While interest rates and inflation continue to make headlines, a group of Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) students tackled these topics head-on in a national banking competition—gaining practical experience with the financial pressures facing banks. Competing in the Community Bank Case Study Competition hosted by the Conference of State Bank Supervisors, EKU’s team placed in the top 15.
“EKU’s success in the national banking competition is a prime example of how our students and graduates serve communities and work hand in hand with industry partners,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “We’re incredibly proud of our team advancing to the second round of the competition and showcasing the application of knowledge toward solving some of the economy’s most complex challenges.”
This year, EKU’s team partnered with Traditional Bank and its CEO, Andy Baker. The team researched the impact of interest rates and inflation on banking and developed a plan for branch strategy, technology and regulatory burden. A group of four EKU students submitted a research case study paper and video as part of the competition.
“This competition offers students valuable, real-world exposure to the banking sector while providing community banks an opportunity to highlight their critical roles within local economies,” said Baker. “It invites undergraduate students from diverse academic backgrounds to partner with local community banks to conduct detailed case studies on relevant banking issues.”
Adam McCune, business finance major from Montgomery County, Kentucky, participated on the team, completing the final analysis and the regulatory burden portions of the paper. Getting hands-on experience while networking with banking professionals was the selling point for McCune competing.
“It has given me some great contacts at Traditional Bank. It has also given me an experience to mention during interviews when they ask if I worked on a team,” said McCune. “I made some friends with classmates that I probably wouldn’t have gotten the chance to know as closely as I do now.”
EKU’s team for the 2025 Community Bank Case Study Competition included students McCune; Dalton Cox from Bardstown, Kentucky; Reed Neuman from Campbellsburg, Kentucky; Wesley Rice from Richmond, Kentucky; and Faculty Advisor Dr. Maggie Abney.
McCune encourages other students to participate in the competition next year. His advice: “Don’t be afraid to reach out to the bank that you are partnered with to ask questions.”
EKU offers a bachelor’s degree in finance, as well as a banking and financial services certificate and a first-of-its-kind financial technology and cybercrime certificate.
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