Better Banks is proud to recognize Tera Backlund, Assistant Vice President of Innovation & Strategic Development, for graduating from the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin–Madison (GSB), one of the nation's premier leadership development and executive education programs for banking professionals.

Throughout the prestigious 25-month graduate banking program, participants develop the strategic perspective, financial expertise, and leadership skills needed to navigate today's rapidly evolving banking environment and help position their institutions for long-term success.

Diplomas were awarded during GSB's commencement ceremony on Thursday, August 6, in Madison, Wisconsin, including a GSB diploma and a Certificate of Executive Leadership from the Wisconsin School of Business Center for Professional and Executive Development.

Backlund serves as Assistant Vice President of Innovation & Strategic Development for Backlund Investment Company, the holding company for Better Banks and State Street Bank & Trust. She has been with the organization for nine years and serves as a director of Backlund Investment Company, Better Banks, and State Street Bank & Trust. She joined the Better Banks Board of Directors in January 2022.

Professionally, Backlund has served on the Community Bankers Association of Illinois Legislation & Regulation Committee and is a founding member of the Independent Community Bankers of America's AI Committee.