Kathy Branton, vice president and a commercial loan officer with First Federal Bank, has been a partner of the Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corp. for many years.
A member of WWBIC’s loan committee for the past two years, Branton also regularly refers loan clients to the organization so they can receive access to coaching and mentoring, said Michael Hetzel, director of lending for WWBIC.
Branton helps lead First Federal Bank’s efforts to support family-owned and small businesses and nonprofit organizations. She uses the Small Business Administration, community business partners and other government programs to support underserved small businesses. She helped more than 350 local businesses obtain access to Payroll Protection Program loans during the COVID-19 pandemic.
She also volunteers with the Waukesha Rotary Club and other area nonprofits.
“Kathy is a visible example of the impact that a trusted banker can make in the community,” Hetzel said.
