Commercial Banking Initiative
The Commercial Banking Initiative (CBI) is a high-impact academic program housed in the Department of Finance. CBI develops the next generation of commercial banking leaders through classroom instruction, interaction with industry leaders, and experiential learning opportunities.
CBI serves students, industry, and the state by creating a talent pipeline that will fill the personnel needs of commercial banking organizations in Louisiana and beyond. CBI offers corporate partners unparalleled access to student engagement opportunities that boost visibility and create meaningful dialog. Through faculty interactions, partners also gain firsthand insight into important research. These benefits and enhanced exposure through partnership recognition give CBI corporate partners a competitive recruiting advantage.
CBI Corporate Partners
Partnering to Advance Commercial Banking
There are numerous benefits to partnering with the LSU Commercial Banking Initiative. Contact Brian Andrews to become a partner.
|
Benefits |
Platinum Partners |
Gold Partners |
Silver Partners |
Copper Partners |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advertise internship and career opportunities to all students in the commercial banking track* | X | X | X | X |
| Priority access to select research authored by CBI-affiliated faculty | X | X | X | X |
| CBI annual report | X | X | X | X |
| Opportunity to network with LSU students at commercial banking conferences | X | X | X | X |
| Invitation to mentor students through the A Day in the Life program (one-to-three days) | X | X | X | X |
| Logo and link displayed on CBI corporate partnership page | X | X | X | X |
| Recognition on signage displayed at all CBI events – logo given top billing | X | X | X | X |
| Recognition in event promotions | X | X | X | X |
| Table at Commercial Banking Career Connections, an annual career exploration event | X | X | X | |
| Serve as a guest lecturer/instructor in commercial banking courses | X | X | X | |
| Recognition of partnership on Department of Finance social media channels | X (2x/year) | X (2x/year) | X (1x/year) | |
| Opportunity to host recruiting events at the Business Education Complex | X | X | ||
| Invitation to participate in Careers in Finance: Commercial Banking, a semi-annual networking event | X | X | ||
| Recognition as the title sponsor for a Finance Movie Night, includes speaking opportunity | X | |||
| Invitation to sit on the CBI Advisory Board | X |
*Opportunities will be posted on Handshake, LSU’s modern, online career resource for students and alumni.
Banker Resources
We serve working banking professionals through the Commercial Lending Development Program (CLDP), offered in partnership with the Louisiana Bankers Association. The four-month program combines instruction from LSU faculty and experienced bankers with American Bankers Association curriculum to develop practical capabilities in credit analysis, loan structuring, servicing, market and industry analysis, portfolio management, and related professional skills. Successful participants receive a certificate of completion and are eligible to earn the ABA Certificate in Business and Commercial Lending.
Student Resources
Students may pursue directed coursework in commercial banking within the BS Finance Program.
LSU is an Academic Institution Member of the American Bankers Association Partner Network. This connection reflects our commitment to preparing the next generation of banking professionals and to supporting the industry’s talent development needs. Any LSU student may take advantage of micro-credentials through this partnership. Interested students should contact Brian Andrews.
ABA Microcredentials
Small Business Banker Certificate
Duration: approx. 12 hours
This certificate equips learners with practical skills and foundational knowledge
essential for serving small business clients. Participants will gain insights into
the unique financial needs and growth opportunities of small businesses, preparing
them to deliver value-driven banking solutions and foster lasting client relationships.
Bank Teller Certificate
Duration: approx. 9 hours
Participants gain proficiency in essential operational tasks such as cash handling,
deposit and withdrawal processing, check cashing, and settlements. In addition to
technical expertise, the program emphasizes professional conduct, ensuring that tellers
consistently uphold high standards of integrity and service within the workplace.
Certificate in Banking Essentials
Duration: approx. 5 hours
Specifically tailored for higher education, the program introduces core banking products
and customer solutions, while fostering skills in communication, customer service,
and relationship sales. Students also gain competencies, including ethical decision-making,
time management, and workplace conduct—qualities banks expect from early-career talent.
Foundational Certificate in Business and Commercial Lending
Duration: approx. 20 hours *
Through practical analysis of business and personal financial statements, students
develop a thorough understanding of business operating cycles, the structure of financial
statements, the commercial lending process, and the essential features of commercial
loans—including credit and non-financial risk assessment. Mastery of these areas helps
participants confidently pursue career pathways in commercial lending and credit.
Contact CBI
Brian Andrews
2602C Business Education Complex North
225-578-6291 | andrews@lsu.edu