CBM Recognition Awards

Best of Community Banking and Rising Star Awards

Each year, the CBM accepts nominations for the “Best of Community Banking” and “Rising Star” awards. The Best of Community Banking award is for a President, CEO or Chairman who exemplifies what it means to be a community banker through leadership at the bank, and within the banking industry and their community.

The Rising Star award recognizes exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to their bank and community and are continuing to grow in their career. These individuals are not the president or CEO but have great potential as a future leader. 

If you know of a banker who deserves to be recognized, please consider nominating them for one of these prestigious awards. The 2026 deadline for nominations is June 30 and the award recipients will be recognized at the CBM Annual Convention & Expo in Traverse City this September.

2025 Best of Community Banking Recipients

Doug Ouellette
Doug Ouellette
Mercantile Bank
David Williams
David Williams
Upper Peninsula State Bank

2025 Rising Star Recipients

Kelsey Bailey
Kelsey Bailey
First National Bank of Michigan
Matt DeFinis
Matt DeFinis
Oxford Bank
Alex Smith
Alex Smith
Chelsea State Bank