It is great to see our banks “INVESTING” in their employees by allowing them to attend the CBA/BAI Graduate School of Retail Bank Management (GSRBM). This is our 58^th year hosting this school, and with the exception of 2009, this may be the most challenging year for bankers. Our students will learn about financial statements, earnings management, credit management underwriting, delivery channels and the CRO/CFO functions – just to name a few.

Another benefit of attending, is learning how other banks tackle the various problems all banks face. By interacting with over 200 other students, I am sure fresh approaches will be found.

I am personally looking forward to hearing the instructors share their opinions on the state of our economy and the attitude of bank customers. With apps and online communication becoming the norm, what is the future of the traditional branch?

And while the students will be missing their families and colleagues back home, I am sure they are looking forward to reliving their college years of studying, dorm life and of course, dorm food!! I imagine one or two will venture off to Sonic or Chick-fil-A…and maybe a quick walk about.