Associated Banc-Corp announced it has completed its acquisition of American National Corporation, including its subsidiary American National Bank, marking a significant expansion of its Midwest banking footprint and growth strategy.
The combined organization is expected to strengthen Associated’s organic growth by integrating its commercial banking capabilities and digital offerings with American National’s client-focused approach and established presence in key markets such as Omaha and the Twin Cities. The deal follows a strong 2025 for Associated, driven by loan and deposit growth, record customer gains, and its highest annual net income to date.
American National’s systems, branches, and customers are expected to transition fully to Associated in the third quarter of 2026. Until then, customers will continue to be served through existing branches, which will later be rebranded under the Associated Bank name.
As part of the transaction, Wende Kotouc has been appointed to Associated’s Board of Directors. Kotouc brings decades of leadership experience, having served in multiple executive and board roles at American National since joining the company in 1999, along with extensive community involvement in Omaha.
Leadership from both organizations emphasized that the merger is designed to enhance customer value through expanded scale, broader capabilities, and deeper relationship banking across the combined footprint.
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“We’re thrilled to welcome our new American National customers and colleagues to Associated. Associated has strong growth momentum as a franchise, and this partnership complements and accelerates that momentum while maintaining the same local, dependable, and personalized approach that customers of both companies have enjoyed for decades. Importantly, the merger also positions us to deliver enhanced value for our shareholders. Colleagues from both organizations continue to work closely together to facilitate a smooth and successful integration. I’d like to thank John and Wende Kotouc and the American National team for their collaboration and commitment to the future of our combined company. Wende brings an extraordinary depth and breadth of knowledge to our board. Her unique skillset and well-rounded experience will benefit Associated as we continue to execute our strategic growth plans.”
Andy Harmening, President and CEO, Associated Banc-Corp
“We share our new colleagues’ excitement for the future of our united institution. This merger with Associated Bank enables American National to create even greater value for its customers through expanded scale and shared expertise.”
John Kotouc, Executive Co-Chairperson/Co-CEO, American National Corporation; Wende Kotouc, Executive Co-Chairperson/Co-CEO, American National Bank
“We’re extremely pleased to have Wende join our board.”
Jay Williams, Chairman, Associated Banc-Corp
