Nikki Roser ‘94 M‘98 named 2026 USI Distinguished Accountant
Nikki Roser ‘94 M‘98 has been named the recipient of the 2026 University of Southern Indiana Romain College of Business Distinguished Accountant Award. The award was announced by Dr. Brian McGuire, Associate Dean of the Romain College of Business and Professor of Accounting.
Roser is President and Chief Executive Officer of First Bank, headquartered in Carmi, Illinois, leading a community-focused financial institution dedicated to serving Southern Illinois and Southern Indiana. In this role, she provides strategic leadership to ensure the bank’s long-term sustainability and growth.
Prior to her appointment as President and CEO in 2019, Roser held numerous leadership roles, including Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Internal Auditor and Compliance Officer. Throughout her tenure, she has played an instrumental role in driving innovation, ensuring regulatory compliance and fostering a culture of integrity and excellence within the organization.
Roser serves on several boards and committees, reflecting her commitment to both community and industry advancement. She is a member of the Board of Directors for First Bank, Ferrell Hospital, Pekin Insurance and the Absher Charitable Foundation. Additionally, she contributes her expertise as a member of the Community Bankers Association of Illinois Innovation Committee and serves on the Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council for the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.
Roser is deeply invested in the well-being of her community, actively supporting initiatives that promote healthcare access, local philanthropy and financial literacy. Her leadership philosophy centers on empowering others, whether by mentoring emerging leaders within the banking industry or supporting community development projects that create lasting impact. Roser’s career is a testament to her belief in the importance of servant leadership, strategic collaboration and community engagement. Her work continues to shape the future of community banking in Southern Illinois and Southern Indiana, driven by a passion for fostering economic growth and improving the lives of those she serves.
Roser earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting and Master of Business Administration degree from USI. She is a Certified Public Accountant and a 2006 graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Colorado, Boulder.
The Distinguished Accountant Award has been given annually since 2004 by the USI Romain College of Business in conjunction with the USI Accounting Circle and recognizes professional achievement, service to the region and/or University and service to the accounting profession.