Marquette Business’ Commercial Banking Program has joined the American Bankers Association as an academic partner, further strengthening the college’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers in an evolving industry.
Through the partnership, Marquette Business students and faculty will gain enhanced access to ABA resources, including industry insights, professional development opportunities and connections to a nationwide network of banking professionals. The affiliation supports the Commercial Banking Program’s continued focus on combining rigorous business education with practical, industry-informed learning.
“Commercial banking is a relationship-driven industry that requires strong technical expertise, sound judgment and a deep understanding of clients’ needs,” says Alexandra Hottinger, director of the Commercial Banking Program. “Our academic partnership with the American Bankers Association creates immersive opportunities for our students to engage with the profession, learn from industry leaders and build the capabilities needed to contribute from day one.”
The ABA is the voice of the nation’s banking industry, representing banks of all sizes and charters. As an academic partner, the Commercial Banking Program will connect its students more closely to professional resources and conversations shaping the industry, including credit analysis, relationship management, risk, lending, financial technology and the changing needs of businesses and communities.
Marquette’s Commercial Banking Program offers students a focused pathway into the field of financial services, which is facing an increasing talent gap. Through coursework and applied learning opportunities, students develop the analytical, communication and relationship-management skills necessary to help businesses access capital, manage financial complexity and pursue growth. The ABA partnership will complement the program’s existing emphasis on career readiness and employer engagement.
“This partnership reflects the value of bringing education and industry closer together,” Hottinger says. “We are expanding the ways Marquette Business can help students connect classroom learning to the real challenges and opportunities they will encounter in commercial banking careers.”
The collaboration also reinforces Marquette Business’s broader mission to develop ethical, collaborative and purpose-driven business leaders. Grounded in Marquette’s Catholic, Jesuit values, the Commercial Banking Program prepares graduates to apply their talents in service of organizations, communities and the common good.
For more information about Marquette’s Commercial Banking Program, click here.
