Independent Banker, the award-winning magazine of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) and the number-one source for community banking news, recognized Oakwood Bank, Whitehall, WI, as an ICBA top lender in its July issue. Oakwood Bank's recognition is based on the strength of its competitive banking services and operational efficiencies throughout 2019.

"Through innovation, resourcefulness and an unwavering commitment to their customers and communities, these top lenders are creating a culture of success," ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey said. "ICBA is proud to recognize Oakwood Bank and its staff for their outstanding efforts and wishes them continued prosperity."

The "ICBA's Top Lenders 2020" feature reveals the secret to the success of these community banks, which serve as agricultural, commercial, consumer, and mortgage lenders. It showcases their commitment, ingenuity, and skill in adapting to market dynamics and evolving customer needs.  The annual list is based on the strength of competitive banking services and operational efficiencies using FDIC data for 2019. Scores were determined by combining the average of the bank's percentile ranks for lending concentration and loan growth over the past year in each lending category and asset size, and adjusted for loan charge-offs at specific percentile thresholds.

"Oakwood Bank is honored to be recognized by ICBA for the growth and performance of our community bank," said William J. DeBruyckere, President/CEO, Oakwood Bank. "We are proud to serve our neighbors of Augusta, Eau Claire, Pigeon Falls, and Whitehall and strive every day to build lasting banking relationships that help our customers realize their financial goals and dreams, all while helping our local economy prosper. Our success is a testament to the faith of our customers and the hard work and dedication of our talented employees."