Breaking Barriers Symposium

About Breaking Barriers

At ICBA, we're committed to empowering and advancing community banks nationwide. That's why we host an exclusive invitation-only event in Washington, D.C., where you will gain insights on current issues facing banks like yours, discuss solution opportunities, and ways to strengthen our advocacy voice.

Engage with experts on the latest issues facing community banks, from the current market environment to how new technologies like AI are transforming the banking industry.
Network with other large community bank leaders facing the same decisions you are.
Gain insights on the political landscape heading into 2025 and how it will impact your community bank.
Learn about ICBA's latest initiatives to support large community banks in Washington, D.C.

If you have questions about the event, please contact
Ron Haynie at [email protected].

Event Schedule

Schedule is subject to change.

Wednesday, December 4

3:00– 4:05 p.m.

Welcome and Keynote Address

Speakers: Rebeca Romero Rainey, ICBA President and CEO; Jason Jones, Chairman, ICBA Large Community Bank Council

State of the Economy

Speaker: Chris Dhanraj, Managing Principal of Investments CLA Tampa

4:15 - 5:00 p.m.

Banker Roundtables Session – Liquidity Management

Speaker: Dan Elder, Managing Director, IntraFi

5:30 – 6:15 p.m.

Networking Reception

6:15 - 8:00 p.m.

All Attendee Dinner and Post-Election Political Update

Thursday, December 5

7:30 - 8:30 a.m.

Breakfast Session

Speaker: Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.) Chairman, Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, House Financial Services Committee

8:30 - 9:20 a.m.

Cybersecurity Panel Discussion

Speakers: Ken Morrison, Director, Cyber Risk Control, Travelers; Daniel Kurz, Deputy Special Agent, United States Secret Service

9:30 - 10:20 a.m.

CRA Investing Trends and Opportunities

Speakers: Jessica Botelho, Co-Chief Impact Strategist and Jamie Horwitz, Chief Marketing Officer

Join CCM’s Jessica Botelho and Jamie Horwitz for an interactive discussion on CRA investing trends and opportunities. Explore insights from CCM’s recent CRA investing survey including types of CRA-qualified investments, mortgage-backed securities for affordable homeownership, prior vs. current period investments, and other CRA investments. CCM celebrates 25 years of helping community banks meet CRA requirements. This session will conclude with a Q&A.

10:45 - 11:30 a.m.

Fireside Chat with Rebeca Romero Rainey ICBA President and CEO and Travis Hill, Vice Chairman, FDIC Board of Directors

11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

How to Build an Innovative Culture at Your Bank

Moderator: Charles Potts, ICBA EVP and Chief Innovation Officer

Join top banking leaders as they share actionable strategies for fostering a culture of innovation that drives growth and competitive advantage. Discover how to empower your teams, embrace cutting-edge solutions, and stay ahead in an evolving financial landscape.

12:30 – 1:50 p.m.