Bill Sennholz Named to WBA Leaders in Banking Excellence

William (Bill) Sennholz 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 Bill and the meaningful impact he made through his leadership, service, and commitment to Wisconsin’s communities,” said Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO. “Bill’s induction into the Leaders in Banking Excellence recognizes a career defined by integrity and dedication to our industry and the communities he serves.”

Bill Sennholz (left) accepts his Leaders in Banking Excellence award from WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels at a ceremony held in Madison, Wis.

Sennholz has dedicated nearly 40 years to Wisconsin banking. He has built a distinguished career marked by institutional growth and strong leadership. His career has included leadership roles with Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago, Clarke County State Bank, Peoples State Bank, M&I First American Bank, and finally Forward Bank, where he serves as chief executive officer and director.

Under Sennholz’s leadership, Forward Bank has grown from a regional operation to a $1.2 billion enterprise with 16 locations and over 250 employees. Sennholz successfully led 15 acquisitions (bank, insurance and investment), reimagined the bank’s brand, diversified earnings, and introduced employee incentive and retention programs that serve as a testament to his investment in people. His career-long commitment to serving both his staff and customers earned Forward Bank repeated recognition as one of the Best Banks to Work For.

Sennholz’s dedication to improving his industry extends beyond his own institution. Sennholz served for a decade on the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago Board of Directors, including terms as both chairman and vice chairman. His industry knowledge has further strengthened banking in his own state through his service on the Wisconsin Bankers Association Board of Directors from 2023–2026.

Sennholz dedicates his time and expertise to organizations that improve the quality of life across central Wisconsin. His leadership has supported health care initiatives, YMCA programs, and economic development organizations. Sennholz embodies visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to Wisconsin banking. He has built a legacy of growth, philanthropy, and service that continues to strengthen Forward Bank and its surrounding community

Also honored in the Class of 2026 Leaders in Banking Excellence honorees were the late Travis Holt, Citizens State Bank of Loyal and Russ Kuehn, Fortifi Bank, Berlin. To read the bios of each of the 2026 Leaders in Banking Excellence honorees, please visit https://www.wisbank.com/community/excellence/.

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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.