Maple Lake, MN – November 5, 2025 – Star Bank is pleased to announce that the bank’s President & CEO, Katie Wahlquist, has been honored among the 2025 Top Women in Finance by Finance & Commerce.
Finance & Commerce is inducting Katie into their “Circle of Excellence” for this award because this is the second time Katie has been selected as an honoree. She was first elected as one of the Top Women in Finance in 2019.
Finance & Commerce recognizes women who are shaping the finance industry and making an impact within their own communities by breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of women leaders. This year’s class honors 37 remarkable women. Women in finance are recognized for their professional accomplishments, their leadership in the community, and their commitment to their profession. An outside panel of experts reviewed the nominations and helped make the selections.
Star Bank is a family-owned independent community bank with 11 offices in Minnesota and $460 million in assets. Katie joined Star Bank more than 15 years ago and has been an integral part of the bank’s executive team by leading key areas such as marketing, human resources, strategy, and community relations. Katie transitioned from her role as chief administrative officer to the bank’s president and chief executive officer in July 2024.
In addition to serving Star Bank as the chief executive, Katie also serves on several boards including the Minnesota Bankers Association (MBA); The American Red Cross Minnesota & Dakotas Region; Transforming Resources; MidWest Bancorporation, Inc; Star Bank; the Breck School Alumni Council; and the Friends of Traditional Banking (FOTB) Banker Board. Katie is passionate about mentoring the next generation of community bank leaders and helping employees understand their strengths so they may achieve their greatest potential.
Katie and Star Bank will be profiled in an upcoming edition of Finance & Commerce and celebrated at an awards event in Minneapolis on November 13.