Florida Banking August/September 2024

“The skills I acquired through the Juris Master program in Financial Regulation and Compliance at Florida State University have enhanced my effectiveness in my banking career. The courses I completed provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory landscape and its practical applications within the banking industry,” Refford said. “The Governance, Risk Management and Compliance course emphasized the importance of robust governance structures and ethical leadership. This has enabled me to contribute to strengthening and fostering a culture of compliance throughout the bank’s loan operations department. The Juris Master program has provided me with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of financial regulation, further enhancing my ability to contribute to the bank’s success and compliance culture.” The Florida Bankers Educational Foundation (FBEF) Board of Trustees was pleased to be able to approve Refford for funding to help offset the costs associated with her graduate degree. When asked about her experience applying for FBEF funding, Refford said, “I had a very positive experience with the FBEF Scholarship Program. The application process was straightforward and user-friendly. Throughout the process, I was kept informed about the status of my application and, upon being awarded, the funding was disbursed quickly. Additionally, the scholarship assisted with tuition costs after the tuition reimbursement

Working to advance your career through education? The FBEF is here to help. FBEF funding applications are accepted throughout the year, with application deadlines of November 1, March 1 and June 1. Applications and eligibility information can be found online at FloridaBankers.com/FBEF. If you are think ing of applying for FBEF funding, please con tact FBEF Director Letty Newton at (850) 701 3522 or lnewton@floridabankers.com for more information on how the FBEF can help you. The FBEF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corpora tion registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, Registration #CH7621. Contributions to the FBEF are tax deductible. Organized in 1956, the FBEF contin ues to help bankers throughout Florida today. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 800-435-7352 WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. www.FloridaConsumerHelp.com

benefit my bank offered had been fully utilized, further easing my financial burden. This comprehensive support made my decision to further my education much easier.” Refford encourages other bankers to apply for FBEF funding: “The FBEF Scholarship provided financial support for my education, which allowed me the opportunity to develop advanced competencies that are highly valued in the banking industry while better preparing me for future leadership roles. The most powerful way to enhance your skills, knowledge, and professional growth is to invest in your education.”

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