This event is currently being hosted on a separate registration page. Click here to be redirected to the appropriate page.


Dates

Wednesday, April 29, 2026 - Saturday, May 02, 2026

Time

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM EDT

Early Bird Discount Deadline

Wednesday, April 29, 2026

Location

Mass Bankers 2026 Annual Convention Event Image

Vision & Intelligence: Steering the Next Era of Banking

Set against the iconic backdrop of The Breakers, the 2026 Massachusetts Bankers Association Annual Convention brings together CEOs, senior executives, and industry leaders for a truly premier leadership experience.

As artificial intelligence and emerging technologies rapidly redefine banking, today’s executives face both unprecedented opportunity and complexity. This year’s convention is designed to help leaders cut through the noise—exploring how AI and technology can sharpen strategic decision-making, enhance customer experience, strengthen risk management, and drive sustainable, long-term growth.

Through high-impact keynote sessions, candid peer exchange, and forward-looking dialogue, attendees will gain practical insight and strategic confidence to guide their institutions into the next era of banking. Purposefully designed for executives at the highest level, the program offers space to reflect, recalibrate, and connect with peers who are shaping the future of the industry.

CEO Attendance Strongly Encouraged: If the CEO is unable to attend, we highly encourage sending a senior executive to ensure your institution benefits from the ideas, relationships, and strategic intelligence shared at this flagship event.

Why Attend

Unmatched Executive Education & Networking

Consistently recognized as one of the most valuable programs for bankers and directors, the MBA Annual Convention delivers an exceptional blend of education and connection.

Attendees will benefit from:

  • Nationally recognized speakers addressing today’s most critical industry challenges
  • Executive-level discussions on leadership, innovation, culture, and economic outlook
  • Meaningful networking with peers from across New England and beyond

This is where relationships are strengthened, ideas are exchanged, and perspectives are elevated.

Championship Golf at The Breakers’ Ocean Course

Support the Mass Bankers PAC and the Mass Bankers Charitable Foundation while enjoying a premier golf experience at one of Florida’s most celebrated courses.

Thursday, April 30 | 9:00 a.m. Shotgun Start

Redesigned in 2018 by renowned architect Rees Jones, The Breakers’ Ocean Course masterfully blends classic heritage with modern playability. With sweeping ocean views, refined course conditions, and distinctive design elements inspired by the original 1897 Alexander H. Findlay layout, this round promises both challenge and unforgettable scenery.

This tournament benefits the MBA PAC. Please note that the $125 PAC fee is a voluntary contribution and must be paid separately using a personal card via this link. 

The Palm Beach Soirée

A Lilly Pulitzer–Inspired Welcome Reception & Dinner

Begin the convention in true Palm Beach fashion with a vibrant welcome reception and dinner on Thursday evening. Set amid bold prints, bright colors, and effortless coastal elegance, this signature evening offers the perfect setting for cocktails, conversation, and connection.

Dress Code: Embrace the spirit of Palm Beach—think bold florals, lively patterns, and chic Lilly-inspired attire.

 

MBA Pickleball Tournament

Serve, smash, and rally your way to victory! Join us for a fun and competitive Pickleball Tournament Saturday, May 2. ! Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to try something new, this is a great way to connect with fellow attendees, show off your skills, and enjoy some friendly competition. Sign up here!

 

Closing Reception & Farewell Evening

Saturday evening brings the convention to a memorable close with a celebratory reception honoring the connections, conversations, and shared experiences of the week.

Following the reception, attendees are invited to enjoy dinner on their own—whether continuing conversations with fellow bankers or exploring Palm Beach for a relaxed and memorable final night.

Registration Information

Member Registration Fee: $2,370.00
Guest Registration Fee: $1,250.00
Golf Fee: $450.00

Bring your team and be rewarded! When you register four convention attendees, you’ll receive one additional registration at no cost!

The member registration fee includes all convention programming, refreshments, receptions, breakfasts, dinners, entertainment, speaker expenses, materials, and audiovisual services.

The guest registration fee includes refreshments, receptions, breakfasts, dinners, and entertainment.

Hotel Update – Room Block Sold Out!— Thank You!

The MBA group room block is officially sold out — we’re thrilled to have such a strong response to the Convention! There may be a few rooms available on various nights, check with the hotel.  

Rooms are still available at The Breakers but at prevailing rates.  

If you still need accommodations, don’t worry. There are several fantastic hotels just a short distance from our meeting location:

• The Ben West Palm
• Canopy by Hilton West Palm Beach Downtown 
• Hilton West Palm Beach
• Residence Inn West Palm Beach Downtown
• Palm Beach Historic Inn

We encourage you to book directly with the hotel of your choice, as availability may be limited.

Dress Code

The convention dress code is resort casual, balancing comfort with polished professionalism.

Please consider individual venues and activities when planning attire. Shorts are welcome on opening night.

Travel & Arrival

The Breakers offers convenient access from major South Florida airports:

  • Palm Beach International Airport (PBI): 6 miles (direct service via Delta and JetBlue)
  • Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL): 42 miles
  • Miami International Airport (MIA): 72 miles

For flight or ground transportation assistance, please contact:

Michael Seibert
Quinwell Travel
mes@quinwell.com

 

Thank you to our Convention Planning Committee

Pat Thorpe, President & CEO, BankGloucester – Chair
Christina Bodine Aysseh, Vice President, Relationship Manager, ACBB
Matt Garrity, President & CEO, Florence Bank
Bob Fraser, President & CEO, MountainOne Bank
John Latino Jr., President & COO, Millbury National Bank
Mike Wheeler, President & CEO, TruNorth Bank


Registration Fees

Back Cover Ad Sponsorship
Early Standard Late
$1500.00
Complimentary Member Registration
Early Standard Late
$0.00
Exhibit Table
Early Standard Late
$500.00
Gold Level Sponsorship
Early Standard Late
$0.00
Gold Sponsorship opportunities selected upon registration. Prices reflected in cart at checkout. See Sponsor tab for more details. 
Guest Registration
Early Standard Late
$1250.00
Half-Page Ad Sponsorship
Early Standard Late
$500.00
Inside Cover Ad Sponsorship
Early Standard Late
$1500.00
Member Registration
Early Standard Late
$2370.00
Platinum Level Sponsorship
Early Standard Late
$0.00
Platinum Sponsorship opportunities selected upon registration. Prices reflected in cart at checkout. See Sponsor tab for more details. 
Silver Level Sponsorship
Early Standard Late
$0.00
Silver Sponsorship opportunities selected upon registration. Prices reflected in cart at checkout. See Sponsor tab for more details. 
Hotel/Meal Package

Agenda

  Golf Registration for PAC Golf Tournament - Ocean Course Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$450.00
  Pickleball Tournament Registration Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$150.00
  Mobile App Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$4000.00
  Beverage Cart for Golf Tournament Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3000.00
  Breakfast Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3000.00
  Candy Gift Bags Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3000.00
  Centerpiece Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$2000.00
  Coasters Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$2000.00
  Coffee Break Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$2000.00
  Coffee Sleeves Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$2000.00
  Dinner Entertainment (Thursday Night) Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$4000.00
  Signature Cocktail (Thursday Night) Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$4000.00
  Signature Cocktail (Saturday Night) Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$4000.00
  Welcome Gift Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$5000.00
  Golf Tournament Breakfast Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3000.00
  Half-Page Ad Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
  Lanyard Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3000.00
  Mini Massage Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$4000.00
  Notepad Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3000.00
  Pen Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$2000.00
  Photo Booth Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$4000.00
  Sponsor Pickleball Tournament Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3000.00
  Power Break Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3500.00
  Reception Entertainment (Saturday Night) Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$4000.00
  Sunscreen Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3000.00
  Tote Bag Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3000.00
  Weather Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$2000.00
  Welcome Dinner Co-Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3000.00
  Wellness Gift Bag Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3000.00
  WIFI Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$3000.00
  Wine for Dinners Sponsor Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
$4000.00
Wednesday - April 29
  Arrivals for Early Attendees and Golfers Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Thursday - April 30
9:00 am
  PAC Golf Tournament - Ocean Course Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Experience Florida’s oldest golf course, spanning acres of lush green landscapes and nurtured by The Breakers for more than a century. Fully renovated in 2018 by renowned architect Rees Jones, the Ocean Course blends its historic 1897 design with modern playability. Featuring salt-tolerant grasses, distinctive water features, and varied contours, each hole offers a unique challenge, all set against manicured grounds with occasional Atlantic views.
Breakfast will begin at 8:00 am and the Shotgun start will be 9:00 am.

This tournament benefits the MBA PAC. Please note that the $125 PAC fee is a voluntary contribution and must be paid separately using a personal card.
1:00 pm
  Registration – South Loggia West Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
6:30 pm
  Welcome Reception – Ocean Lawn Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
The Palm Beach Soirée: A Lilly Pulitzer Inspired Welcome Reception & Dinner On Thursday evening, step into a vibrant Palm Beach celebration as we open our Annual Convention with a Lilly Pulitzer themed reception and dinner. Surrounded by bold prints, bright colors, and breezy coastal elegance, guests will enjoy cocktails, conversation, and a beautifully curated dinner in true Palm Beach style. Dress code: Guests are encouraged to embrace the theme—think bold florals, lively patterns, and chic Lilly-inspired attire.
7:30 pm
  Welcome Dinner - Ocean Front Lawn Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Conclude the evening with a relaxed yet refined dinner, where Palm Beach elegance meets classic hospitality. Savor a memorable meal while continuing conversations with fellow attendees.
Friday - May 01
7:45 am
  Breakfast and Marketplace - Ponce de Leon Foyer Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Join us in the Exhibit Area for breakfast and conversation. Fuel up for the day while meeting exhibitors and reconnecting with colleagues in an energizing, open setting.
8:30 am
  Welcome Remarks - Ponce de Leon 5, 6 Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Martin Connors, Jr., Vice Chair of River Run Bancorp, MHC, Executive Chairman of Rollstone Bank & Trust, and Board Chair of the Massachusetts Bankers Association, will kick off the convention with an inspiring welcome. With decades of experience guiding the banking industry, Mr. Connors will share his perspective on today’s challenges and opportunities, celebrate the collaboration that makes this community strong, and set the stage for a dynamic and impactful event. Attendees will be energized to connect, learn, and explore new ideas throughout the convention.
8:45 am
  Banking on Tomorrow: How Massachusetts Banks Win in the AI Era Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
The banking industry stands at a pivotal crossroads. While headlines oscillate between AI hype and apocalyptic predictions, the truth for Massachusetts bankers is far more practical and promising. In this keynote, Ron draws on three decades of technology leadership at institutions including Harvard Business School and Apple to demystify artificial intelligence and chart a clear path forward for regional banks seeking to thrive in the digital age.
This isn't about chasing shiny objects or fearing disruption. It's about strategic readiness, competitive positioning, and the deliberate choices that separate banks that flourish from those that fade. Through real-world examples and a practical transformation framework, attendees will leave equipped with a roadmap to begin.

Ron Chandler, Tech Executive | Board Director | Investor
9:45 am
  Leadership Perspectives: A Conversation with the Rob Nichols Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Join us for an insightful conversation with Rob Nichols, President and CEO of the American Bankers Association and Kathleen Murphy, President and CEO of the Massachusetts Bankers Association.
10:45 am
  PowerBreak Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
PowerBreak: Brady Chianciola, Profit Resources
10:50 am
  Refreshment Break Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Break & Energize - Grab a beverage while networking.
11:05 am
  The New Cyberthreat Landscape: How your Business is impacted and How to Be Prepared Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Rachel Wilson is a former senior NSA leader with 15 years of experience at the forefront of U.S. cyber operations, where she directed counterterrorism efforts and oversaw thousands of cyber missions against America’s adversaries. She now serves as the first Head of Cybersecurity for Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, protecting one of the world’s leading financial institutions and its clients. In this compelling keynote, Rachel delivers an inside look at today’s most dangerous cyber threats—from hostile nation states and organized crime to opportunistic hackers armed with powerful, widely available tools. Drawing on real-world experience from the NSA and the financial sector, she reveals how cyber attacks unfold and what organizations and individuals must do to stay ahead in an increasingly volatile digital world.
6:00 pm
  Evening at Leisure Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Guests are encouraged to take advantage of this open evening to connect with fellow members and colleagues over dinner, fostering relationships in a relaxed and elegant setting.
Saturday - May 02
8:30 am
  Breakout Session Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Adopting AI Safely and Soundly: Legal and Regulatory Obligations and Opportunities as AI Becomes a Competitive Necessity
Matt Hanaghan and Dan Hartman, Nutter, McClennen & Fish, LLP

Preparing Your Data for AI, Deposit Defense, and What Comes Next
Moderator: Meaghan Kincaid, Senior Sales Executive, KlariVis
Panelists:
• Meg McsIaac, President, CEO, Bluestone Bank
• Anne Tangen, President & CEO, BankFive
• Julieann Thurlow, President & CEO, Reading Cooperative Bank

Driving Innovation Forward
Explore how organizations are turning ideas into impact through practical innovation strategies. This session will highlight emerging trends, real-world applications, and actionable approaches to foster a culture of innovation, enhance efficiency, and position your organization for future growth.
Steve Dorval
9:45 am
  Annual Meeting and Elections Sold Out! 0 Slots Left

Welcome: Martin Connors, Jr., Vice Chair of River Run Bancorp, MHC, Executive Chairman of Rollstone Bank & Trust, and Board Chair, Massachusetts Bankers Association

Mass Bankers: Leading as a Trusted Guide in a Dynamic World: Kathleen M. Murphy, President and CEO, Mass Bankers Association

Treasurer’s Report: Denis K. Sheahan, Treasurer, Mass Bankers Association and Chief Executive Officer, Eastern Bank

Report of the Nominating Committee: Robert J. Fraser, President & CEO, MountainOne

Election of 2026-2027 Officers and Directors:
Martin Connors, Jr., Vice Chair of River Run Bancorp, MHC, Executive Chairman of Rollstone Bank & Trust, and Board Chair, Massachusetts Bankers Association

Remarks By: Anne P. Tangen, Vice Chair, Mass Bankers Association and President & CEO, Bank Five
11:00 am
  PowerBreak Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
PowerBreak: Erik Devine, Vitex, Inc.
11:05 am
  Refreshment Break Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
11:20 am
  12 Strong: An Extraordinary Mission of Commitment, Purpose, Heroism and Hope Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Green Beret Mark Nutsch takes audiences inside the first successful Special Forces mission after 9/11—the true story that inspired the film 12 Strong. Through powerful firsthand accounts, he shares lessons on leadership, teamwork, and overcoming impossible odds, both on the battlefield and as a successful entrepreneur and co-founder of American Freedom Distillery.
2:00 pm
  Pickleball Tournament Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Join fellow attendees for a friendly pickleball tournament where players will compete in a series of matches in this fast-paced and fun sport. Whether you’re playing or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a great opportunity to enjoy some light competition and connect with colleagues.
6:00 pm
  Closing Reception - Ocean Lawn Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
Join us for the Closing Reception as we celebrate a successful convention and reflect on the insights, connections, and momentum built over the past few days. Enjoy great conversation, refreshments, and one final opportunity to connect with colleagues before we head home inspired and energized.

Speakers

NameOrganizationSpeaking At
Anne Tangen
<p>Anne P. Tangen joined BankFive in 2020, driving significant investments in technology, infrastructure, and employee development. A former Chief Information Officer, Anne values the blend of personal service and innovative, customer-friendly technology. Her leadership has earned recognition from media, the community, and industry peers.</p><p>Anne has extensive experience in business and product strategy for wealth management, institutional asset management, and cash management services. She began her career at Fidelity Investments, spent 14 years in leadership roles, and later joined State Street Bank to launch a wealth management business generating $90MM annually. Prior to BankFive, she was Chief Operating Officer at The Cooperative Bank of Cape Cod.&nbsp;</p><p>A graduate of the University of Vermont, Anne founded the Alden Pettengill Foundation and serves on multiple boards, including the SouthCoast Community Foundation and the Massachusetts Bankers Association. Under her leadership, BankFive has earned accolades like The Women’s Edge Top 100 Women-Led Businesses. Anne frequently speaks at industry conferences and received the 2023 Northeast Women of Banking Award.</p>
 BankFive  Annual Meeting and Elections
Breakout Session
Daniel Hartman
<p>Dan Hartman is an of counsel in Nutter’s Corporate Department and a member of the firm’s Banking and Financial Services group, where he focuses on representing banks, bank holding companies, and other financial institutions in regulatory, transactional, supervisory, and enforcement matters. Dan relies on his experience as counsel at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston where he advised on matters involving bank mergers and bank and holding company activities, formal and informal supervisory enforcement actions and appeals, discount window access and emergency lending programs, and Federal Reserve master account requests. While at the Fed, Dan also represented the Reserve Bank in multiple investigations and audits, including before Congress, various inspectors general including the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery (SIGPR), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the Department of Justice (DOJ), in addition to internal investigations.</p>
 Nutter, McClennen and Fish, LLP  Breakout Session
Denis Sheahan
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(74, 75, 76);font-family:Figtree, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Denis Sheahan is the Chief Executive Officer of Eastern Bankshares, Inc. and Eastern Bank. Mr. Sheahan previously served as Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cambridge Trust Company and Cambridge Bancorp from 2015 until its 2024 merger with Eastern. Prior to joining Cambridge Trust Company in April 2015, Mr. Sheahan spent 19 years at Independent Bank Corp. and Rockland Trust where he served as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer. Prior to joining Rockland Trust Company, Mr. Sheahan served as Vice President of Finance for BayBanks, Inc.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(74, 75, 76);font-family:Figtree, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Mr. Sheahan currently serves as Director for the Cambridge Community Foundation, Inc., is an Advisory Board Member of the Rian Immigrant Center and is a Board Member and Treasurer for the Cambridge Family YMCA. Mr. Sheahan also serves as Treasurer and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Bankers Association, and is a Board Trustee for the Massachusetts Bankers Association Charitable Foundation, Inc. Mr. Sheahan is a graduate of the Cork Institute of Technology, Cork, Ireland, and received an MBA from Boston University.</p>
 Eastern Bank  Annual Meeting and Elections
Julieann Thurlow
<p>Julieann M. Thurlow is the President and Chief Executive Officer at Reading Cooperative Bank and is responsible for its strategic direction and management.<br /> <br /> Julieann serves as Chair on the Board for the American Bankers Association. She is immediate Past-Chair of ABA’s Core Platforms Council; and currently serves as a member of the Government Relations Administrative Committee and Membership Council.<br /> <br /> Julie is a founding member of Alloy Labs, a consortium of banks nationally formed to innovate in the banking space and is a Director of Atlantic Community Bankers Bank (ACBB). Locally, Julieann serves on the MA Fintech Hub and is a Board and Executive Committee member of the Lawrence Partnership, the Massachusetts Taxpayer Foundation and the Greater Lawrence Community Health Center.<br /> <br /> American Banker Magazine has repeatedly named Julieann to its list of the Top 25 Women to Watch in Banking and the Commonwealth Institute has named Reading Cooperative Bank a Top 100 Women-Led Business for the past six years running.<br /> <br /> In addition to an MBA from the Charles F. Dolan School of Business at Fairfield University, Julieann completed advanced studies at the Stonier Graduate School of Banking, Harvard Business School’s Division of Continuing Education, and the CEO Leadership Lab at Wharton’s Aresty Institute for Executive Education. She is a proud member of the first cohort of Lawrence Leads, a cross-sectoral leadership program focused on civic engagement and social responsibility taught at Harvard Business School.</p>
 Reading Cooperative Bank  Breakout Session
Kathleen Murphy
<p>Kathleen Murphy is the president and CEO of the Massachusetts Bankers Association, which represents banks of all sizes and charters and is the premier partner and trusted resource for the Commonwealth’s $602 billion banking industry.</p><p><br>With a career spanning state and national banking associations, Kathleen joined MBA in 2020 following twenty-one years at the helm of the Maryland Bankers Association in Annapolis. Before joining the Maryland association, Kathleen served as Director of Community Banking for the American Bankers Association in Washington, D. C. where she led the Association’s largest constituency group of community bank CEOs which influenced policy, education, communication and service strategies.</p><p><br>Kathleen’s earlier career highlights include working as Director of Communications for the Ohio Bankers Association and for Bank One in Columbus.</p><p><br>She serves on the Board of Directors of the BDC Capital Corporation and the Savings Banks Employees Retirement Association (SBERA) and serves on the ABA Community Bankers Council and Mutual Bank Administrative Committee. Kathleen was elected by her peers to chair the State Bankers Association Alliance and in this role served on the Board of Directors of the American Bankers Association in 2010-2011. She also served from 2012-2019 on the Board of Trustees of Marietta College. Kathleen is recipient of numerous awards including the 2021 Marietta College Distinguished Alumni Award; 2019 Maryland Government Relations Association Community Service Award; the Daily Record’s Top 100 Women in Maryland in 2017 and one of fifty Influential Marylanders named by The Daily Record in 2009, 2014 and 2017 and inducted into its Circle of Excellence in 2017.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Kathleen is a graduate of Marietta College in Marietta Ohio and has completed Executive Education courses at the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business. Kathleen and her husband Mike are avid boaters and reside on Boston’s South Shore.<br>200</p>
 Mass Bankers Association  Leadership Perspectives: A Conversation with the Rob Nichols
Mark Nutsch
<p>From the battlefield to the business world, Mark Nutsch shares his remarkable story and the secrets to his success—from leading a heroic 12-man Green Beret team in defeating the Taliban to founding a wildly popular and award-winning bourbon brand.</p><p>In October 2001 following the attacks on 9/11, Mark Nutsch led a team of U.S. Special Forces on a covert mission to Afghanistan, where they would ride to war on horses to fight the enemy—side by side with their Muslim counterparts—capture the strategic city of Mazar-i-Sharif within a matter of weeks, and successfully overthrow the Taliban. Now a consultant to Special Operations Command, he earned a Bronze Star with valor for his bravery. The story inspired a New York Times bestselling book by Doug Stanton, Horse Soldiers, and a 2018 major motion picture called 12 Strong, in which Mark is portrayed by actor Chris Hemsworth.&nbsp;</p><p>Years after this historic event, Mark and a few of his fellow Green Berets teamed up for a different sort of mission: Co-founding American Freedom Distillery and their signature offering, Horse Soldier Bourbon, which is sold in bottles pressed in molds made from steel salvaged from the World Trade Center site. The company achieved remarkable success, and Horse Soldier Bourbon has won more than 30 awards, including three Double Gold Medals at the San Francisco International Spirits Competition, and in 2024 the brand became the “Official Dark Spirit” Sponsor of the Professional Bull Riders.&nbsp;</p><p>Nutsch enthralls audiences with an edge-of-your-seat, behind-the-scenes account of how this almost unbelievable event played out, impacted the world, and earned them the gratitude of a nation. He also shares his impressive entrepreneurial story, discussing how he and his team applied the lessons they’d learned in the military—deliberate and focused planning, short and long term coordination, and maintaining a strategic vision—to grow their business and establish an unforgettable legacy. He inspires audiences to leverage these principles to achieve their own personal and professional goals.</p>
 Speaker  -
12 Strong: An Extraordinary Mission of Commitment, Purpose, Heroism and Hope
Martin Connors
Rollstone Bank & Trust  Annual Meeting and Elections
Matthew Hanaghan
Nutter, McClennen & Fish, LLP  Breakout Session
Meg McIsaac
<p>President and CEO, Bluestone Bank</p><p>&nbsp;</p>
 Bluestone Bank  Breakout Session
Rachel Wilson
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(246, 246, 246);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(68, 67, 72);font-family:&quot;Open Sans&quot;, Arial, sans-serif;font-size:15px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:18px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;"><span style="box-sizing:border-box;">Rachel Wilson spent the first 15 years of her career at the National Security Agency (NSA). Over the course of her NSA career, she held several key senior executive-level leadership positions. Between 2008 and 2010, she ran NSA’s counterterrorism operations and led a global enterprise in detecting and disrupting terrorist plotting against the United States and its allies. Between 2010 and 2012, Rachel served as NSA’s Chief of Operations in the UK working out of the US Embassy in London. In this role, she worked with UK intelligence services to counter terrorist and cyber threats to the 2012 Olympics. Returning to the US in 2012, Rachel spent nearly five years leading NSA’s cyber exploitation operations within NSA’s Tailored Access Operations. In this capacity, she led the planning and execution of thousands of cyber exploitation operations against a wide array of foreign intelligence, military, and cyber targets and served as the committing official for many of NSA’s highest risk and most important intelligence-gathering activities.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(246, 246, 246);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(68, 67, 72);font-family:&quot;Open Sans&quot;, Arial, sans-serif;font-size:15px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:18px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;"><span style="box-sizing:border-box;">In April of 2017, Rachel became the first Head of Cybersecurity for Morgan Stanley Wealth Management and Investment Technology. She is responsible for protecting the cybersecurity of Wealth Management, Investment Management, and Prime Brokerage systems and the integrity and confidentiality of Firm and client data. Additionally, Rachel advises the leadership of Wealth Management, Investment Management, and Prime Brokerage on cybersecurity issues, including secure code development standards, secure network architecture, vendor relationships, advanced persistent threat (APT) detection, and mobile security. She also leads field and client education and communication on cyber risk, threats, and mitigations. She and her team drive innovation for new cybersecurity and authentication technology. Rachel was recognized by Morgan Stanley Wealth Management as part of the 2019 MAKERS Class, a program that honors women who serve as groundbreakers, innovators, and advocates. She was also named one of the Top Women in WealthTech 2020 by ThinkAdvisor.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(246, 246, 246);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(68, 67, 72);font-family:&quot;Open Sans&quot;, Arial, sans-serif;font-size:15px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:18px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;"><span style="box-sizing:border-box;">In her private capacity, Rachel advises individuals, corporations, and institutions on cybersecurity best practices and strategies. She serves on the Advisory Board of WATSCO Inc (NYSE: WSO) and on the CISO Advisory Board of Amgen Inc (NASDAQ: AMGN). Rachel is a leading thinker on protecting children and teenagers from cyber threats and loves educating young people and their parents on how to be safe citizens on the internet. Rachel holds a BA from Wellesley College and an MA from the University of Chicago. Rachel and her husband live in New York City with their two children.</span></p>
 Morgan Stanley  The New Cyberthreat Landscape: How your Business is impacted and How to Be Prepared
Rob Nichols
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(80, 80, 80);font-family:Lato, sans-serif;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:15px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Rob Nichols is the president and CEO of the American Bankers Association, the voice of the nation’s $24.5 trillion banking industry and the only organization that represents banks of all sizes and charters in Washington.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(80, 80, 80);font-family:Lato, sans-serif;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:15px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Since joining ABA in August 2015, Nichols has led the association’s advocacy efforts, working to ensure that banks of all sizes operate in a policy environment that enables them to best serve their customers and communities. In 2018, Nichols led ABA's successful efforts to win passage of the first major banking bill in nearly a decade. Among other things, the bipartisan legislation modified rules for community banks that were originally intended for larger institutions.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(80, 80, 80);font-family:Lato, sans-serif;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:15px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Nichols has led the charge to push back on regulatory overreach of the banking industry through advocacy and legal efforts. In the past several years, ABA has filed seven lawsuits against state and federal regulators, challenging overregulation that harms consumers and negatively impacts banks’ ability to serve their customers and communities.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(80, 80, 80);font-family:Lato, sans-serif;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:15px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">From January 2020 to January 2023, Nichols served as chairman of the International Banking Federation, whose members include the national banking trade associations representing every major financial center.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(80, 80, 80);font-family:Lato, sans-serif;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:15px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Nichols joined ABA following 10 years at the helm of the Financial Services Forum, a nonpartisan economic policy and advocacy organization whose members are the chief executive officers of the largest and most diversified financial institutions doing business in the United States. During his time at the Forum, Nichols led the industry through the financial crisis and the Dodd-Frank Act, guiding his members and the broader banking sector in its policy response and the law’s implementation.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(80, 80, 80);font-family:Lato, sans-serif;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:15px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Before joining the Forum, Nichols served in the George W. Bush administration as assistant secretary for public affairs at the Treasury Department, a position requiring confirmation by the United States Senate. In this role, he acted as chief spokesperson and head of the office of public liaison, serving as Treasury’s lead representative with the media, business, professional trade organizations, consumer groups, and the public.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(80, 80, 80);font-family:Lato, sans-serif;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:15px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Prior to that, he worked as communications director to the late Sen. Slade Gorton and press secretary to the late Rep. Jennifer Dunn. He began his career in public service in the West Wing as a White House aide in the George H.W. Bush administration.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(80, 80, 80);font-family:Lato, sans-serif;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:15px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Nichols is a recipient of the Alexander Hamilton Award, the highest honor of the Department of the Treasury. He has also been consistently named one of the most influential people in Washington by Washingtonian, and one of Washington's top lobbyists by The Hill. The Washington Post has described him as one of the “new generation of trade group CEOs.”</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(80, 80, 80);font-family:Lato, sans-serif;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;margin-bottom:15px;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">He is a graduate of George Washington University.</p>
 American Bankers Association  Leadership Perspectives: A Conversation with the Rob Nichols
Robert Fraser
<p>Robert is a national expert in leadership succession, corporate governance, and talent management across the financial services, private equity, and middle-market sectors. He has over thirty years of talent assessment and executive search experience, after an initial career in corporate banking with two leading Philadelphia institutions. He has successfully led hundreds of CEO-succession projects and financial officer assignments, as well as hundreds of C-level consulting, assessment, and executive search assignments.<br /> <br /> Robert holds an Economics degree from The Pennsylvania State University, and an MBA in Finance from Temple University. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. Alan is a Board Leadership Fellow of the National Association of Corporate Directors, and sits on the Board of Directors of NACD Philadelphia. He recently served as a Global Board Member of the Association of Executive Search and Leadership Consultants, the industry’s leading education and advocacy organization, and as an Advisory Director of Penn Liberty Bank prior to its sale to WSFS Bank. Alan is also known for his 16 years as a weekly business commentator on talent management and career issues for KYW News Radio 1060 in Philadelphia, and for serving as regular columnist for Bank Director and SmartCEO Magazine. He is a frequent speaker and author for business and financial services organizations nationwide.</p>
 MountainOne Bank  Annual Meeting and Elections
Ron Chandler
<p><span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:rgba(0,0,0,0.9);font-size:14px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;display:inline !important;float:none;font-family:-apple-system, system-ui, BlinkMacSystemFont, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, &quot;Fira Sans&quot;, Ubuntu, Oxygen, &quot;Oxygen Sans&quot;, Cantarell, &quot;Droid Sans&quot;, &quot;Apple Color Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Symbol&quot;, &quot;Lucida Grande&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Visionary digital officer and board director with over 17 years of experience in leading technology and cybersecurity in corporations, professional services firms and educational institutions. A intentional servant leader focused on developing healthy organization cultures, digitally transforming business models and optimizing operational excellence by leveraging advanced enabling technology.</span></span></p>
 Speaker  Banking on Tomorrow: How Massachusetts Banks Win in the AI Era
Steven Dorval
<p>Sr. Innovation Advisor, Mass Bankers Association</p>
 Mass Bankers Association  Breakout Session

Sponsors

Continuing Education

Hotel

Hotel Update – Room Block Sold Out!— Thank You!

The MBA group room block is officially sold out — we’re thrilled to have such a strong response to the Convention! There are a few rooms available on Friday and Saturday. 

Rooms are still available at The Breakers but at prevailing rates.  

If you still need accommodations, don’t worry. There are several fantastic hotels just a short distance from our meeting location:

• The Ben West Palm
• Canopy by Hilton West Palm Beach Downtown 
• Hilton West Palm Beach
• Residence Inn West Palm Beach Downtown
• Palm Beach Historic Inn

We encourage you to book directly with the hotel of your choice, as availability may be limited.

 

Packages

203842