American Institute of Banking, Rochester Chapter records

The Rochester Chapter of the American Institute of Banking was organized on March 13, 1905. The American Institute of Banking served as the educational arm of the American Bankers' Association, receiving support from the Clearing House of each city in which it operated. The first course in Rochester, on Practical Banking, began on October 23, 1906. Additional courses were added over the ensuing years, some due to local initiative, others due to a national program instituted in 1913. A post-graduate curriculum to provide professional development began in 1919. With the growing offerings in mind, the Rochester Chapter appointed its first Education Director in 1924. By 1935, there were 106 graduates of the Rochester Chapter who had completed all required courses for certification by the American Bankers Association, while hundreds more had taken some courses with the Institute. A total of over 200 students were enrolled in 1935. The Institute also served a social function, arranging amateur sporting leagues and card games, Its members took part in annual conventions held around the United States, including hosting the 1931 convention.

While this collection ends in 1946, the Rochester Chapter of the American Institute of Banking stayed in operation for decades. In 1946, it was the largest chapter in New York State, while in 1966 it set a record membership of 2,000. Unfortunately, the Rochester Chapter ceased to exist sometime after the 1970s, and the educational role of the Institute has been taken over by other elements of the American Bankers' Association as of 2019.