We Are Northwestern Bank, Where People Matter
bank employees and long-time residents of Chippewa Falls share their thoughts on the city they call home
Ever wonder where the locals go? We reached out to the Northwestern Bank team to ask why they enjoy being in the Chippewa Falls community and what they feel makes their community a fun place to live. Located on Bridge Street since 1904, Northwestern Bank has proudly served the Chippewa Falls area for over a century. The bank's team shared their reasons for considering it a unique and valued part of the community. Check out their thoughts and recommendations!
Jamie Leibrandt
Role: Market President
Fun Fact: Makes the best Pasta Gravy around (according to his kids)
Why Chippewa Falls & Northwestern Bank?
“Chippewa Falls is a great place to raise a family and I feel lucky we moved here to raise ours. I saw how much Northwestern Bank did in the community and was excited to start at the bank. The team strives to act with integrity each day; doing what’s right for the community. Our culture at the bank has always emphasized building a stronger community where people matter and we will continue to do that into the future.”
Jamie recommends visiting Casper Park
“I’m on the board of trustees for the Thorpe Foundation, whose sole purpose is to give funds to Irvine Park. While Irvine Park is a gem, I must recommend Casper Park. The park holds so many memories of spending summer evenings watching my kids play softball — I was even in a league there once. If someone is looking for a fun afternoon with the family, just grab the cooler, some friends, and head for the park for a game of softball.”
Tracey Smiskey
Role: Market President – Eau Claire (and long time Chippewa resident)
Fun Fact: Throughout her life, she has explored 21 of the United States' National Parks
Why Chippewa Falls & Northwestern Bank?
“It’s been wonderful raising a family here and to become a part of this community. Family and community have always been important to me and it’s neat to see my personal values and my employer’s values align. By giving back in community service with friends and neighbors, I see the impact the bank can have.”
Tracey recommends spending a day in Erickson Park
“Erickson park is my favorite spot. If someone was visiting for a day they should walk down through the park over by the dam and see the wildflowers along the trail and the peaceful pond. It’s a great place to relax and wander with a cup of coffee or the family.”
Michele Koch
Role: Chief Operations Officer (celebrating 41 years at NB!)
Fun Fact: With five active beehives, she dedicates her spare time to beekeeping
Why Chippewa Falls & Northwestern Bank?
“Working here in Chippewa Falls I enjoy getting to know people. It’s fun to see customers and be able to say hello and ask after their family or business. It’s a great community where you genuinely get to know people and I think that is what builds a strong community.”
Michele recommends Irvine Park with a side of Ice Cream
“I like to park by the zoo and walk through looking at all the cute animals. The bear is my favorite. Sometimes he is in his hammock relaxing. Afterwards I go for ice cream and get a turtle waffle cone. It’s truly the best way to spend an afternoon.”
Mike Farrow
Role: AVP Business Banker
Fun Fact: This guy is a car enthusiast (like big time)
Why Chippewa Falls & Northwestern Bank?
“Working at Northwestern Bank, I get to interact with local businesses through work and volunteering. It’s fun connecting with the community whether it's handing out candy during the annual trick-or-treating event or volunteering with the Chippewa Falls Chamber of Commerce events to help connect businesses and highlight them in the community.”
Mike recommends the Bridge Street Car Shows
“Someone coming to Chippewa Falls in the summer time should see one of the car shows held downtown. The entire street is blocked off by the city, becoming a showcase for classic cars spanning a variety of eras and models. My favorite part is walking up and down the street and talking with the owners. It’s fun to hear what makes their car special in their eyes.”
Nicole Nelson
Role: Chippewa Falls Branch Lead
Fun Fact: Hasn’t missed a Northern Wisconsin State Fair since 2010
Why Chippewa Falls & Northwestern Bank?
“The bank gives back to so many (causes, places and people) — it makes my family want to attend and give back when we can. Whenever possible, I try to volunteer at events the bank is a part of like Oktoberfest, the Farmer Appreciation Dinner and Sleep in Heavenly Peace bed build.”
Nicole recommends summer days at Riverfront Park
“If you’re coming to town I think Riverfront Park is a great place to go. In the summertime, I often bring my entire family to Music at the Riverfront. They have great music and food trucks. The kids always seem to make new friends, play tag, and chase each other around the park.”
Greg Misfeldt
Role: VP Business Banker
Fun Fact: Has been a Special Olympics basketball coach for over 20 years
Why Chippewa Falls & Northwestern Bank?
“Giving back is part of the culture at the bank and they truly strive to support activities that are good for the community. They encourage us to find the types of volunteer roles that we enjoy and then support our involvement. I think that this type of generosity helps our community stay strong and a great place to live.”
Greg recommends events at the fairgrounds
“Springfest, Oktoberfest, the Northern Wisconsin State Fair – there are so many great events taking place at the fairgrounds. Each has great entertainment and brings so much to the community. Springfest, for instance, returns all money raised to the community through grants. Having these fun events alongside all the parks in the city, and the people really makes this community special.”
Visit northwesternbank.com or follow them on social media (@northwesternbankwisconsin) to see more of the bank's community involvement. Stop into any branch location to learn about financial options for your business, your family and yourself. Member FDIC.
Northwestern Bank
Phone (Chippewa Falls location): (715) 723-4461
Address (Chippewa Falls location): 202 N. Bridge St.
Online: northwesternbank.com
