Sunday, September 21

5-7 p.m.
Reception at the Hilton Des Moines Downtown
Sponsored by UMB Bank

All are invited to join us for an evening of networking, food and music as we kick off this year’s convention with a reception at the Des Moines Hilton Downtown. A casual evening of fun and catching up with friends awaits with musical entertainment provided Andrew Hoyt.

Monday, September 22

7:30 a.m.
Legislative Symposium & Breakfast

How the Global Economy Will Impact Your Business
Dr. Robert Genetski
Dr. Genetski is a widely recognized expert on developments throughout the world. His latest book, Rich Nation Poor Nation, has received rave reviews as “an instant classic that should be on the desk of everyone with an interest in human prosperity.” His global presentation provides fascinating insights to developments in countries throughout the world and how they will impact your business. As one of the nation’s leading economists, he is a teacher, columnist, and author of five books on classical economic principles.

9 a.m.
Exhibit Hall Opens

10 a.m.
Opening General Session

IBA Convention Welcome
Adam Gregg, President & CEO, Iowa Bankers Association
Start convention with this welcome message and overview of the association’s priorities and accomplishments. We will also award legislator of the year and honor our top BUILD contributors.

IBA Chair Address
IBA Chairman, Jim Plagge, President & CEO, Bank Iowa
Jim Plagge shares his insights and reflections as this year’s IBA chairman.

ABA Address
ABA President & CEO, Rob Nichols

FHLB Update
Wil Osborn, Jeff Plagge, FHLB of Des Moines
FHLB chief business officer and board member Jeff Plagge share FHLB updates and federal administration impacts.

11 a.m.
General Session

U.S. and the World – Embracing the Challenges of 2025 with Confidence
Frank Lavin
Frank Lavin, a seasoned expert in international trade, finance, and policy, brings unparalleled insight into the key political and economic forces shaping 2025. With experience as White House political director, U.S. ambassador, and global banking strategist, he offers a sharp yet engaging analysis of the risks and opportunities that lie ahead. Lavin is the author of Inside the Reagan White House – A Front Row Seat to Presidential Leadership with Lessons for Today. Using the lessons from the past, Lavin shares engaging stories leading to key takeaways for today.  He’ll share insights on how geopolitical events and trade policies impact banking and economic stability and actionable strategies for navigating uncertainty and capitalizing on emerging opportunities.

Noon
Celebration of Banking Lunch
50-Year Bankers, James A. Leach Leadership Award, and current IBA Leader Recognition
Sponsored by SHAZAM

Join us for this all-convention lunch, where we have a Celebration of Banking. Everyone is invited to this year’s lunch where we will recognize what makes Iowa banking outstanding – bankers. This year’s lunch will showcase the annual James A. Leach Leadership award recipient and the 50-year bankers who have provided the backbone for a vibrant industry. We will also celebrate our leaders who are Iowa’s banking future. Following lunch, dessert is available in the exhibit hall.

1:30 p.m.
Breakout Sessions

Banking Beyond 2026: Will Your IT Survive the Next Decade’s Tech Tsunami?
John Moeller, CyberAssurance
The future is rushing toward us—think blockchain wallets, quantum networks, and hyper-connected consumers. This presentation peers into 2026 and beyond, revealing the IT and cybersecurity trends that will redefine banking. We will unpack what is coming, how to adapt, and why starting now is non-negotiable. Perfect for forward-thinkers ready to turn uncertainty into opportunity.

The High ROI that Comes with Negotiating a Better Deal with your Core Provider
Charlie Kelly, Remedy Consulting
Banks are constantly seeking ways to maximize revenue and minimize risk. While they focus on external investments, they may be overlooking significant cost-saving opportunities with their core technology providers. Long-term contracts can hide hidden costs and limit future strategic options. By approaching core contract negotiations with a financial lens, banks can improve ROI and reduce risk. This session will explore the importance of peer pricing, ROI calculations for core renewals, potential pitfalls of poor contracts, and the value of strong Service Level Agreements.

Liquidity, Volatility and Opportunity For Those Who Are Prepared
Sean Collins, Performance Trust
Cash is no longer a non-accrual asset. Rates have changed dramatically; uncertainty and volatility are exceedingly high. This session will update opportunities in the current environment given the unprecedented rate changes. We will discuss how to consider strategies for the current environment including the impact on mergers & acquisitions and capital.

Fraud Prevention and Detection Tips
Julie Gliha & Melanie Knoll, Iowa Bankers Association
This session will provide an overview of the most common fraud trends, including the usage of Deepfake Media for impersonation scams.  Attend to learn more about red flags that indicate possible fraud, federal and state law considerations, consumer and employee training opportunities, and resources to use when fraud is detected.

2:30 p.m.
Refreshment Break in the Exhibit Hall
Cookies & popcorn sponsored by Kirk Gross Company

3:15 p.m.
Breakout Sessions Repeat

4:15 p.m.
Chairman’s Reception in the Exhibit Hall

Join your fellow bankers at a reception to honor IBA Chairman Jim Plagge. Located in the Exhibit Hall, it’s a great chance to visit with vendors in a casual setting.

5:30 p.m.
Silent Auction Final Bids

Tuesday, September 23

7:45 a.m.
Ag Breakfast
Sponsored by Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines

Agriculture – What’s Happening Today
Tyne Morgan, U.S. Farm Report
As the host of the U.S. Farm Report, Tyne Morgan has her pulse on the agricultural industry. Tyne works each week to bring viewers the latest agricultural and market-related news, by diving into stories she believes rural Americans want to hear most. From volatile markets to unpredictable weather, it’s the agricultural community that proves no matter the obstacle, resilience reigns. Morgan shares the unique challenges farmers face this year, and the opportunities that could lie ahead. One hurdle she shares is the current perception of American agriculture as fewer and fewer Americans know or appreciate where and how their food is raised. Morgan provides a glimpse of what is happening in agriculture today and what needs to happen to shine a positive light on the industry. 

9:30 a.m. Exhibit Hall Opens

10:30 a.m.
General Session

IBA Chair Address
IBA Chairman, Abe Tubbs, Ohnward Bancshares, Maquoketa
New IBA Chairman Abe Tubbs shares his goals for the upcoming year.

11 a.m.
Closing session
Sponsored by SHAZAM

What’s Your Super Bowl? The Keys to Achieving a Lifelong Dream
Bryan Neale, NFL Referee, Sales Coach
Bryan Neale started refereeing Pee Wee football when he was in college. He wasn’t the fastest or most talented, but he knew if he put his mind to a goal, he was willing to put in the work to make it happen. At the age of 19, he put his dream in writing—to officiate the Super Bowl by the time he was 51 years old. With twists, turns and tens of thousands of miles traveled over nearly three decades working in football, Bryan learned the strategies needed to achieve at the highest level. Whether your goal is to hit a sales quota at work, spend more time with your kids or learn to fly a plane, Bryan’s principles of achievement through intentional goal setting will help you get there. Bryan will also share some of his behind-the-scenes experiences from working Super Bowl LVI (at the age of 52).

Noon
Adjourn