Associated’s Mark Quinlan Recognized for Innovative IT Strategy

Associated Banc-Corp (NASDAQ: ASBC) today announced that Mark D. Quinlan, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer, was recently recognized by BAI Banking Strategies at the organization’s 2009 “Maverick Banker of the Year” awards ceremony. Quinlan was recognized for his leadership in developing a technology strategy for Associated that resulted in the implementation of new Core Banking and Branch Automation systems in a new in-house environment. With the exception of the company’s Trust, Brokerage and Human Resources systems, Associated replaced or rebuilt virtually all other systems used by the bank.

“We congratulate Mark and his team on receiving this well-deserved recognition,” said Associated Banc-Corp Chairman and CEO Paul Beideman. “His innovation and leadership were instrumental in the success of the major systems upgrade, which has added significant value to our company and enhanced our ability to better serve our customers.”

The massive conversion encompassed over 20 new systems and nearly 100 existing systems were modified. It involved virtually all of the bank’s employees. The move gives the bank greater control of its systems, strengthens the consumer experience and enables Associated to respond more quickly to business unit needs and market changes.

The BAI Banking Strategies “Maverick Banker of the Year” award was launched in 2008 in conjunction with BAI Mavericks in Banking – a creative forum and community for a group of executives who thrive on innovative ways to address business challenges. BAI Banking Strategies, updated monthly and online, presents the latest in best practices and thought leadership through in-depth and unbiased editorial coverage. It is a service of BAI, the financial services industry’s partner for breakthrough information and intelligence needed to innovate and stay relevant in an evolving marketplace.

More information is available at: http://www.bai.org/bankingstrategies/files/2009-may/cover/includes/sidebar5.asp

Associated Banc-Corp is a diversified bank holding company with total assets of $24 billion headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Associated has more than 300 banking offices serving approximately 160 communities in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Illinois. Associated offers a full range of traditional banking services and a variety of other financial products and services. More information about Associated Banc-Corp is available at www.AssociatedBank.com.

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