ABA Emerging Leader Awards

The ABA Emerging Leader Awards honor the next generation of bank leaders who demonstrate excellence, integrity and service to their bank, industry and community. Recognizing and investing in future leadership is essential to the strength of our industry, as today’s emerging leaders are tomorrow’s decision-makers.

These awards celebrate forward-thinking, adaptable and innovative bankers who motivate others and drive meaningful progress at their institutions.

Emerging leaders are defined by their initiative, growth mindset and commitment to their bank’s success. They actively expand their skills, strengthen their institutions and make a lasting impact in the industry and the communities they serve.

If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply! Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your achievements and receive industry recognition.

The entry period for the 2026 Awards has now passed.

Together, let’s celebrate the next generation of leaders who continue to drive positive change in our industry!

For more information, visit our FAQ page or email [email protected].

View the 2026 Emerging Leaders Contest Official Rules.

Introducing the 2025 ABA Emerging Leader Awards Winners

Allison Winters

SVP, Director of Marketing and Client Experience
Columbia Bank, Fair Lawn, New Jersey

Brenna Morlan

Vice President - CDFI/CRA Officer
First Southwest Bank, Durango, Colorado

Christina Choi

SVP & Banking Manager
Hanmi Bank, Los Angeles, California

Christopher J. Estrade

Vice President / Business Banking
Hancock Whitney Bank, Gulfport, Mississippi

Emily Cauzillo

VP and Director of Mercantile Community Partners
Mercantile Bank, Grand Rapids, Michigan

James Ramson

Senior Vice President, Treasury Management Payments Product Management Leader
First Horizon Bank, Memphis, Tennessee

Jessica Lovell

Senior Vice President, Director of Customer Experience
First National Bank Texas, Houston, Texas

Jodi M. Kruse

SVP, Learning & Development Experience Manager
WesBanco Bank, Inc., Morenci, Michigan

Jonathan Gilbode

Senior Vice President, Chief Digital & Product Officer
Thomaston Savings Bank, Thomaston, Connecticut

Lacy Samples

SVP/Compliance Officer/CRA Officer
NBT Financial Bank, Fort Worth, Texas

Sam Drennen

Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer
First American Bank & Trust, Athens, Georgia

Sarah E. Grooms

Chief Administrative Officer, Banking Strategies
Wintrust Financial Corporation, Chicago, Illinois

Prior Years

View 2024 winners

View 2023 winners