Jim Caldwell (center) was presented with a 60-Year Club award by Paul Northway (left), president and CEO of American National Bank Fox Cities and the 2025–2026 WBA Chair, and Rose Oswald Poels (right), WBA president and CEO, at the 2026 WBA Bank Executives Conference.
James Caldwell from First Citizens State Bank has been honored with a 60-Year Club Award by the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA). This award recognizes exceptional dedication to Wisconsin’s banking industry. “Few achievements speak more powerfully than a career defined by six decades of service,” said Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO. “We are honored to celebrate Jim whose enduring commitment has left an indelible mark on Wisconsin’s banking industry.” Caldwell is a DeForest High School graduate and attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he earned his bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics and his master’s degree in business. He began his career with his first job out of college at First Wisconsin National Bank of Milwaukee, now known as US Bank. After working at First Wisconsin for over eight years, he was employed by the board of directors of First Citizens State Bank on October 1, 1974 as its executive V.P. and was promoted to president in 1979. In 2017, Caldwell transitioned from president & CEO to CEO as Nate Parrish was promoted to president. Caldwell continues to work closely with customers, city leaders, and numerous organizations to strengthen and enrich the communities the bank serves. His passion for CRA (Community Reinvestment Act), business development, community development, and the personal development of his staff and community members is evident every day — shown through the relationships he builds and the advocacy and guidance he provides. Caldwell was recognized during a special luncheon at the largest banking industry event in the state, the WBA Bank Executives Conference. This year’s event took place on February 5, 2026, in Wisconsin Dells. About the Wisconsin Bankers Association Founded in 1892, the Wisconsin Bankers Association is the state’s largest financial industry trade association, representing 180 commercial banks and savings institutions, their branches, and nearly 30,000 employees. The Association represents banks of all sizes in Wisconsin, and 96 percent of banks in the state are WBA members. Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Wisconsin Bankers Association. |
