2025 Executive Leadership Institute Recap
January - May 2025
From January to May 2025, 12 bankers participated in the Executive Leadership Institute (ELI). ELI is a 5-month leadership development program designed to actively enhance the leadership, organizational and performance skills of the highly motivated, high-potential and successful banker who is currently in or progressing toward a senior-level position. For over a decade, ELI has been known for its intense level of connection, learning and peer relationships that are fostered by its format and deep content.
During the program, participants took part in a variety of learning components including relevant pre-work, readings, podcasts and videos, hands-on experiential activities, small group activities and discussions, and simulations – all designed to ensure significant engagement throughout the program.
Congratulations to the 2025 ELI Program Graduates
- Jake Allen, Benchmark Community Bank
- Mary Beth Baker, Powell Valley National Bank
- Steve Callis, Chesapeake Bank
- Courtney Glass, Bank of the James
- Abbey Gordon, Carter Bank
- Amanda Harris, Community Bankers’ Bank
- Thais Ribeiro, Chain Bridge Bank, N.A.
- Diana Rock, Chesapeake Bank
- Darren Tully, Capital Bank, N.A.
- Michelle Vass, First Community Bank
- Christina White, First Bank, Virginia
- Yasi Yamini, Bank of Clarke
Program Sessions & Faculty
Sessions in this year’s program included:
- Authentic Leadership & Personal Growth
- Collaboration, Strategy & Change
- Effective Communications for Important Outcomes
- Leading Teams, Causing Results Through Others
- Taking the Lead
ELI is led by Karen Conrad, president and owner of Karen Conrad and Associates, LLC, and Melissa Laughon, owner of Catch Your Limit.