At Cleveland State Bank, we believe our greatest asset is our people- and today, we celebrate one of the finest: Janet Behnke, our Vice President of WISCUB Service Center Operations, who is marking an extraordinary milestone- 45 years of dedicated service on Monday, August 4.
It’s hard to put into words just how much Janet has contributed to the growth, culture, and success of our bank. Over the past four and a half decades, Janet has not only witnessed the evolution of our institution- but she’s also helped shape it. Her leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to excellence have made a lasting impact on every team, department, and customer she’s worked with.
Janet began her journey with the bank in 1980, starting as a Client Service Representative and steadily grew through the ranks with remarkable dedication and a deep understanding of operational excellence. From embracing technological changes, to navigating economic shifts, Janet has consistently been a stabilizing force and a forward-thinking leader.
As Mary Ann Vogel (former head of WISCUB Service Center) recalls, “I still remember Janet’s first day at CSB, over four decades ago. Even then, she carried herself with quiet confidence and a spark that told me she was someone special. Watching her journey from those early days to becoming VP of WISCUB Service Center Operations has been nothing short of remarkable. She didn’t just grow with the organization- she helped build it. Her fingerprints are on so many of our milestones, and her presence has always been a steady, trusted force.”
As a valued member of the Executive Management Team and Leadership Team, Janet also plays a critical role in guiding and training the bank’s staff. Her mentorship and guidance have strengthened the bank’s service offerings and internal development for many years. Her mentorship has touched countless lives, as many of our current leader’s credit Janet with inspiring their professional growth.
As Tim Schueler (current president of Cleveland State Bank) states, “For 45 years, Janet has been the steady hand and the heart behind WISCUB Service Center Operations. As VP of WISCUB Service Center Operations, she has led with unwavering dedication, unmatched knowledge, and a deep sense of responsibility to both our team and Wisconsin Credit Unions. Her leadership has shaped not just our systems and processes, but also our culture. WISCUB Service Center is what it is today in large part because of Janet’s lifelong commitment– and we are forever grateful.”
In her current position as VP of WISCUB Service Center Operations, Janet oversees the bank’s WISCUB Operations, which is instrumental in servicing the needs of 24 credit unions across the state. Under her guidance, WISCUB has grown into a trusted and high-performing unit that ensures consistency, accuracy, and reliability across complex financial operations.
Charles Kolb (former CSB President and CEO) reflects on Janet’s last four decades, “I still remember the day we brought Janet on board- there was something special about her even then. From the very beginning, she showed a rare mix of determination, grace, and intelligence. Watching her grow into the role of VP of WISCUB Service Center Operations and become a pillar of this organization has been one of the great privileges of my career. Her legacy is woven into every corner of Cleveland State Bank.”
Janet grew up in Osman, WI and currently resides in Newton, WI with her husband Mel. She has five adult children and seven grandchildren. Janet’s 45 years of service have left an indelible mark on the bank. Her steady leadership and commitment have strengthened core operations, elevated strategic partnerships, and helped shape the future direction of the organization. Her legacy is one of consistency, excellence, and a deep dedication to both people and process- qualities that continue to influence the bank’s culture and performance today. We are proud to celebrate this extraordinary milestone and the invaluable contributions Janet has made over the decades.
Please join us in celebrating Janet’s distinguished dedication to Cleveland State Bank!
