Iowa Bankers Association Announces Launch of Foundation

Iowa Bankers Foundation to enhance industry’s community impact across the state

JOHNSTON, Iowa (Sept. 22, 2026) — This week, the Iowa Bankers Association (IBA) officially announced the launch of the Iowa Bankers Foundation. The foundation will enhance the industry’s community impact across the state.

Iowa’s banking industry is rooted in community. With over 250 banks throughout the state, Iowa communities, large and small, are supported by a bank. In Iowa, banks safeguard $138 billion in deposits and lend over $110 billion to help individuals, business owners and agriculture. Beyond providing financing, Iowa bankers give their time, expertise and financial resources to the communities they serve.

“We are excited to build on the banking industry’s commitment to strengthening local communities,” said Jenica Lensmeyer, Iowa Bankers Foundation executive director and IBA vice president of marketing and industry relations. “Whether you’re buying your first home, fundraising for a community project, or planning for retirement, your local bank is a trusted partner. Through the foundation, we can expand on that commitment.”

The Iowa Bankers Foundation will work to strengthen financial literacy and entrepreneurship, support homeownership, build and strengthen the workforce, and support communities through hardships such as natural disasters and catastrophic events.

Serving on the inaugural 2026-27 Iowa Bankers Foundation board are:

• Jim Plagge, retired CEO of Bank Iowa in West Des Moines, will serve as chair.
• Gabe Olson, at West Bank in West Des Moines, will serve as vice chair.
• Adam Gregg, IBA president and CEO, will serve as secretary/treasurer.
• Emily Abbas, at Bankers Trust in Des Moines, will serve as board member.
• Kris Ausborn, retired CEO of Iowa Trust in Clive, will serve as board member.
• Luke Donnenwerth, at Bank Midwest in Spirit Lake, will serve as board member.
• Abram Tubbs, at Ohnward Bancshares, Inc. in Maquoketa, will serve as board member.
• Alisha Duehn, at First Iowa State Bank in Keosauqua, will serve as board member.
• Julie Lanning, at Northwest Bank in Creston, will serve as board member.
• Ron Hansen, at Liberty Trust & Savings Bank in Durant, will serve as board member.

“Every day brings an opportunity to help our communities succeed,” said Jim Plagge, Iowa Bankers Foundation chair. “The Iowa Bankers Foundation will support worthy causes and demonstrate the generosity and civic spirit of Iowa’s banking community.”

For more information, visit the website.