T he Oregon Bank Leadership Symposium brought together more than 160 attendees in downtown Eugene for two days of learning, networking, celebrations and annual awards. You can read about many of these activities throughout this edition of Banking Matters. The collegial atmosphere fostered meaningful connections—both old and new—and the program offered something for everyone. Attendees explored panel discussions on commercial banking and Oregon’s business climate, engaged with keynote sessions on the economy, technology, and leadership, and participated in breakout sessions covering crime trends, cybersecurity, legal risks and the 2024 elections. A standout moment for many was the closing keynote by Captain Greg Wooldridge, former commander of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels—the world's premier military aviation demonstration team. Capt. Wooldridge shared insights from his time leading the Blue Angels, emphasizing one simple yet powerful message: “Glad to be here.” In his discussion on leadership principles, Capt. Wooldridge highlighted the importance of post-performance debriefs for continuous improvement. He explained how the Blue Angels team debriefed together immediately after every air show demonstration, ensuring that feedback was shared while every detail remained fresh. Each team member was required to speak during the debrief, beginning and ending their comments with the phrase “glad to be here.” The phrase, as used by the Blue Angels, conveyed both gratitude and personal accountability. To everyone who attended and contributed to the success of this year’s Symposium, thank you. And for those who couldn’t make it, be sure to save the date for next year’s event: December 11-12, 2025, in Portland. OREGON BANK LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM 26 Winter 2025 • BANKING MATTERS
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