Power in Practice: How Republic Bank is Elevating Women Leaders Across the Financial Landscape

By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photos By Matt Johnson • Sponsored

In an industry where leadership has long skewed male, Republic Bank is shifting the narrative by championing the power of women. Across departments and disciplines, women at Republic Bank are not only thriving, they’re leading, innovating, and driving change for clients and communities alike. 

At the heart of this momentum are women like Jennifer Glassner, Candy Dupree, and Wende Cosby, who each bring a unique perspective to their roles in retail and business banking. Jennifer’s journey spans over two decades, from floating teller to Vice President and Business Banking Officer. Her trajectory is proof of upward mobility when passion and support align. Candy, a Business Development Manager and advocate for community engagement, found her voice at Republic Bank. Through initiatives like the Juneteenth Celebration and financial literacy outreach, she’s helping others rise while building something lasting for herself. Wende Cosby, a seasoned Business Development Manager, values the old-school relationship banking model that still puts people first, meeting clients where they are, with decisions made by people who know the community. 

This community-first mindset runs all throughout the organization and is especially visible in the Commercial Banking division. Women like Kathy Pleasant, Lisa Butcher, Joan Strafer, and Hannah Adams bring both strategic thinking and personalized care to their work, helping businesses, from local ventures to large enterprises, secure the resources they need to grow. 

Kathy Pleasant, Senior Vice President and Director of SBA Lending, created and now leads the SBA department for Republic Bank across five states. Under her guidance, the bank has earned a reputation as a “go-to lender” for SBA-backed financing. Lisa Butcher, a 30-year veteran, transitioned from private banking to commercial real estate lending, helping clients navigate deals that range from multifamily housing to industrial space. Her in-depth institutional knowledge and client responsiveness make her a reliable advisor and dealmaker. 

Joan Strafer brings over three decades of commercial banking experience and uses that insight to tailor solutions that create real, local impact. Meanwhile, Hannah Adams, one of the bank’s emerging leaders, represents the next generation of empowered professionals. In just five years, she’s moved from Associate Banking Officer to AVP, Commercial Banking Officer. 

In Treasury Management, the powerhouse trio of Johanna Wheatley, Casey Wilson, and Jessica Beatty are helping clients streamline operations and mitigate risks while reinforcing the bank’s reputation for trust and innovation. Johanna Wheatley, known for her enthusiastic energy and community engagement, specializes in nonprofit financial solutions and is a leader both inside and outside the bank, serving on multiple boards and mentoring future leaders through civic programs. 

Casey Wilson, with 23 years of tenure, is a true Republic Bank ambassador. Her knowledge and integrity have built lasting trust with clients, and her consultative approach helps businesses thrive with smart, efficient banking solutions. Jessica Beatty, a Certified Treasury Professional with 24 years in the field, brings precision and care to every account she manages, making her a go-to partner for some of the bank’s most complex clients. 

What unites all of these women is the space they’ve been given to lead authentically, to serve thoughtfully, and to grow without having to sacrifice who they are. Republic Bank doesn’t just talk about empowerment; it puts it into practice by investing in its people and creating a culture where diverse perspectives are encouraged, and individual passions are amplified. 

The result? A team of women who don’t just occupy seats at the table, they help build it. They shape policy, set standards, and lift up communities while lifting one another. These women are proof that meaningful progress happens when leadership is inclusive by design. 

In a sector where representation still matters, Republic Bank stands out not just for the number of women in leadership, but for the impact they’re making every day.