[Albuquerque, New Mexico] – On Wednesday, July 12, the National Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders (NAGGL) proudly celebrated the successful graduation of the 2022-2023 Future Leading Lenders (FLL) cohort. This one-year interactive program, designed to cultivate the next generation of 7(a) industry leadership, witnessed the transformation of ten outstanding 7(a) lending professionals from across the country.

The Future Leading Lenders program aims to equip participants with a comprehensive skill set and in-depth knowledge of the 7(a) industry, alongside a broader understanding of federal programs’ creation and operation. Throughout the year, the FLLs participated in virtual courses, workshops, and live events, fostering a supportive community of peers and mentorship from senior industry professionals outside the participants’ institutions. The program also focused on honing essential written and verbal presentation skills and provided practical approaches to policy, advocacy, and program innovation. This knowledge was demonstrated publicly throughout the year on various WEBExpress and conference panels, as well as in NAGGL’s 7(a) Industry Review – Edition II, a compilation of articles written by the Future Leading Lenders.

The 2022-2023 Future Leading Lenders cohort exhibited exceptional commitment and dedication to the program. They successfully navigated a challenging and rewarding journey, and their achievements were celebrated at the recent graduation ceremony. NAGGL congratulates each participant in this year’s FLL cohort:

  • Elizabeth Bastedo, Venturus, a division of Tandem Bank
  • Nicole Batista, Centier Bank
  • Jodi Ehrenberger, Coulee Bank
  • Kristie Falcioni, Live Oak Bank
  • Ryan Fritz, Commerce Bank
  • Lilly Frost, Frost Bank
  • Jacqueline Lisenby Holland, United Community Bank
  • David Long, Umpqua Bank
  • Brian McCarthy, Bank of Houston
  • Denise Mlynarick, M&T Bank

NAGGL expresses heartfelt appreciation to the mentors, instructors, and industry leaders who contributed their expertise and guidance, fostering an environment of learning and growth.

For more information about NAGGL’s Future Leading Lenders program and other initiatives, please visit NAGGL.ORG/FLL.