Benchmark Community Bank recently announced that Senior Vice President of Retail Banking LeAnne Emert graduated from the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University in Texas, according to a press release.

Emert was one of only seven, out of a class of 60, to graduate with distinction. Each of the top graduates were awarded a scholarship for their financial institution to use towards future employee banking education.

“Celebrating its 59th anniversary this year, the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking has become one of the top banking educational institutions in the country. With an emphasis on financial management, leadership development, and strategic planning, the 3-year program brings into focus and augments the on-the-job experience that students, who are currently in management positions, already have,” according to the release.

Reflecting on her achievement, Emert said, “I’m most appreciative of the investment Benchmark has made in me. Attending the Graduate School of Banking was an extremely valuable experience that gave me a more holistic overview of our industry. It has essentially prepared me for my next steps with Benchmark and has given me additional knowledge to better serve Southside Virginia.”

Benchmark President Jay Stafford expressed his approval by saying, “LeAnne has been an excellent addition to Benchmark’s leadership team and we knew she would do a great job completing the program. Her banking knowledge, work ethic and team-leading skills serve the bank well. It was really no surprise to anyone here that she graduated with distinction.”

Emert has 27 years experience in the banking industry, the last 13 with Benchmark. In October, she was promoted to her current position of senior vice president with responsibility over Benchmark’s 12 Virginia branches. She oversees a retail staff of approximately 100.