Illinois members elected Dean A. Ahlers. Ahlers has served as President and CEO and member of the Board of Directors for Sterling Federal Bank in Sterling, Illinois since 2013. Previously, he served as the bank’s Vice President of Operations from 2007-2013. Prior to joining Sterling Federal Bank, Ahlers had a successful career in the financial services industry for over 17 years, earning several certifications of distinction including the CFP (Certified Financial Planner), ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant), CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter), and CSA (Certified Senior Advisor) designations. Ahlers graduated with honors from the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and earned his undergraduate degree in Finance from Iowa State University. Sterling Federal Bank is a mutual Federal Savings Bank that has focused on housing finance since its inception in 1885. Sterling Federal Bank is an active participant in the FHLBank Chicago Affordable Housing Program.