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Chris Bouchard and Elise Baldacci.
Every year at our annual Elevate conference, our League proudly recognizes stand-out individuals who have made significant contributions towards advancing Maine’s credit union system. This year’s recipients are truly remarkable, honoring the hard work and dedicated efforts of credit union and community advocates—including CEOs.
Our League is thrilled to celebrate OTIS FCU President & CEO Chris Bouchard as the 2026 recipient of the James M. Gratto Award for Outstanding Credit Union CEO, recognizing his exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to people, and transformative impact on both the credit union and the communities it serves.
Since joining OTIS FCU in June 2022, Bouchard has led with vision, authenticity, and a deep belief in the credit union philosophy of People Helping People. From his first day, he brought an infectious enthusiasm and a genuine commitment to fostering a workplace culture built on respect, collaboration, and kindness.
Bouchard is known for starting each day by personally greeting every employee, setting a positive tone that reflects his approachable leadership style. Under his guidance, OTIS introduced initiatives such as the “Compliment Corner,” a space where employees can share member compliments, words of encouragement, and peer recognition. He also established the “FAN-tastic Quarterly Award,” honoring team members who exemplify outstanding service and dedication. These efforts have helped create an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.
His leadership philosophy is perhaps best captured by one of his favorite Fred Rogers quotes: “There are three ways to ultimate success: The first way is to be kind. The second way is to be kind. The third way is to be kind.” Bouchard embodies that message every day, leading with empathy and making meaningful connections with both staff and members.
Beyond cultivating a positive workplace culture, Bouchard has delivered remarkable organizational growth. During his tenure, OTIS FCU has experienced a 27% increase in assets and an impressive 70% growth in total loans. He has championed innovative products and services, including teen accounts, personal lines of credit, indirect lending, business accounts, and streamlined online account and loan application processes.
These strategic initiatives have fueled significant membership growth, with more than 1,300 new members joining the credit union and membership increasing by 12%. Bouchard also successfully led a field-of-membership expansion that extended OTIS FCU’s reach into nine Maine counties, allowing the credit union to serve more individuals and families while strengthening its community impact.
One of the most meaningful outcomes of Bouchard’s leadership has been the continued success of the OTIS Advantage program, an annual bonus dividend and interest refund that rewards members for their participation in the credit union. Over the past twenty years, the program has returned $9 million to members, including nearly $3 million in the last three years alone—a testament to Bouchard’s sound financial stewardship and strategic vision.
His accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. Under his leadership, OTIS FCU was named Business of the Year by both the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce and the Jay, Livermore, and Livermore Falls Chamber of Commerce. The credit union also earned the Sun Journal Reader’s Choice Award as the #1 Credit Union in Franklin County in both 2024 and 2025. In 2025, OTIS FCU was recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Maine, reflecting the positive culture Bouchard has worked so diligently to create.
While his professional achievements are impressive, Bouchard’s impact extends far beyond the credit union walls. A passionate advocate for youth development, he serves as Vice President of Auburn Suburban Baseball and Softball, helping oversee a program that serves more than 500 families. Through his leadership, funding was secured to expand opportunities for young athletes, including providing free T-ball programs and ensuring that no child is turned away due to financial hardship.
Bouchard also dedicates his time to reading to children at local Head Start programs and volunteering with Special Olympics Maine, where he has become a familiar and encouraging presence at the Winter Games. Whether cheering on athletes, supporting local families, or volunteering alongside OTIS staff, he leads by example and inspires others to do the same.
His service to the credit union movement is equally noteworthy. Bouchard actively contributes to numerous organizations and committees, including the League’s Chapter Committee; the AVCOG Loan Committee; and the Economic Development Committee for Jay, Livermore, and Livermore Falls. He also serves as President of the Norm Nolette Chapter, helping foster collaboration, professional development, and networking opportunities for credit union professionals across the region.
Bouchard’s leadership is measured not only by growth and performance, but by the positive impact he has on the people around him. As a mentor, advocate, volunteer, and visionary leader, he has strengthened OTIS FCU while uplifting employees, members, and communities alike.
The James M. Gratto Award recognizes individuals who exemplify excellence in credit union leadership, and Bouchard embodies those qualities every day. We are honored to celebrate his achievements and recognize the lasting difference he continues to make throughout Maine’s credit union community.