Meet Our Lenders: Prairie du Chien
STEVE ESSER
Senior Vice President
MICHAEL HIGGINS
Vice President - Commerical Loan Officer
STEVE ESSER
Senior Vice President
MICHAEL HIGGINS
Vice President - Commerical Loan Officer
Steve started his ag finance career in 1997 and has been in community banking since 2001. Growing up on his family’s farm in southwest Wisconsin, he’s always been interested in agriculture, business and numbers, so a career in banking was a natural fit for him. Steve’s calm and caring demeanor paired with his extensive knowledge of the finance industry help him achieve his purpose of helping customers meet their goals.
As a lifetime member of the FFA Alumni, Steve’s passion for agriculture began early and continues to shine through today with his active involvement in the Crawford County Dairy Promoters, Crawford County Dairy Breakfast, Grant County Dairy Breakfast and Prairie du Chien Farmer Appreciation Dinner committee. Steve is also committed to being involved in the community as a volunteer coach of the Lancaster Middle School football team and supporting the Lancaster High School scholarship committee.
When he’s not on the farm or in the community, you can find Steve enjoying time with his family, cheering on his favorite sports teams, fishing, golfing or exploring the rural landscapes that surround us.
NMLS#: 713510
Michael has been helping businesses thrive since 2007, when he began his banking career as a commercial lender. His passion lies in working closely with customers to create financial solutions that are both affordable and built for long-term success. Whether you’re ready to start, purchase, or expand your business, Michael is here to support your goals and partner with you every step of the way.
Michael is deeply involved in the Prairie du Chien community. He serves on the Board of Directors and Executive Board for Crossing Rivers Health, is a Rotary member, and acts as treasurer for Prairie du Chien Youth Soccer. He also serves as President of the Prairie du Chien School Board and has volunteered as a baseball and soccer coach. Through his work with community boards and advisory roles with the Wisconsin Bankers Association, Michael’s dedication to the area shines through.
Originally from Northeastern New Mexico, Michael and his wife— a Wauzeka native — are proud to call the Driftless region home. Their family stays active with three kids, two dogs, and plenty of community events. When he’s not cheering on his kids, you can find Michael spending time on the river, gardening, or exploring the great outdoors.
Michael looks forward to helping you and your business succeed!
NMLS#: 713513
Sarah Kirschbaum
Sarah's write-up
Jon Reynolds
Shania Sake
Having been born and raised in the area, Shania is thrilled to help her family, friends and neighbors reach financial milestones. Shania’s depth of experience in many facets of the bank has provided a firm foundation for her career in lending.
Shania specializes in real estate, commercial, small business and consumer lending. She enjoys being faced with new challenges and the opportunity to build relationships with customers. With a sincere passion for helping others, Shania believes in turning the idea of “I can’t” into “how can I?”
As a native to the area, Shania enjoys giving back through volunteer work with the Hillsboro Fire Department Auxiliary and Labor Day Queen pageant and in helping out at school activities and local events. During her time at UW-Platteville where she earned a degree in Agriculture Business, she was President of the School of Agriculture Council.
When she’s not busy volunteering or helping customers, Shania can be found making crafts and furniture with her husband, Chris, spending time with her two dogs, Scout and Callie and enjoying time outside.
NMLS#1816250
Shania Sake
Having been born and raised in the area, Shania is thrilled to help her family, friends and neighbors reach financial milestones. Shania’s depth of experience in many facets of the bank has provided a firm foundation for her career in lending.
Shania specializes in real estate, commercial, small business and consumer lending. She enjoys being faced with new challenges and the opportunity to build relationships with customers. With a sincere passion for helping others, Shania believes in turning the idea of “I can’t” into “how can I?”
As a native to the area, Shania enjoys giving back through volunteer work with the Hillsboro Fire Department Auxiliary and Labor Day Queen pageant and in helping out at school activities and local events. During her time at UW-Platteville where she earned a degree in Agriculture Business, she was President of the School of Agriculture Council.
When she’s not busy volunteering or helping customers, Shania can be found making crafts and furniture with her husband, Chris, spending time with her two dogs, Scout and Callie and enjoying time outside.
NMLS#1816250