Women in Banking

Women in Banking 2025

July 14th - 15th, 2025 | The Galt House | Louisville, KY

Join us at the Women in Banking Conference 2025 as we welcome Alyson Van Hooser—keynote speaker, leadership expert, and best-selling author—as our emcee and host!

With a bold mission to develop highly effective leaders who inspire change, Alyson brings unmatched energy, experience, and passion to the stage. Her journey—one of resilience, leadership, and relentless determination—embodies this year’s theme: Earn the Right to Be Heard! 

Get ready for a transformational experience where your voice matters, your leadership thrives, and your impact grows. The KBA Women in Banking 2025 returns July 14th.

Meet Alyson Hotel Booking

Agenda

Monday, July 14 – Archibald Room

1:00–1:30 PM

Registration

1:30–2:00 PM

Welcome & Opening Remarks – Alyson Van Hooser

2:00–3:00 PM

Megan Guiltinan, Legislative Director / Sr. Financial Services Policy Designee, Congressman Andy Barr

3:00–3:45 PM

Senator Amanda Mays Bledsoe Fireside Chat with KBA General Counsel, Timothy Schenk

3:45–4:00 PM

Refreshment Break – Passed mocktails/cocktails!

4:00–5:00 PM

Speed Networking

5:00–6:30 PM

Reception & Shopping

Tuesday, July 15 – Archibald Room

8:00–9:00 AM

Breakfast

9:00–10:00 AM

Lorrie Trogden - President/CEO, Arkansas Bankers Association with live Q&A!

10:00–10:15 AM

Refreshment Break

10:15–11:00 AM

“Earning the Right to Be Heard” – Alyson Van Hooser

11:00–12:00 PM

Seema Sheth, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis

12:00–1:00 PM

Lunch, Archibald Room

1:00–2:00 PM

Panel – Topic TBD
Alyson Van Hooser
Grace Pace, SVP, Quontic Bank
Lauren Thompson, Chief of Staff to President & CEO, Republic Bank

2:00–2:15 PM

Refreshment Break

2:15–3:00 PM

“Situational Awareness” – Shane Ensminger - The Face of Fraud Prevention, Central Bank

3:00–3:30 PM

“Lay Down the Law” – Alyson Van Hooser

Adjourn

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Women in Banking 2025 – Speakers

Meet the Speakers

Alyson Van Hooser | Leadership Coach

A keynote speaker, best-selling author, and expert on generational leadership, Alyson is on a sold out mission to develop strong leaders who drive positive change now and for the future. Her ownership mindset, shaped by personal challenges, fuels her passion to help others achieve bold goals. Through keynotes, training, and advising, she equips people to lead with confidence, clarity, and purpose, bringing unmatched energy, authenticity, and insight to every stage.

Amanda Mays Bledsoe | Kentucky State Senator

We’re honored to welcome Kentucky State Senator Amanda Mays Bledsoe to this year’s conference. Representing the 12th District which includes Boyle, Mercer, Woodford Counties, and part of Fayette County, Senator Bledsoe is a respected voice in Frankfort and a strong advocate for education, families, and economic development. As Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations and Revenue Committee, she brings thoughtful leadership and a deep understanding of the challenges facing Kentucky communities.

Grace Pace | SVP, Quontic Bank

We’re excited to feature Grace Pace, Senior Vice President at Quontic Bank, as part of this year’s program. With a strong track record in strategic growth and client relationship management, Grace brings practical insight into today’s banking landscape. Her leadership reflects a deep understanding of how banks can evolve while staying grounded in community values. As a senior executive, she continues to champion innovation, integrity, and the advancement of women in financial services.

Megan Guiltinan | Legislative Director

We’re also pleased to feature Megan Guiltinan, Legislative Director and Senior Financial Services Policy Designee for Congressman Andy Barr. With deep expertise in financial regulation and legislative strategy, Megan plays a key role in shaping national policy on banking, capital markets, and consumer finance. Her leadership on Capitol Hill reflects a strong commitment to practical, pro-growth solutions and thoughtful engagement with the financial sector.

Lauren Thompson | VP & Chief of Staff, Republic Bank

Say hello to Lauren Thompson, VP & Chief of Staff at Republic Bank. In her role, Lauren serves as a key advisor and strategic connector, helping drive high-level initiatives and align organizational priorities across the bank. With a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of executive leadership, Lauren brings a behind-the-scenes perspective on what it takes to lead at the highest levels of banking.

Lorrie Trogden | President, Arkansas Bankers Association

Joining us at WiB25 will also be Lorrie Trogden, President of the Arkansas Bankers Association, as a featured guest. A respected leader in the banking industry, Lorrie brings years of experience in advocacy, association management, and financial policy. As one of the few women leading a state banking association, she offers a powerful perspective on leadership, industry challenges, and the evolving role of women in banking.

Shane Ensminger | SVP, Central Bank

We’re proud to welcome Shane Ensminger, Senior Vice President and Director of the Financial Intelligence & Security Unit at Central Bank & Trust Co. With a robust background in financial and security intelligence, Shane leads efforts to protect the bank’s integrity through proactive risk management and operational security. Shane is the co-founder of the KBA Fraud Academy which is now in its third year running.