River Falls, WI — 08/11/2025 — First National Bank of River Falls is proud to announce that two of its leaders, Kim Nesbitt, Vice President Bank Operations and Kaydi Sobottka, Vice President-Human Resource Officer, have successfully graduated from the Graduate School of Banking (GSB) at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, completing an intensive 25-month program designed to prepare the next generation of banking executives.

Since 1945, the GSB program has been recognized as the nation’s leading and most progressive banking school, with a curriculum combining advanced management education, real-world bank simulations, and executive leadership training. Graduates also earn the prestigious Certificate of Executive Leadership from the Center for Professional & Executive Development from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. 

Kim reflected on her achievement, saying:
"I am grateful to First National Bank of River Falls and our leadership team for their investment in my professional development. Completing the Graduate School of Banking program has been both a challenging and rewarding experience—one that has provided me with in-depth industry knowledge, broadened my perspective on the ever-evolving financial landscape, and strengthened my leadership capabilities. Along the way, I had the privilege of learning from exceptional instructors and collaborating with peers from across the country, gaining insights that I will carry throughout my career. Equipped with new tools, strategies, and perspectives, I am eager to apply these lessons to enhance my work, support the growth and development of our employees, and continue innovating services that will deliver even greater value to our customers."

Kaydi shared a similar sentiment about the impact of the experience:

"Reflecting on my 25-month journey completing the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin–Madison this morning, I’m proud of the growth it’s brought, both personally and professionally. I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity provided by my employer, First National Bank of River Falls. Thank you to my fellow leaders for their support as I dug deep into our bank through frequent information requests. And to my classmates—some of the industry’s brightest—thank you for the laughs, thoughtful discussions, and memories. Finally, to my family: thanks for picking up roles while I wrote papers, embracing my school bag everywhere we went, and keeping me motivated."

Over the course of the program, Kim and Kaydi completed three rigorous two-week resident sessions in Madison, intersession projects customized to First National Bank of River Falls, and a capstone FiSim bank management simulation. The program equipped them with advanced skills in financial management, strategic leadership, market analysis, risk management, and customer retention—knowledge they are already bringing back to benefit the bank and its customers.

"Kim and Kaydi’s accomplishments are a testament to their dedication and leadership," said Jeff Johnson, Chairman/President & CEO. "Their hard work, commitment to professional growth, and passion for serving our customers will continue to strengthen First National Bank of River Falls for years to come."

About the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin–Madison
The Graduate School of Banking at UW–Madison has been the school of choice for more than 23,000 bankers nationwide. Sponsored by the Central States Conference of Bankers Associations in partnership with UW–Madison, GSB provides an unparalleled educational experience, taught by leading industry experts, to help mid- and senior-level managers thrive in the rapidly changing banking environment.

About First National Bank of River Falls
First National Bank of River Falls is an independently owned and operated community bank in Western Wisconsin, founded in 1904 with two office locations in River Falls and Prescott. They are a member of the Independent Community Bankers Association and Wisconsin Bankers Association. First National Bank of River Falls strives to exceed customer expectations with integrity and commitment. Holding all employees to this high standard is why First National Bank of River Falls has made such an impact in its communities. Visit www.fnbrf.com to learn more.

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Media Contact:
Amy Weiss
Marketing Officer
First National Bank of River Falls
715-426-3136
aweiss@fnbrf.com