LEWISTON, Maine–A CEO who has been at the helm of her CU for more than 60% of its history has retired and a successor has been named.
Nancy Bard, CEO of Great Falls Regional FCU for more than 40 years, has now been succeeded by Catherina Blais, according to the Maine Credit Union League.
Bard began her career at the credit union as a teller in 1976 before being named CEO in 1982. According to the league, “through her efforts, she has helped the credit union expand its membership across Androscoggin County, guided the credit union through multiple mergers, and expanded the organization’s asset size to nearly $36 million.”
“Credit unions were founded upon the idea of People Helping People,” Bard told the MCUL. “I am proud our small credit union still upholds that very important philosophy. I am happy to think I was able to play a role in assisting our members in their financial journey by being able to provide them with valuable financial products and quality services.”
Involved in Community
While Bard was CEO, she assisted her community by serving on multiple committees and boards, the league said, adding she was devoted to Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger, Special Olympics Maine, and assisted with financial fitness fairs. She also worked with many employees over the years.
“It has been exciting to be able to work with so many wonderful and talented individuals over the years,” added Bard. “I would like to thank all our current and past staff for helping ensure we met the needs of our members.”
Bard’s successor, Catherina Blais, was previously with Monmouth FCU in Monmouth, Maine.