Money managers can
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Robert M. Perry Schools of Banking backed by Michigan Bankers Association

Since its inception 30 years ago, the Robert M. Perry Schools of Banking has been giving generations of bankers across Michigan the tools they need to excel.

As a loan officer at Isabella Bank and Trust’s Shepherd office, Joyce Gluch jumped at the chance to develop her leadership and management skills in order to make the seamless transition to branch manager.

“I’ve learned so many things. It has given me the knowledge to manage my branch effectively and solve problems. The biggest thing I learned was how to analyze income tax returns,” Gluch said.

This summer will mark Gluch’s third year in the program, and she is looking forward to participating in the bank management simulation, in which teams compete to make the most profitable operating, lending, and pricing decisions.

“The sessions are really intense,” said James Damitio, accounting professor and coordinator of the Robert M. Perry Schools of Banking.

“Students go all day and at night. In exit interviews, students overwhelmingly say great things about the program.”

Sponsored by the Michigan Bankers Association for more than 20 years, the school’s curriculum is taught by experienced bankers, CMU faculty members, and other highly qualified industry experts.

“It’s been a benefit to our bankers to attend the Perry Schools of Banking,” said Jim Kurt, vice president of education, Michigan Bankers Association. “They walk away with great information they can apply to their work in banking. We consider it the premiere banking school in the country.”

This year, David Hickman, chairman and chief executive officer of United Bank and Trust of Tecumseh, was honored as the Michigan 2005 Banker of the Year. The distinction was awarded by the Robert M. Perry Schools of Banking board of trustees and presented at CMU.

“I’ve met new people, made many friends, and have gotten a lot of networking done,” Gluch said. “I feel like the program has helped me go back to work with fresh ideas that have improved the bank and employee relationships.”