Newsroom

WAUKESHA, Wis. (November 18, 2025) - Waukesha State Bank, a 14-branch independent community bank in Waukesha County, is proud to announce its partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLBank Chicago) to award a $212,700 Community First® Developer Program grant to Habitat for Humanity of Waukesha, Jefferson and Rock Counties.

 

“Collaborations like this amplify the impact we can have on local families and neighborhoods,” said Ty Taylor, President & CEO of Waukesha State Bank. “We are grateful for our partnership with FHLBank Chicago and honored to support Habitat for Humanity as they expand their capacity and deepen their work in our communities.”

 

The Community First® Developer Program provides nonprofit and for-profit organizations grant funds to support career development initiatives for emerging developers of affordable housing in FHLBank Chicago’s district of Illinois and Wisconsin. FHLBank Chicago member institutions submit grant applications on behalf of eligible organizations to provide valuable professional opportunities to new talent and further affordable housing efforts.

 

“We value our partnership with Waukesha State Bank and their commitment to supporting organizations that expand housing supply in Wisconsin,” said Katie Naftzger, Senior Vice President and Community Investment Officer at FHLBank Chicago. “By helping Habitat for Humanity bring new talent into the field, we’re investing in the people and expertise that strengthen housing opportunities across the region.”

 

Habitat for Humanity of Waukesha, Jefferson and Rock Counties will use the grant dollars to hire two new interns/fellows. 

 

“We are fortunate to have Waukesha State Bank as a long-time partner, and we appreciate how they consistently look for new ways to strengthen our mission. During a time when housing affordability challenges so many families, their partnership helps us build opportunities where they’re needed most,” stated Melissa Songco, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Waukesha, Jefferson and Rock Counties.

 

WAUKESHA, Wis. (November 12, 2025) - Waukesha State Bank, a full-service community bank with 14 locations throughout Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the expansion of its mortgage lending team with the hire of Mario Monterrey as Mortgage Consultant.

 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Mario to our team,” said Leo Spanuello, Senior Vice President – Mortgage Lending Manager at Waukesha State Bank. “His extensive experience in mortgage lending, combined with his passion for helping clients achieve their homeownership goals, makes him an excellent fit. Mario’s customer-first approach and deep understanding of the local market align perfectly with our mission to serve and strengthen the communities of Southeastern Wisconsin.”

 

Mario brings over 20 years of banking experience, including nine years dedicated to mortgage lending. He is known for building trusted relationships, providing personalized guidance, and ensuring a smooth lending process from start to finish. Mario earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing and human resources from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. In his new role, he will focus on helping customers navigate the home-buying journey, from loan origination to closing, while cultivating partnerships with Realtors, builders, and community organizations.

 

WAUKESHA, Wis. (October 21, 2025) – Waukesha State Bank, a 14-branch independent community bank in Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the promotion of Aryanah Viar to Bank Manager of its Muskego office, located at S69 W15273 Janesville Road.

 

“Aryanah has shown outstanding leadership, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for serving our customers,” stated Heather Pfalz, Waukesha State Bank Senior Vice President – Retail Banking Manager. “Her positive energy and commitment to building strong relationships make her a perfect fit to lead our Muskego team and continue supporting the financial needs of the community.”

 

Aryanah started her career with Waukesha State Bank in March 2025 as Team Supervisor of the W. Sunset Drive office in Waukesha, bringing with her seven years of customer service experience, including two years in relationship banking. Since joining the bank, she has quickly made an impact by supporting her team, developing strong customer relationships, and demonstrating exceptional motivation and a willingness to learn.

 

In her new role as Bank Manager of Waukesha State Bank’s Muskego office, Aryanah will oversee all aspects of daily operations, including business development, personnel management, customer service, lending, relationship management and community involvement.

 

WAUKESHA, Wis. (September 5, 2025) – Waukesha State Bank, a full-service community bank with 14 offices throughout Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the promotion of Tia Staude to Deposit and Card Services Manager.

 

“Known for her ability to multi-task, streamline processes, and think creatively, Tia has already made a strong impact to our Deposit Services team,” stated Kristine Baxter, Senior Vice President – Operations Manager at Waukesha State Bank. “Now with the addition of managing our Card Services area, we’re confident her vision and commitment to excellence will continue driving success as she leads both teams forward.”

 

Tia joined Waukesha State Bank in August 2021 as an Operations Coordinator and has over 30 years of retail banking and operations leadership experience. She quickly advanced to Assistant Manager in Deposit Services before transitioning to a new role as Payroll-Human Resources Specialist in the Human Resources department in 2023. Earlier this year, Tia returned to Deposit Services as Manager. 

 

In her new role as Deposit and Card Services Manager, Tia will be responsible for establishing and maintaining procedures which promote accuracy, efficiency, safety and soundness. This includes directing the daily work of the departments, coordinating communication with other areas of the bank to meet sales and service goals, ensuring the bank complies with state and federal laws and regulations, providing guidance for elevated or complex situations, as well as coaching and training department staff.

 

Tia earned her bachelor’s degree in business finance with an emphasis in human resources from Carroll University. 

 

Waukesha, Wis. (July 28, 2025) – Waukesha State Bank, a full-service community bank with 14 offices throughout Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the promotions of Thomas (Thom) Kieffer to Vice President – Senior Wealth Advisor and Amanda (Mandy) Lavota to Senior Private Banking Associate within its Wealth Management division.

 

“At Waukesha State Bank, our Wealth Management team is committed to building long-lasting client relationships and delivering customized financial solutions that evolve with life’s changes,” stated Mike Swope, Director of Wealth Management Services at Waukesha State Bank Wealth Management. “Thom and Mandy exemplify this mission through their dedication, expertise, and personalized approach. Thom’s deep background in wealth management, tax planning, and fiduciary services makes him a trusted resource and leader as he steps into this new role. Likewise, Mandy’s proven track record of exceptional client service and her commitment to supporting private banking clients will be instrumental in helping us continue to grow and serve the community. We are proud to recognize their contributions with these well-deserved promotions.”

 

Thom Kieffer joined Prairie Trust, a division of Waukesha State Bank, in March 2020 as Senior Trust Administrator following an extensive career leading the trust and retirement services department at WNB Financial, NA (formerly Winona National Bank) in Winona, Minnesota. With more than 35 years of experience in trust, financial advisory and tax planning, Thom brings comprehensive expertise in wealth management, financial planning, business development, and investment management. He was promoted to Vice President – Senior Trust Administrator in June 2020.

 

In his new role as Vice President – Senior Wealth Advisor, Thom will transition to Waukesha State Bank’s Wealth Management division, where he will focus on business development and relationship management, helping clients navigate complex financial situations and achieve their long-term goals. 

 

Thom earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota and holds Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Certified Trust & Financial Advisor (CTFA) designations. He began his career in public accounting as a tax specialist and proudly retained his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) title for the past three decades. He and his wife Robyn currently reside in New Berlin. Thom is active in the community serving on the Board of Directors and volunteering as a new member skills trainer for the Wauwatosa Curling Club. Thom also serves as Treasurer and actively participates on the Church Counsel at his church in West Allis.

 

Mandy Lavota joined Waukesha State Bank in 2017 as a Teller and has consistently advanced her career by taking on new roles and responsibilities. Her career progression includes positions such as Mentor, Customer Service Representative, Assistant Team Supervisor, Team Supervisor, Personal Banker and Assistant Bank Manager. In January 2024, she transitioned to the Wealth Management division as a Private Banking Associate. 

 

In her new role as Senior Private Banking Associate, Mandy will continue to support the growth of private banking relationships, providing high-touch, personalized service to meet clients’ specialized financial needs. Mandy holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee.

 

“Kevin is a valuable addition to our commercial banking team,” said Tony Laszewski, Senior Vice President – Commercial Banking Manager at Waukesha State Bank. “His deep industry knowledge and technical skillset make him well-suited to address the unique challenges and opportunities our business customers face. We look forward to the impact he will have on our team and the broader community.”

 

Kevin brings a long track record of comprehensive financial experience to Waukesha State Bank.  His distinguished career focuses on providing customized financial solutions and building strong partnerships with business clients across all aspects of the business banking sector.  

 

In his new position at Waukesha State Bank, Kevin will focus on cultivating and managing commercial loan relationships, helping businesses across southeastern Wisconsin achieve their financial goals.

 

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Kevin is deeply committed to community service. He actively volunteers with Corpus Christi Parish and School in Waukesha and has previously been involved with several local organizations, including the YMCA of Greater Waukesha County, United Way, the Potawatomi Area Council of the Boy Scouts, Waukesha Noon Kiwanis, and the Waukesha County Business Alliance. A Waukesha resident for over 30 years, Kevin is passionate about making a positive impact both through his work and within his community.

 

Waukesha State Bank is proud to welcome Kevin and is confident that his expertise will be instrumental in further enhancing the bank’s commercial banking offerings.

 

WAUKESHA, Wis. (June 5, 2025) – Waukesha State Bank is proud to announce the promotion of Adam Kozicki to President of Payroll Complete, the Bank’s payroll services division. Adam brings more than 10 years of experience in payroll processing and implementation, with a strong focus on delivering exceptional service and operational excellence.

 

“We are excited to elevate Adam to this well-deserved leadership role,” said Kristine Baxter, Senior Vice President – Operations Manager at Waukesha State Bank. “His expertise in payroll processing, project management, and process efficiency has made a measurable impact. Adam is not only a strategic thinker, but also a compassionate leader who champions our mission to deliver outstanding service to every client.”

 

Adam joined Payroll Complete in October 2020 as a Senior Payroll Services Advisor, bringing over six years of prior industry experience. He was promoted to Lead Payroll Services Advisor in January 2022, and then to Assistant Payroll Services Director in March 2023. Over the years, Adam has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, deep technical knowledge, and a calm, solution-focused approach that has earned the trust of both clients and colleagues.

 

As President of Payroll Complete, Adam will provide strategic oversight for all aspects of the division, including operations, tax compliance, client fulfillment, implementation, sales, and business development. He will ensure seamless service delivery and regulatory adherence while fostering continuous improvement and innovation. 

 

Adam holds bachelor’s degrees in finance and management information systems from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. A dedicated community advocate, Adam currently serves as a volunteer for Heritage Home Delivers, an organization through Heritage Presbyterian Church in Muskego. Heritage Home Delivers provides and delivers furniture and home goods to homeless families transitioning to a dwelling. Since 2017, the project has served 475 households, and Adam has personally contributed to hundreds of those deliveries.

 

“I’m honored to take on this new role and continue building on the strong foundation we’ve established at Payroll Complete. Our team is passionate about helping businesses thrive by delivering efficient, accurate, and personalized payroll solutions. I’m excited to lead us into the next chapter of growth and innovation.” 
- Adam Kozicki, President, Payroll Complete

 

 

Waukesha, Wis. (June 2, 2025) – Waukesha State Bank, a full-service community bank with 14 offices throughout Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the promotion of Theresa Schultz to Vice President – Investment Services Administrator within its Wealth Management division. 

 

Theresa Schultz began her career with Waukesha State Bank as an intern in 2000. Over the past 25 years, she has steadily advanced through a variety of key roles, including Trust Assistant, Pension Administrator, Retirement Services Administrator, Senior Retirement Specialist and Investment Services Administrator. She was promoted to Officer in 2016, and to Assistant Vice President in 2019. 

 

In her role as Vice President – Investment Services Administrator, Theresa will continue to serve as the primary contact for numerous Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and Investment Management Agency Accounts (IMAs). She will also oversee the broader management of the bank’s IRA relationships, working directly with clients to provide personalized service and support. 

 

“Theresa’s commitment to excellence and deep expertise in investment management have made her a vital part of our Wealth Management team," said Victor Schultz, President of Waukesha State Bank Wealth Management. "Her promotion is a reflection of her outstanding leadership, dedication to our clients, and the high standards she consistently upholds.”

 

Theresa is a Certified IRA Services Professional (CISP). She earned her associate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Waukesha and her bachelor's degree in business administration from Carroll University.

 

WAUKESHA, Wis. (April 25, 2025) – Waukesha State Bank, a 14-branch independent community bank in Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the promotion of Bob Meidenbauer to Senior Vice President - Commercial Banking Team Lead. 

 

“Bob is an exceptional banking professional who has played a pivotal role in our continued success,” said Tony Laszewski, Waukesha State Bank Senior Vice President – Commercial Banking Manager. “His expertise, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our customers and communities have been instrumental in driving our growth.”

 

Bob Meidenbauer joined Waukesha State Bank in 2016 as Vice President – Commercial Banking Officer and has since been integral to the expansion and success of the commercial banking department. He has nearly 20 years of financial experience and was promoted to Vice President – Commercial Banking Team Lead in 2019. In his new role as Senior Vice President – Commercial Banking Team Lead, Bob will continue to be responsible for helping shape the commercial banking department’s sales culture, business development and market visibility, which includes talent recruitment and coaching, referral relationship development, direct marketing and commercial loan portfolio management. 

 

Bob holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and marketing, as well as a Master of Business Administration in financial strategy, both from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. He is also a 2021 graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Graduate School of Banking. A dedicated community advocate, Bob currently serves on the board of Marquardt Village and is a Loan Committee Member for Economic Development Washington County (EDWC).

 

Waukesha, Wis. (April 17, 2025) – Waukesha State Bank, a full-service community bank with 14 offices throughout Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the addition of Michael Swope as the new Director of Wealth Management Services within its Wealth Management division.

 

“At Waukesha State Bank, we are dedicated to providing best-in-class wealth management solutions tailored to meet our clients' evolving needs,” stated Victor J. Schultz, President & Chief Fiduciary Officer of Waukesha State Bank Wealth Management. “Mike’s deep expertise in wealth management and strong leadership background make him exceptionally well-suited to lead our team into the future.”  

    

Michael brings more than 20 years of investment and wealth management experience to his new role. Most recently, he served as Director of Institutional Consulting Services & Senior Institutional Consultant for Robert W. Baird & Co., Inc., where he led the firm’s $5 billion institutional consulting business – supporting top-tier clients and financial advisor teams nationwide. Prior to that, he was Director of Manager Research and Vice President at BMO Global Asset Management, where he managed large, commingled trusts and oversaw more than 230 active managers. 

 

In his new role, Michael will lead the Waukesha State Bank Wealth Management team, overseeing investment strategy, portfolio management, financial planning, private banking, retirement plan services, and brokerage offerings.

 

Michael holds both Bachelor’s and Master of Business Administration degrees in Finance from the University of Notre Dame and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). Reflecting his commitment to community involvement, he also serves on the Finance and Investment Committees for Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity.

WAUKESHA, Wis. (April 11, 2025) – Waukesha State Bank, a trusted independent community bank with 14 branches across Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the promotion of Beth Kazinski to the role of Assistant Vice President - Commercial Banking Officer. 

 

“Beth’s unwavering dedication to expanding her expertise and her consistent contributions to both our team and the local business community make this promotion a well-deserved recognition of her hard work,” said Tony Laszewski, Senior Vice President and Commercial Banking Manager at Waukesha State Bank. “Her focus on customer relationships and her deep understanding of our credit philosophy will undoubtedly make her an even greater asset in her new role.”

 

Kazinski joined Waukesha State Bank in 2023 as a Commercial Workout Specialist, bringing with her over 25 years of correspondent banking experience in the residential mortgage loan industry. Over the past two years, she has collaborated closely with the loan review and commercial banking teams, gaining valuable experience in loan workout, deepening her understanding of the bank’s credit approach, and fostering strong relationships both within the bank and with clients. In her new position as Assistant Vice President - Commercial Banking Officer, Kazinski will be responsible for prospecting, developing and managing commercial loan portfolios.

 

Outside of her professional accomplishments, Kazinski is also dedicated to giving back to the community. She volunteers with Metro Mountain Bikers, helping to clean and maintain the bike trails at Waukesha County Parks.

 

WAUKESHA, Wis. (April 9, 2025) – Waukesha State Bank, a 14-branch independent community bank in Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the promotion of Nicole Tindall to Vice President - Regional Bank Manager. 

 

“Nicole has over 15 years of financial experience and a deep understanding of Waukesha State Bank’s culture, having served in various roles with us,” stated Heather Pfalz, Waukesha State Bank Senior Vice President – Retail Banking Manager. “We’re thrilled she’s accepted this new position, which will provide additional guidance and support to bank managers, employees and office operations in her respective region.” 

 

Nicole first joined Waukesha State Bank in 2009 as a Teller, advancing through the ranks to roles including Teller Supervisor, Personal Banker, and eventually Bank Manager of both the W. Sunset Drive and Oconomowoc offices. In 2015, she transitioned to the bank’s Payroll Complete division as Business Development Associate. After a brief period away to explore other opportunities in banking and wealth management, Nicole returned to Waukesha State Bank in 2024 to manage the W. Sunset Drive office in Waukesha. In her new role as Vice President – South Regional Bank Manager, Nicole will continue to manage the W. Sunset Drive location and oversee the south Waukesha State Bank region, which includes the W. Sunset Drive, Waukesha; E. Racine Avenue, Waukesha; Muskego and New Berlin locations. 

 

In addition to her banking career, Nicole is an active volunteer in the local community, having served on the boards of organizations such as 180 Juvenile Diversion, the Oconomowoc Area Chamber of Commerce, SummerStage of Delafield, and the Hope Center of Waukesha. 

 

WAUKESHA, Wis. (April 1, 2025) - Waukesha State Bank is celebrating Community Banking Month, throughout April, with a variety of pay it forward events including gift card giveaways, lunches for first responders, nonprofit donations and much more.

 

“Community Banking Month is a chance for Waukesha State Bank, as one of the largest independent, community banks in the state of Wisconsin, to celebrate our role in strengthening our local communities,” said Stephanie Ohlfs, Waukesha State Bank Senior Vice President – Marketing Director. 

 

Visit www.waukeshabank.com/community-banking-month-calendar or follow Waukesha State Bank’s social media pages to find out where our staff will be throughout the month. If you find us, you could receive something special.

 

WAUKESHA, Wis. (March 6, 2025) – Waukesha State Bank, a 14-branch independent community bank in Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the promotions of Tom Armstrong to Senior Vice President – Manager of Loan Review and Darci Miller to Vice President - Commercial Banking Team Lead. These well-deserved promotions reflect their exceptional leadership, expertise, and unwavering commitment to Waukesha State Bank’s mission. 

 

Ty Taylor, Waukesha State Bank President & CEO, shared, “Tom and Darci are exceptional banking professionals who have each played a pivotal role in our success. Their expertise, leadership, and dedication to our customers and communities are key drivers in our continued growth. We are confident that their promotions will further strengthen our ability to serve our clients and contribute to the overall success of Waukesha State Bank.”

 

Tom Armstrong’s distinguished career in lending and leadership began in 1983, when he joined Waukesha State Bank for a summer project focused on commercial loans. He started full-time with the Bank in 1984 and has held numerous key roles over the years, including Assistant Cashier, Consumer Lender, Loan Compliance Officer, Commercial Lender, Commercial Lending Manager, Senior Investment Officer and currently serves as Loan Review Manager. He was promoted to Assistant Vice President in 1990 and Vice President in 1994. In his new role as Senior Vice President – Loan Review Manager, Tom will continue to oversee and refine the bank’s loan review processes, ensuring the continued integrity of the lending portfolio and supporting the bank’s strategic goals.

 

Tom’s Waukesha-area education began at St. Mary’s Catholic Grade School and Catholic Memorial High School. Tom went on to earn his Bachelor of Science (BS) in mathematics from the University of Wisconsin – Madison and his Master of Business Administration (MBA) in finance from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. Additionally, Tom is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin’s Graduate School of Banking and has been very involved in his community over the years serving in various roles with Catholic Social Services, the United Way of Waukesha County, the Republican Party of Waukesha County, the City of Waukesha’s Fox River Committee, Junior Achievement and Waukesha Noon Rotary Club.

 

Darci Miller joined Waukesha State Bank in 2024 and has since played a critical role in the growth of the commercial banking department. As Vice President - Commercial Banking Team Lead, Darci will be responsible for helping shape the commercial banking department’s sales culture, business development and market visibility, which includes talent recruitment and coaching, referral relationship development, direct marketing and commercial loan portfolio management. With nearly 30 years of experience in business banking, Darci has proven herself to be a leader committed to helping local businesses thrive. 

 

Darci holds both a BS and MBA in finance from Marquette University. A strong advocate for community engagement, Darci is a member of Tempo Milwaukee, South Suburban Chamber of Commerce, and Muskego Chamber of Commerce. She has also served on the boards of several organizations, including Milwaukee Achiever Literacy Services, the Public Policy Forum in Milwaukee, and Habitat for Humanity.

 

WAUKESHA, Wis. (February 25, 2025) – Waukesha State Bank, a 14-branch independent community bank in Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the promotion of Heather Pfalz to senior vice president – retail banking manager.

 

“Heather has been an integral member of our Retail Banking team for nearly 30 years,” stated Ty Taylor, Waukesha State Bank President & CEO. “We are proud to celebrate her contributions and look forward to the continued impact she will have on our bank’s growth.”

 

Heather started her career with Waukesha State Bank in 1997 as a teller and has held various positions during her employment. She was promoted to bank officer in 2003, assistant vice president in 2010 and vice president in 2017. She has managed the bank’s Meadowbrook (2001-2004), Oconomowoc (2004-2008), Sussex (2008-2017) and Downtown Waukesha (2017-May 2023) offices and played an integral role in opening both the Oconomowoc and Sussex locations. In 2020, Heather was promoted to a regional retail banking manager and in 2023 to retail banking manager. In her new role as senior vice president - retail banking manager, Heather will continue to oversee the daily operations of the entire retail banking division. She is responsible for implementing a strategic vision for retail banking, managing and developing retail staff, driving business development activities, fostering an exceptional customer experience culture and keeping current on the latest retail banking trends, regulation changes and technological advancements.  

 

Heather is actively involved with Waukesha County non-profit organizations currently serving as a volunteer for Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast, Donna Lexa Art Centers, and with her faith community. Additionally, she is a member of The Barbershop Harmony Society and sings with the Joyful Blend Quartet.

 

WAUKESHA, Wis. (January 17, 2025) - Waukesha State Bank, a full-service community bank with 14 locations across Waukesha County, is proud to announce the expansion of its mortgage lending team with the hire of Rashelle Mason as Mortgage Consultant.

Leo Spanuello, Senior Vice President – Mortgage Lending Manager at Waukesha State Bank, shared his enthusiasm for the hire, stating, “Rashelle’s strong background in sales and customer relationship management makes her a valuable addition to our team. Her commitment to understanding client needs and providing exceptional service aligns perfectly with our mission to support local homebuyers.”

Rashelle joins Waukesha State Bank with over 30 years of sales experience, most recently excelling as a consultant in the pharmaceutical and medical sales industry. Her proven ability to build trust, develop client relationships, and navigate complex processes will be key to her success in her new role. As a graduate of the College of St. Catherine’s with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, Rashelle will now focus on guiding customers through the home-buying process, including originating mortgage loans, counseling borrowers and fostering connections with Realtors, builders, financial service providers and community groups.

WAUKESHA, Wis. (January 13, 2025) – Waukesha State Bank, a leading independent community bank with 14 branches across Waukesha County, is proud to announce the promotion of Tyler Kern to vice president – investment officer.

“Tyler has been an invaluable asset to Waukesha State Bank, demonstrating exceptional talent and dedication,” said Ann Pascavis, senior vice president and chief financial officer. “We’re excited to recognize his contributions and look forward to his continued impact on the growth of our bank.”

Tyler Kern joined Waukesha State Bank in 2018 as a commercial banking credit analyst/portfolio manager. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in finance, investment and banking, and risk management and insurance from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Since then, Tyler has steadily advanced, becoming investment officer in December 2021 and assistant vice president – investment officer in August 2022.

In his new role as vice president – investment officer, Tyler will continue to oversee the bank’s investment portfolio, managing its liquidity and sensitivity to interest rate and market risks. His expertise will play a key role in supporting the bank’s financial health and long-term success.

WAUKESHA, Wis. (December 10, 2024) – Waukesha State Bank, a 14-branch independent community bank in Waukesha County, is pleased to announce the return of Nicole Tindall as Bank Manager of its W. Sunset Drive office in Waukesha, located at S31 W25995 W. Sunset Drive.

“Nicole brings over 15 years of financial experience and a deep understanding of Waukesha State Bank’s culture, having served in various roles with us in the past,” stated Heather Pfalz, Waukesha State Bank Vice President – Retail Banking Manager. “We’re thrilled to have her back as part of our Retail Banking team, where she will play a key role in leading the W. Sunset Drive office and continuing to deliver exceptional service to our customers and community.”

Nicole first joined Waukesha State Bank in 2009 as a Teller, advancing through the ranks to roles including Teller Supervisor, Personal Banker, and eventually Bank Manager of both the W. Sunset Drive and Oconomowoc offices. In 2015, she transitioned to the bank’s Payroll Complete division as Business Development Associate. After a brief period away to explore other opportunities in banking and wealth management, Nicole is returning to once again manage the W. Sunset Drive office. In her new role, Nicole will oversee daily branch operations, including business development, customer service, lending, personnel management, relationship building, and community engagement.

In addition to her banking career, Nicole is an active volunteer in the local community, having served on the boards of organizations such as 180 Juvenile Diversion, the Oconomowoc Area Chamber of Commerce, SummerStage of Delafield, and the Hope Center of Waukesha.

WAUKESHA, Wis. (December 6, 2024) - Waukesha State Bank, a 14-branch independent community bank in Waukesha County, is proud to announce its partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLB Chicago) to award two $15,000 Community First® Accelerate Grants to Waukesha small businesses The Steaming Cup and North Pillar Brewing Co.

“Small businesses play a crucial role in our community, offering valuable products and services that enhance our local economy,” stated Waukesha State Bank President & CEO Ty Taylor. “It was an honor partnering with the FHLB Chicago to provide these opportunities to The Steaming Cup and North Pillar Brewing.”

Small businesses are facing challenges with growing or enhancing their operations due to surging borrowing costs in a high-interest rate environment. In response to this need, the FHLB Chicago awarded Accelerate Grants for a third year to support a variety of purposes, including the purchase or improvement of property, equipment, workforce development, and technology. FHLB Chicago member banks, credit unions, insurance companies and community development financial institutions submitted grant applications on behalf of eligible small businesses.

The Steaming Cup utilized their grant to upgrade their heating and air conditioning system, enhancing the comfort of their space. Meanwhile, North Pillar Brewing invested their grant in a new canning line, allowing them to offer four-packs of select beer in the to-go section of their taproom at 212 E. North Street. Looking ahead, they aim to expand their distribution to local restaurants, bars, and liquor stores, bringing their craft brews to even more customers.

WAUKESHA, Wis. (November 20, 2024) - Waukesha State Bank, a trusted full-service community bank with 14 locations across Waukesha County, is excited to announce the appointment of Darci Miller as Vice President - Commercial Banking Officer. This strategic addition reinforces the bank’s commitment to enhancing commercial banking services and strengthening relationships with businesses throughout southeastern Wisconsin.

“We are thrilled to welcome Darci to our commercial banking team,” stated Tony Laszewski, Waukesha State Bank Senior Vice President – Commercial Banking Manager. “Her extensive experience in commercial banking makes her an ideal fit for supporting the diverse needs of our business clients. We are confident that she will significantly contribute to our team and the local business community.”

With nearly 30 years of financial experience, Darci has built a distinguished career in the business banking sector. Prior to joining Waukesha State Bank, she served as Senior Vice President – Business Services for a local credit union and played a pivotal role in expanding market presence in the Greater Milwaukee area.

Darci holds both a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Marquette University. In her new role, she will focus on prospecting, developing and managing commercial loan portfolios, ensuring that local businesses have access to the resources they need to thrive.

A strong advocate for community engagement, Darci is a member of Tempo Milwaukee, South Suburban Chamber of Commerce, and Muskego Chamber of Commerce. She has also served on the boards of several organizations, including Milwaukee Achiever Literacy Services, the Public Policy Forum in Milwaukee, and Habitat for Humanity. Residing in Franklin with her family, Darci is dedicated to making a positive impact both professionally and personally.

Waukesha State Bank is thrilled to welcome Darci to the team and eagerly anticipates the valuable insights and leadership she will contribute to the commercial banking division.

WAUKESHA, Wis. (November 15, 2024) - Waukesha State Bank, a trusted full-service community bank with 14 locations across Waukesha County, is proud to announce the retirement of Patricia Witkowiak, Senior Vice President – Operations Manager. After 11 years of dedicated service and numerous contributions to the bank’s success, Witkowiak will embark on a well-deserved retirement journey, effective January 10, 2025.

In her place, we are excited to introduce Kristine Baxter as the new Senior Vice President – Operations Manager, who will bring fresh energy and expertise to the team. Additionally, we are pleased to announce the promotion of Jacob Pyle to Vice President - Risk Officer, further strengthening our commitment to excellence in operations, compliance and risk management.

“We are incredibly grateful for Pat Witkowiak’s years of service to Waukesha State Bank. She has been instrumental in driving our growth and operational success while fostering a culture of teamwork and innovation. Pat’s commitment to our mission has left a lasting impact on our organization and we wish her all the best in this new chapter of her life,” stated Ty R. Taylor, President & CEO of Waukesha State Bank. “Additionally, we look forward to the new perspectives that Kris and Jacob will bring as we continue to serve our community.”

Patricia Witkowiak joined Waukesha State Bank in 2013 as the Assistant Manager of Operations. She quickly rose through the ranks, becoming Vice President – Assistant Manager of Operations in February 2016, Vice President – Manager of Operations in July of 2016 and finally Senior Vice President – Manager of Operations in 2021. Throughout her tenure, she has managed the bank’s day-to-day operations, including security, information systems, facilities management, deposit compliance and Bank Secrecy Act/Anti-Money Laundering (BSA/AML) programs, while also spearheading new product development and implementation. Notably, she has played a key role in the opening of four new branches and the launch of various products and services, including mobile banking, online bill pay, online account opening, mobile wallets, and contactless debit cards.

"I am incredibly grateful for the past 11 years at Waukesha State Bank,” said Witkowiak. “It has been a privilege to work alongside such a talented team and to contribute to our shared success. I look forward to my retirement with fond memories of my time here and wish Kris and Jacob all the best as they take on their new roles. I am confident that the bank will continue to thrive."

Kristine Baxter brings nearly 30 years of financial experience to Waukesha State Bank, with a distinguished career in operations, retail banking, and treasury management. Before joining Waukesha State Bank, she served as Manager of Commercial Treasury Management for Advia Credit Union, where she managed commercial banking online channels, vendor relationships, and implemented various products and services to meet client needs. In her new role as Senior Vice President – Operations Manager, Baxter will oversee the bank’s daily operations, ensuring efficiency and compliance with regulatory standards. This includes streamlining processes to enhance service delivery, managing and training staff, and integrating new technologies to drive efficiency.

Baxter holds an associate degree in business and marketing from Gateway Technical College and is actively involved in her community. She currently serves on the board of directors for Walworth County Habitat for Humanity.

Jacob Pyle joined Waukesha State Bank in March 2024 as the Director of Internal Audit and has over six years of finance and risk management experience. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree in accounting and finance from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh and his Juris Doctorate from Mitchell Hamline School of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota. Additionally, he is a Certified Public Accountant. In his new role as Waukesha State Bank’s Vice President - Risk Officer, Pyle will lead the bank’s risk management strategy and framework, identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to ensure financial stability and regulatory compliance. He will also manage the bank’s compliance team and serve as the bank’s Information Security Officer.