VACB members gathered at Hotel Roanoke in early October for the 48th Annual Convention & Trade Show. Attendance was strong, and members were excited to reconnect, explore new ideas, and experience VACB’s proven three-prong convention model: timely banking insights, access to leading industry partners, and exceptional networking opportunities.
This year’s convention committee introduced several new elements to enhance the program. On Sunday, VACB President Corey Connors unveiled the Association’s new Preferred Vendor Program during a reception for Associate Members. Corey outlined how the program works, what participants can expect, and how this new model will elevate engagement and visibility throughout the year.
Sunday evening also brought the debut of themed raffle baskets donated by VACB and the board of directors. With options tailored to golfers, travelers, bourbon fans, and more, the curated baskets were a hit. Ticket sales were brisk during the opening reception, with all proceeds benefiting the VACB Advocacy Fund.
Monday’s business session began with a new, high-energy event: the inaugural Vendor Quick Pitch. Twelve Associate Members participated, each hosting a table where bankers rotated every five minutes to learn about new products, services, and capabilities. Both bankers and vendors gave the session glowing reviews, and this popular format is likely to return in 2026.
Following a final break in the exhibit hall, attendees heard from Revio on how banks can better leverage their data — how to interpret, apply, and align it with strategic priorities. The morning concluded with keynote speaker Julie Austin, who encouraged bankers to embrace disruption and shared innovative approaches to help institutions differentiate themselves and thrive.
On Monday afternoon, attendees had the option to explore Roanoke independently or join the group lunch outing at Six and Sky, a downtown rooftop restaurant known for its excellent food and sweeping views. Those who attended enjoyed both the atmosphere and the camaraderie.
The Chairman’s Celebration on Monday evening took attendees to the old ball field for a relaxed, baseball-themed night of food, games, and fun. Source4 provided custom baseball jerseys, and many added their favorite team’s cap to complete the look. A lively new activity — Heads or Tails — kicked off the evening, with paddle-holding participants narrowing down to one final winner: Beth Beale of Benchmark Community Bank. A baseball-themed dinner, raffle basket drawings, games, and dessert rounded out a memorable and highly social night at the ballpark.
Tuesday began with breakfast and a State of the Association address from President Corey Connors. Corey reviewed the Association’s recent alignment planning exercise, updates to the bylaws, and the year’s accomplishments. Outgoing Chair Tara Harrison was recognized for her leadership during a period of significant transition for the Association.
The second business session opened with an update from former VACB Chair and ICBA Chair-Elect Alice Frazier, who shared the latest developments in Washington, reviewed ICBA’s priority issues, and encouraged attendees to take full advantage of ICBA’s advocacy, resources, and support.
Next, Political Analyst Dr. Bob Holsworth of DecideSmart provided an engaging look at Virginia’s 2025 election cycle, offering context on anticipated trends and outcomes ahead of November’s contests.
The final session of the morning addressed one of the industry’s most persistent challenges: check fraud. ICBA’s Scott Anchin and the FDIC’s Lloyd McIntyre outlined current fraud tactics. They presented 13 actionable steps banks can take to detect, reduce, and prevent check fraud — a timely and practical session for attendees.
The convention concluded with the YHB Grand Prize Drawing, with the winner choosing one of several prize options to be shipped to their home. Luke Gore of YHB was on hand to pull the winner’s name, and this year’s lucky banker was Hope Brown from The Bank of Charlotte County. In her final act as VACB Chair, Tara Harrison officially adjourned the 48th Annual Convention & Trade Show and encouraged all members to make plans now to join VACB at The Boar’s Head Inn in Charlottesville for the 49th Annual Convention.
