduated:

"Congratulations to the CBA Executive Banking School Class of 2026, this year's honors graduates, and Tem Wooldridge Award recipient Theresa Cady from U.S. Bank.

"Graduating from EBS is a significant achievement, reflecting three years of hard work, dedication, and a deep commitment to the future of retail banking. This year's graduates leave Greenville with more than a credential - they join a distinguished network of leaders who have helped shape our industry for generations and are prepared to lead it into the future.

"As we celebrate the 75th year of CBA's Executive Banking School, we are especially proud to recognize this year's graduating class and the commitment they have made to becoming stronger leaders. Their experience, perspective, and leadership will help shape the future of America's leading retail banks and the communities they serve."

2026 Tem Wooldridge Award Recipient

During Tuesday's graduation ceremony, Theresa Cady from U.S. Bank was named the 2026 Tem Wooldridge Award recipient. 

Established in 2002 to honor long-time faculty member, Tem Leslie Wooldridge, this award recognizes the top EBS student each year who demonstrates outstanding academic performance, high integrity, and a strong work ethic. In addition to academic merit, Tem Wooldridge Award recipients possess the necessary character and leadership skills to bring out the best in their teammates. Award recipients are selected by EBS faculty, with input from class peers.

EBS Class of 2026 Honors Graduates

The following EBS students were recognized as Honors Graduates for the class of 2026:

• Erin Bruce, JPMorganChase
• Theresa Cady, U.S. Bank
• Alex Duncan, Frost
• Tracy Haunn, JPMorganChase
• Neal Herring, Citizens
• Katie Higaki, JPMorganChase
• Jonathan Kops, Truist
• Kristin Motlerus, Citizens
• James Newton, Capital One
• Larkin O'Herron, USAA
• David Ridgway, U.S. Bank
• Jon Sipes, PNC
• Glenn Stanzione, PNC

To see a full list of all EBS 2026 graduates, click HERE.

About EBS

CBA's Executive Banking School provides future bank leaders with the comprehensive, holistic perspective of retail banking required to lead effectively amidst industry shifts. EBS is centered around an engaging curriculum taught by expert industry executives. This year's program featured nearly 400 bankers from 37 various institutions. Alumni from CBA's Executive Banking School have gone on to become leaders within the industry, including:

• Wayne Akins (1992) - Chief Community Banking Officer, Synovus
• Archie Brown (1996) - President and CEO, First Financial
• Previous CBA Board Chair and Current Board Member Quincy Miller (2004) - President and Vice Chairman, Eastern Bank
• Previous CBA Board Chair Andy Harmening (2006) - President and CEO, Associated Bank
• Seth Waller (2012) - Executive Vice President and Chief Risk Officer, EverBank
• Ali Maher (2012) - Executive Vice President and Head of Consumer Deposit Products and Payments, Regions
• Mary Kate Loftus (2013) - President, Impressia Bank
• Daniel Hobbs (2015) -Chief Financial Officer, Simmons Bank
• Lori Von Heyking (2018) - Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, Woodforest
• Among many others!

Additional Resources

• To read a recent Banking Dive piece on how EBS has become the premier advanced education program for future industry leaders, click HERE.
• To learn more about the 2026 EBS Curriculum, click HERE.
• To learn more about notable speakers and moments from the 75^th session of EBS, click HERE.