Graduate School of Banking at LSU Celebrates a Successful 76th Session

The Graduate School of Banking at LSU proudly concluded its 76th annual resident session on May 29, 2026, bringing together bankers from across the Southeast, beyond our traditional footprint, and Mexico for two weeks of intensive education, leadership development, and networking opportunities.

This year’s session welcomed 518 students representing 23 states and Mexico, reaffirming GSBLSU’s position as one of the largest graduate banking schools in the nation. Through a combination of classroom instruction, case studies, leadership programming, networking events, and the Bank Management Simulation, students strengthened their skills while building relationships that will last throughout their careers.

By the conclusion of the 2026 session, GSBLSU’s alumni network grew to an impressive 17,343 graduates.

A Tradition of Excellence

The resident session officially began on May 18 as Freshmen and Juniors arrived on campus and Seniors launched into the Bank Management Simulation, GSBLSU’s capstone leadership experience. Over the course of two weeks, students participated in a rigorous curriculum led by industry experts and faculty members dedicated to preparing the next generation of banking leaders.

Students represented community banks, regional institutions, regulatory agencies, and financial organizations from across the United States and Mexico, creating a uniquely diverse learning environment rooted in collaboration and shared experiences.

Celebrating Student Leadership

Each year, students elect representatives to serve as class officers and members of the Student Advisory Council.

The Class of 2028 elected the following officers:

President: Shane Sweeting of Nashville, TN
Vice President: DeVonte Thomas of Starkville, MS

Advisory Council Members:

• Joe Kelly of Memphis, TN
• Joy Candelieri of Arlington, VA
• Cesar Arroyo of Mexico City, MX

Current class leadership also continued their service throughout the session.

Class of 2027 Officers

• President: James Ramson, First Horizon Bank (Memphis, TN)
• Vice President: Abel Rostran, First Horizon Bank (Miami, FL)
• Advisory Council: Katrina Huerth (VA), Lee Lister (GA), and Eduardo Garcia (MX)

Class of 2026 Officers

• President: Chris Estrade, Hancock Whitney Bank (Gulfport, MS)
• Vice President: Mike Thomas, Apex Bank (Knoxville, TN)
• Advisory Council: Deon Coombs (GA), Fernando Garcia Molinar (MX), and Anthony Perez (FL)

The commitment of these student leaders helps strengthen communication between students and administration while preserving the traditions that make the GSBLSU experience unique.

Scholarships and Student Recognition

GSBLSU continued its commitment to supporting outstanding bankers through several scholarship programs.

The 2026 George A. Schloegel Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Nik Powers, Vice President of Meade County Bank in Brandenburg, Kentucky. Established in honor of longtime GSBLSU instructor and banking leader George Schloegel, the scholarship recognizes bankers who exemplify service, leadership, integrity, and dedication to their communities.

In addition, Freshman scholarships were awarded to top performers from state banking schools and regulatory agencies throughout the GSBLSU footprint, helping promising banking professionals continue their educational journey.

Building Relationships Through Tradition

While classroom instruction remains the foundation of the resident session, many of the most memorable moments occur outside the classroom.

Throughout the two weeks, students participated in several signature GSBLSU traditions, including:

• Class-sponsored social events
• Leadership Speaker
• Class Officer Elections
• Student Advisory Council Meetings
• The Annual Crawfish Boil
• The State Bankers Reception in Tiger Stadium

The annual Crawfish Boil once again provided students from across the country and Mexico with an authentic Louisiana experience, while the State Bankers Reception brought together students, alumni, faculty, and industry leaders to celebrate the relationships that connect the GSBLSU family across state lines.

These events continue to foster the networking opportunities and lifelong friendships that define the resident session experience.

Honoring Academic Achievement

The resident session concluded with graduation ceremonies held at the LSU Union Theater.

We extend our congratulations to all members of the graduating Class of 2026 and especially recognize Valedictorian Brian Henderson of Hancock Whitney Bank in Gonzales, Louisiana for his outstanding academic achievement and dedication throughout the program.

As graduates crossed the stage, they joined the ranks of more than 17,000 GSBLSU alumni who continue to lead and serve the banking industry throughout the United States and beyond.

Looking Ahead

The success of the 2026 session would not have been possible without the dedication of our faculty, Board of Trustees, student leaders, alumni, sponsors, volunteers, and staff members who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make the resident session possible. Most importantly, thank you to our students for their commitment to professional excellence and lifelong learning. Your engagement, enthusiasm, and willingness to invest in your future continue to make GSBLSU one of the premier banking schools in the country. We are proud of all that was accomplished during the 2026 resident session and look forward to welcoming everyone back to Baton Rouge for the 2027 session as we continue our mission of developing leaders for the banking industry.