Russ Kuehn Named to WBA Leaders in Banking Excellence
MADISON – Russ Kuehn has been recognized by the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) for his excellence in banking, community service, and civic involvement. WBA hosted a celebration on Friday, September 11, unveiling three new plaques on the Leaders in Banking Excellence installation at its headquarters in Madison. The wall, established in 2020, now profiles 35 remarkable leaders.
“It is a privilege to celebrate Russ and the meaningful impact he made through his leadership, service, and commitment to Wisconsin’s communities,” said Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO. “Russ’s induction into the Leaders in Banking Excellence recognizes a career defined by integrity and dedication to our industry and the communities he serves.”
Kuehn dedicated more than 55 years to community banking. His banking journey began at the National Bank of Canby in Minnesota and continued through leadership roles at Deuel County National Bank, First National Bank in St. Croix Falls, Mid-Wisconsin Bank, First National Bank of Berlin, First Berlin Bancorp, and Fortifi Bank, where he served as President, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman.
Throughout his career, Kuehn remained steadfast in his belief that banking is fundamentally about people, relationships, trust, and stewardship. For more than 25 years, he has helped guide Fortifi Bank through growth, modernization, and change while ensuring the institution remained firmly rooted in the values that define community banking. His humility, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to doing what was right earned the respect and trust of colleagues, customers, shareholders, and communities alike.
Kuehn’s influence extended well beyond his own institution through decades of service to Wisconsin’s banking industry. As a leader of Community Bankers of Wisconsin, serving as Vice Chairman, Chairman-Elect, Chairman, and Past Chairman, Kuehn was a passionate advocate for community banks and the vital role they play in helping local communities thrive. He represented Wisconsin bankers with distinction and championed policies that strengthened Main Street institutions across Wisconsin.
Equally devoted to community service, Kuehn generously shared his time and expertise with organizations dedicated to healthcare, economic development, and community improvement. His career stands as a testament to the enduring impact of principled leadership, relationship-based banking, and a life dedicated to helping others succeed. Through the institutions Kuehn strengthened, the communities he served, and the countless individuals he mentored along the way, Kuehn leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of Wisconsin bankers.
Also honored in the Class of 2026 Leaders in Banking Excellence honorees were the late Travis Holt, Citizens State Bank of Loyal and William (Bill) Sennholz, Forward Bank, Marshfield. To read the bios of each of the 2026 Leaders in Banking Excellence honorees, please visit https://www.wisbank.com/community/excellence/
About the Wisconsin Bankers Association
Founded in 1892, WBA is the state’s largest financial industry trade association, representing nearly 180 commercial banks and savings institutions, their branches, and 30,000 employees. The Association represents banks of all sizes in Wisconsin, and 96 percent of banks in the state are WBA members.
About Fortifi Bank
First Berlin Bancorp, Inc. (OTCQX: FTFI) is the bank holding company of Fortifi Bank. Fortifi Bank is a full-service commercial and retail financial institution founded in Berlin, Wisconsin in 1876. For 150 years, the bank has been growing the financial strength of individuals and businesses while maintaining an independent community bank approach to market. Financial centers can be found in Berlin, Green Lake, Green Bay, Montello, Ripon, Omro, Oshkosh, Waunakee, and Winneconne. Local decision-making, community involvement, community ownership, and a Board of Directors comprised of local citizens have been the driving successes of Fortifi Bank since inception. For more information, visit www.fortifibank.com or call 855-876-1500.
