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Elise M. Baldacci
It’s hard to believe we’re already approaching the end of another Maine summer. Before long, the leaves will begin to change, students will be back in school, and many of us will be settling into the busy pace that always seems to arrive with fall.
I hope each of you had the chance to enjoy what makes summer so special, whether that was time at the lake, a family barbecue, evenings by the water, or simply a chance to slow down. The work we do is meaningful, but it’s also demanding, and I hope you’re wrapping up your summer with fresh energy for the season ahead.
As we look ahead, the League’s fall calendar provides ample opportunities to help your credit union stay informed, connected, and prepared. In fact, September and October are among our busiest times of year.
We will kick things off with our Legislative Forum on September 9, where we’ll explore the political landscape and key issues surrounding the 2026 election. Advocacy is close to my heart, and whether it is central to your role or simply something you want to understand better, this forum will offer valuable insight into what the election could mean for Maine’s credit unions.
Our signature fall events, Management Roundtable and Volunteers’ Conference, will once again bring leaders from across Maine together at the Samoset Resort to exchange ideas, strengthen governance, and explore the issues shaping our movement. Between those events, we’ll continue offering Town Halls, educational workshops, and our monthly regional fraud discussions to ensure your staff has access to timely information, practical resources, and valuable peer connections.
As you begin preparing for 2027, I encourage you to consider two League services that are especially valuable at this time of year: strategic planning and succession planning. Whether you’re refining your long-term direction, preparing future leaders, or simply looking for an experienced facilitator to guide the conversation, the League is here to help. Starting now can put your credit union in a strong position for the year ahead.
Before closing, I want to thank everyone who took part in 48 to Feed the State. The generosity of Maine’s credit unions, two of our associate member credit unions, the League, Synergent, and Tricorp helped make a $100,000 donation to Good Shepherd Food Bank possible and is a wonderful example of People Helping People in action. While each credit union serves its own community, fundraisers like this demonstrate the power of our cooperative spirit and the meaningful impact we can have when we come together. I hope this initiative inspires us to continue finding new ways to make a difference.
Summer gave us a chance to reset and I know fall will give us a chance to build. I’m excited about what lies ahead and grateful for all you bring to our shared mission. Thank you for all you do to make our industry so special.