Oak Bank: Bob Gorsuch Celebrates 60 Years in Banking

For Immediate Release

Contact: 
Karen Virnoche
608.441.6000
kvirnoche@oak.bank

WBA PHOTOS FOR DOWNLOAD

Bob Gorsuch Celebrates 60 Years in Banking
Oak Bank’s Founder, Madison area’s longest-serving bank executive, receives recognition from the Wisconsin Banking Association.

Fitchburg, WI – 1964. It was the year the Beatles released their first U.S. album; Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. received the Nobel Peace Prize, and Bob Gorsuch started his career in banking.

While the first two are certainly well-known moments in American history, Gorsuch is leaving his own mark in Wisconsin as one of just two bankers to achieve 60 years in banking this year and one of just twenty-seven bankers to reach the milestone in the state since 1990, according to the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA). Gorsuch is also the Madison area’s longest-serving bank executive.

WBA recently honored Gorsuch for his 60-year milestone and contributions to the industry and community during a special luncheon at the largest banking industry event in the state, the WBA Bank Executives Conference.

“The expertise gained and contributions made over the course of six decades are truly invaluable,” said Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO. “It is an honor to congratulate Bob Gorsuch on this extraordinary career achievement.”

“I tell people if you hang around long enough, pretty soon these types of accolades will knock on your door,” laughed Gorsuch. “Of course, I am honored to be recognized. I love coming to Oak Bank and helping people start a business, buy a home or car, take out a student loan, whatever the case. It’s truly been a joy.”

After three years of active duty with the U.S. Army, Gorsuch began his banking career in his home state of Michigan with a part-time banking job while in college. He moved to Madison in 1975, where he began a 24-year stint as Park Bank’s president. In the fall of 2000, Gorsuch ventured out on his own and started Oak Bank. Today, while many area banks have merged, Oak Bank is thriving as an independent, locally owned, and operated community bank in Fitchburg.

“I can drive into a small town, and I can tell how good the bank is,” said Gorsuch. “I think a strong, healthy community gets its roots from the local bank. If the bank ownership and employees are genuinely involved in the community and support things like libraries and parks, the community has the foundation for being vibrant and healthy. I am very proud that Oak Bank has been able to stay independent at a time when many banks are merging and possibly leaving behind their connections to the community.”

As an active member of the Fitchburg and surrounding Dane County communities, Gorsuch has served on boards and committees, gives to local charities, hosts events he’s passionate about, and inspires his associates to do the same.

“Bob has realized his vision of building a successful community bank that helps local businesses grow and prosper, and families reach their financial dreams,” said Terry Taylor, Oak Bank President.  “Bob is passionate about banking and serving the needs of our local community.  We are all thankful for the opportunity to work with Bob and congratulate him on all that he has accomplished.” 

“Bob’s six decades in banking have been more than a profession; they’ve been a steadfast commitment to our community’s well-being,” said Jason Adamany, Adesys Founder and President and Oak Bank board member. “As founder of Oak Bank, his dedication has been the foundation of financial integrity. Yet, it’s Bob’s genuine kindness and supportive words that truly define his character.”

What does Gorsuch want his and Oak Bank’s legacy to be?

“It’s all about the people, and we’ve got some of the best,” said Gorsuch. “Several people at Oak Bank have been here from the beginning, and that’s unusual, and it makes us special. I have tried to lead by example and show that we need to care for and about each other. I think caring can make the difference in how successful your business is, how happy your team is, and that leads to great customer care and a better community.”

About Oak Bank
Oak Bank has been deeply rooted in the Fitchburg community and Madison area for 24 years, meeting the financial needs of homeowners and businesses by offering top-notch service, quick answers, and creative solutions, all while supporting over 125 local nonprofits each year. Visit oak.bank to learn more.

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UW Health: Opportunity for Businesses to Show Appreciation for Nurses

UW Health partners with Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce to encourage discounts for all community RNs in May 2024

UW Health is proud to partner with the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce to encourage member businesses to consider offering discounts to nurses in our community during National Nurses Week, May 6-12, or throughout the month of May.

Nurses Week poses a unique opportunity for local businesses to show their appreciation for all the highly valued nurses in our community who make a difference in the lives of patients, families and the community, every day. This opportunity would allow chamber member businesses to thank all nurses during this special time.

“UW Health nurses appreciate getting to experience a local business or enjoy a meal at a restaurant in their community. In the past, discounts have encouraged nurses to try new places. Nurses know they are receiving the support of the local community and know they can show their appreciation for this by using the discounts to order food or shop at a new store,” states Kelli Susee, ADN, RN, Chair-Elect of the UW Health Nursing Recognition Council.

If your business is able to offer a discount to nurses from May 6-12 or throughout the month of May, please send your information or questions to: Bethany Steindl, MSN, RN, CPN, UW Health Nurses Week Committee Member and Pediatric Perioperative Services Nurse Manger, at bsteindl@uwhealth.org or 608-890-6834 by Friday, April 19.  UW Health will share the final list of participating businesses on their intra-net. We encourage you to share your discounts on your website to make all community nurses aware of these local discounts.

We hope you consider this opportunity to show your business’s support of community nurses while enjoying some added exposure for your business among thousands of nurses.

Entrepreneur, Award-Winning Actor Danny Trejo to Speak on Reshaping Destiny at Wisconsin Union Directorate Event March 20 

MADISON – Entrepreneur and actor Danny Trejo will share his story of fighting addiction and changing his destiny at Shannon Hall in Memorial Union March 20 at 7 p.m. at a Wisconsin Union Directorate (WUD) Distinguished Lecture Series (DLS) Committee-hosted free lecture.

The event, titled ”Reshaping Destiny: An Evening With Danny Trejo,” will feature a 60-minute moderated Q&A followed by a 30-minute audience Q&A. The event is free, but tickets are required. Current University of Wisconsin-Madison students may register for tickets on Feb. 26 at 2 p.m. Students will require a promo code, which they will receive via email, to acquire their ticket. Any remaining tickets will become available to the general public on Feb. 27 at 2 p.m., with a limit of two tickets per person. Ticket registration for the event will be available here. 

Known for his work in films such as “Machete,” “Heat” and “Spy Kids,” Trejo’s acting career spans over 40 years. The actor has also appeared in iconic TV series such as “Baywatch,” “Breaking Bad” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” and has been a voice actor in films including “Storks” and “The Book of Life.” 

After facing addiction and imprisonment at a young age, Trejo is also recognized for his ongoing advocacy for addiction recovery and sobriety, sharing his personal story in his New York Times-bestselling 2021 autobiography “My Life of Crime, Redemption and Hollywood.” 

In addition to his work on the screen, Trejo started Trejo’s Tacos, a collection of Los Angeles-based restaurants providing inclusive food options, such as gluten-free and vegan, alongside traditional Mexican dishes. He is also the founder of Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts.

Following the opening of his first restaurant in 2016, Trejo authored cookbooks “Trejo’s Tacos: Recipes and Stories from L.A.” and “Trejo’s Cantina: Cocktails, Snacks, and Amazing Non-Alcoholic Drinks from the Heart of Hollywood.”

“Everything good that’s ever happened in my life has come as a direct result of helping someone else and not expecting anything in return,” Trejo said in his autobiography.

The WUD DLS Committee brings engaging and influential people to the UW–Madison campus to encourage thought-provoking conversations. WUD includes 12 committees and six Wisconsin Hoofers clubs that program thousands of events each year.

UW–Madison students interested in becoming a leader of the WUD DLS Committee – or any WUD committee or club – during the 2024-2025 academic year may apply online. WUD student leaders may be eligible for reimbursement of the equivalent of up to 80% of in-state tuition. Applications for WUD directors and summer coordinator positions close March 1.

Patrons can learn more about the upcoming free talk featuring Trejo here.

Cousins Subs Opens New Location in Stoughton

Cousins Subs announces the opening of its newest location in Stoughton, Wis., on Monday, February 19. This marks the second store the brand will open in the area in 2024, reflecting its commitment to serving local communities and continuing to reinvest in the Madison area. With 92 locations, including 54 corporately owned establishments, Cousins Subs continues to expand its footprint, bringing its renowned deli fresh and grilled-to-order subs to the Stoughton community.

The 1,900 square-foot restaurant, located at 1432 US-51, Stoughton, WI 53589, boasts a full-service drive-thru, seating for 32 guests, and the brand’s distinctive ‘Milwaukee Sub Shop’ ambiance. Adorned with natural wood, stone and metal accents, the décor reflects Cousins Subs’ commitment to its cuisine philosophy, rich history, and community engagement, exemplified through its Make It Better Foundation. Digital menu boards enhance the overall dining experience.

Cousins Subs’ extensive menu, featuring deli-fresh subs and made-to-order sides, will be available for dine-in, drive-thru, pick-up and delivery. Catering orders can conveniently be placed through the Cousins Subs website. Customers enrolled in Cousins Club, the brand’s point-based loyalty program, will earn one point for every $1 spent, both online and in-store.

In keeping with its dedication to the Stoughton community, Cousins Subs aims to contribute to the local economy by creating job opportunities and actively participating in the area’s growth and development. The restaurant, open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., is currently seeking enthusiastic team members who can enjoy flexible schedules, complimentary meals, and next-day pay in a welcoming, family-friendly work environment. Interested applicants are invited to visit www.work4cousins.com.

“Opening our doors in Stoughton isn’t just about subs; it’s about commitment,” says Justin McCoy, vice president of marketing at Cousins Subs. “We’re here to serve fresh, flavorful food while supporting the local community and making meaningful connections with our guests.”

As Cousins Subs becomes an integral part of the Stoughton neighborhood, the brand looks forward to fostering meaningful connections with residents and supporting the communities it serves.

Summit Named One of America’s Top Credit Unions

Newsweek Magazine rankings based on member feedback and institution’s financial health

February 14, 2024 (Madison, WI) – Newsweek Magazine’s 2024 list of America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions included Madison-based Summit Credit Union as one of the top 250 credit unions. The rankings were based on a mix of consumer/member input and financial performance and stability factors.

“We’re honored to be included among Newsweek’s top credit unions, not only because it is based in part on reviews by our own members, but also because our financial strength and stability was part of the award criteria,” said Kim Sponem, CEO & President of Summit Credit Union. “Newsweek’s team looked at factors such as our financial reserves and ability to absorb economic downturns, strong lending activity, and reputation in making this group of America’s best credit unions.”

Newsweek partnered with research company Plant A Insights Group to compile the list based on an analysis of the financial health and stability of 9,440 institutions, 35,000 customer interviews and more than 149 million online reviews and applied a rigorous methodology to their selection process.

“As financial cooperatives owned by their members, [credit unions] foster a sense of shared ownership and responsibility. This unique structure translates into a commitment to the financial well-being of its members, often resulting in lower fees, competitive interest rates, and a more flexible approach to lending,” said Nancy Cooper, Newsweek’s global editor-in-chief.

About Summit Credit Union
Established in 1935, Summit Credit Union is a member-owned financial cooperative. Summit holds 6.9 billion in assets and has more than 255,500 members and 954 employees across 57 locations throughout Wisconsin. Since 2002, Kim Sponem has been CEO & President of Summit Credit Union, formerly known as CUNA Credit Union/Great Wisconsin Credit Union.

Recognized for its excellence in employee engagement, in 2021, 2022 and 2023 Summit was named both a Top Workplace in the USA by Top Workplaces USA and a Top Workplace in the Madison area by the Wisconsin State Journal. In 2023 it has added a Top Workplace award in Milwaukee by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

For more information, visit www.summitcreditunion.com or call 608-243-5000 or 800-236-5560.