Dec. 17, 2025

This piece is sponsored by Central Bank.

When Branygon Kirsch isn’t connecting with clients and colleagues in her new role at Central Bank, she’s likely cheering on the Jackrabbits at an SDSU basketball game.

That’s how the southern Iowa native found her way to Brookings – when the latest chapter in her banking career followed her husband’s move as the SDSU assistant basketball coach.

“We lived in Brookings in 2017 while he was earning his master’s, and since he was born in Sioux Falls, we have family nearby and have always loved the area,” she said. “When we were invited to return for his new role, it was an easy yes. The town is beautiful, the community is welcoming, we enjoy supporting local businesses, and I’ve truly loved being part of Central Bank.”

Kirsch’s specialization in agricultural banking comes naturally. She grew up on a dairy farm that transitioned into row crops and cattle.

“I have so much respect for farmers,” she said. “My grandpa is still on the tractor. As a lender, you ride the roller coaster of the ag economy with them, and I’m here to support and make sure they have the funds to be successful at farming.”

After graduation from Iowa State University, she became a credit analyst on the ag lending side of a community bank, then moved into business lending. She also has worked for an online ag finance company and most recently as a loan officer in Fort Dodge, Iowa, before joining Central Bank in Brookings earlier this year.

“For me, customers become friends. You buy FFA fruit from their kids, and if you need a barn cat, they’ve got one,” Kirsch said. “You get to know their families, and most of the time you call to catch up and not even talk about banking. Farmers are special, and it’s very rewarding when you can keep them in the field another year and be their banker.”

At Central Bank, “we have a very good group of people here,” she said. “I’m on loan committee calls with the owners of the bank weekly, and that doesn’t happen everywhere. That’s very special and unique. This bank has your back and is a really good spot to be.”

The Brookings team also is looking forward to open its new branch in town early next year.

“It’s coming along very well, and we’re super-excited about it,” Kirsch said. “We’re looking forward to connecting more in the community and having a stronger presence, and the new branch definitely helps.”

When she and her 3-year-old aren’t courtside at SDSU, Kirsch is eager to become more involved in the Brookings area.

“I want to get involved,” she said. “I’ve applied to be on a couple boards for different organizations, and I’ve already met so many people through the SDSU community. I’m excited to connect even further.”

To connect with Branygon Kirsch, call 605-696-3412 or email bkirsch@mycentral.bank.

Central Bank | Member FDIC