Independent Community Bankers of South Dakota

06/17/2026

CRA compliance is a key part of a strong risk management strategy.

Carmen Ramirez, Director at ICBA CRA Solutions, is leading a session at the Black Hills Retreat focused on managing CRA compliance through a strategic and practical lens:

✔️ CRA regulatory foundations and performance expectations
✔️ Assessment areas and public file requirements
✔️ Integrating CRA into enterprise risk management
✔️ Practical tools like CRA plans, KPIs, and self-assessments
✔️ The critical role of board and executive leadership in CRA oversight and accountability

Black Hills Retreat
July 23-25, 2026
Register here - https://icbsd.com/black-hills-retreat/

06/15/2026

Technology and AI are rapidly changing the way you approach lending and credit decisions.

April Brissette, Chief Risk Officer at BHG Financial, will present “Utilizing Technology and Embracing AI in Credit Decisioning” at our upcoming retreat!

You'll learn how financial institutions can leverage technology throughout the lending process to improve efficiency, accuracy, and customer experience.

With more than 18 years of leadership experience in risk management and operations, April brings valuable real-world insight into how innovation is shaping the future of banking.

Register today and join us for this timely and forward-looking discussion!

https://icbsd.com/black-hills-retreat/

06/12/2026

Trust matters.

As policymakers consider proposals related to stablecoins, Federal Reserve master accounts, and OCC national trust charters, it is critical that they fully evaluate the potential risks these policies could pose to consumers, local communities, and our financial system.

Community banks have long been the trusted financial partners for South Dakota families, farmers, small businesses, and local economies. Before moving forward with significant changes that could reshape the financial landscape, policymakers should pause and holistically assess the combined impact of these proposals.

We encourage community bankers, customers, and community leaders to stay informed and engaged as these discussions continue. The decisions made today could have lasting consequences for the safety, stability, and trust that local communities depend on.

Read more from ICBA: 👇

As policymakers debate several actions on digital assets policy with significant implications for the future of the U.S. financial system, Washington is arriving at an inflection point. The question facing Congress, the administration, and financial services regulators is whether the nation should c...

06/11/2026

Culture and service shape every interaction and often, it’s the small moments that leave the biggest impact.

At the Black Hills Retreat Julie Peterson Klein, Chief Culture Officer at Bell Bank will share how intentional acts of kindness, compassion, and service can strengthen workplace culture, deepen customer relationships, and create stronger communities.

July 23-25, 2026
State Game Lodge

Learn more and register - https://icbsd.com/black-hills-retreat/

06/09/2026

Change is constant in today’s banking environment. How can community banks turn change into opportunity?

Join us for “The Change Advantage” featuring Matt Heemstra, Managing Partner at Cain Ellsworth & Company, LLP at our upcoming retreat.

Matt will share practical strategies for leading through change, overcoming resistance, and addressing the growing challenge of change fatigue within organizations.

July 23-25, 2026
State Game Lodge
Custer State Park

Register and learn more here: https://icbsd.com/black-hills-retreat/

06/04/2026

Congratulations to South Dakota's own Nick Moffenbier of Reliabank and Michael Behl of Farmers & Merchants State Bank on being named to ICBA's 40 Under 40 list!

This recognition highlights emerging leaders who are making a lasting impact in community banking.

Nick was recognized for his commitment to serving agricultural customers through his expertise in government ag programs and his passion for helping the next generation of farmers succeed.

Michael was honored for his dedication to lifelong learning, leadership, and mentoring the next generation of community bankers.

Congratulations Nick and Michael on this well-deserved honor!

06/03/2026

The tentative schedule for our 2026 Black Hills Retreat is now available!

Take a look at the lineup of speakers, educational sessions, and family-friendly activities we have planned, including an ice cream tasting with Leone’s Ice Cream and a buffalo safari, just to name a few.

If you haven't registered, now is the time! We hope to see you there!

Learn more and register: https://icbsd.com/black-hills-retreat/

05/25/2026

Today, we remember and give thanks.

05/21/2026

Look at your local board.
Attend a school fundraiser.
Volunteer at a community event.

You’ll likely see a community banker there.

Independent community banks don’t just operate in South Dakota communities. They invest in them.

That's the community bank difference!

05/15/2026

If you're headed to the Black Hills Retreat July 23-25, don't forget to make your room reservation! A variety of rooms and cabins have been set aside at a discounted rate for your convenience.

The block will be released June 22nd, so don't wait!

Call 888-875-0001 and reference the ICBSD block or make your reservation online:

https://be.synxis.com/?adult=1&arrive=2026-07-23&chain=7774&child=0¤cy=USD&depart=2026-07-24&group=ICB2026&hotel=46528&level=hotel&locale=en-US&productcurrency=USD&rooms=1