Port Washington State Bank and the Wisconsin Bankers Association believe in honoring dedication and commitment. In 2024, we recognize seven exceptional individuals who have each dedicated three or more decades of their careers to the banking industry. Their contributions have been invaluable to both our bank and the community.

“Our bank has been fortunate to have such dedicated employees who have not only been a part of our growth but have also served their communities,” said James Schowalter, President/COO of PWSB. “These individuals have set a high standard of excellence, and we are deeply grateful for their contributions. Their combined 263 years of service are a testament to their passion for the industry and the people they serve.”

Honoring Our Long-Serving Employees

The following team members were recognized this year:

Ron Knaus, VP/Branch Manager/Business Development Officer, 45 years of service
Ron’s expertise and leadership have been a cornerstone of our retail and business operations since 2015. Ron worked at a variety of other banks dating back to 1979! Ron served as a branch manager in both Port Washington and now Thiensville, and is also the bank’s business development manager.

Donna Wendlandt, Deposit Operations Specialist, 42 years of service 
Donna’s career began at Port Washington State Bank during her college years. Upon graduation she spent time with other banks until seven years ago when she rejoined PWSB in 2017. Donna’s compassion and dedication to her work have made her a valuable part of our deposit operations team.

Lynne Melchert, BSA Analyst, 42 years of service 
Lynne has held a variety of roles in banking from teller, to receptionist to safe deposit attendant. Later in her career she entered into the deposit operations and Bank Security Act administration areas of our field. She has been with PWSB since 2022 and has already made an impact through the work she does to protect our customers and the community at large.

Cindy Nierode, SVP/Chief Financial Officer, 40 years of service
Cindy began her career with PWSB working in loan operations, teller operations and auditing during college. Upon graduating with an Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from UW-Milwaukee, she was promoted to accounting officer and assisted with centralizing the financial reporting and audit functions at PWSB. She eventually became controller and has been in her current position since 2001. All 40 years of Cindy’s career have been right here at PWSB! Her dedication to her work and her leadership have made her a pillar of the PWSB family.

Catherine Pujanauski, Senior Commercial Support Specialist, 34 years of service
Catherine has been a steadfast presence at PWSB, always ensuring our clients feel valued. Her commitment to the banking industry is reflected in the lasting relationships she’s built with customers. Catherine spent 9 years in banking at other financial services companies and 25 incredible years with PWSB. 

Mary Karnitz, VP/Branch Manager, 32 years of service
Mary’s deep knowledge of the industry has been an asset to PWSB and our community. Mary has been the branch manager in Grafton for more than a decade and her commitment to excellence has been evident throughout her career. 

Lois Roeske, VP/Branch Manager, 30 years of service
Lois has been a vital part of our team in the Cedarburg branch since 2006. She is known for her tireless work and unwavering dedication. She has been an integral part of the bank’s success in the Cedarburg market.

Each of these individuals has played a critical role in making PWSB what it is today. Congratulations once again to all of you!  

Pictured left to right: Cindy Nierode, Mary Karnitz, and Ron Knaus from PWSB, and Rose Oswald from WBA. Seated: Catherine Pujanauski and Lois Roeske. Not pictured: Donna Wendlandt and Lynne Melchert.