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Eastmill FCU’s Patti Smith and League President Elise Baldacci.
Credit unions rely heavily on supportive, dedicated staff members to deliver top-notch service to their membership. Employees are the heart and soul of credit unions, demonstrating our shared People Helping People philosophy each day. With meeting members’ needs first and foremost, credit union employees are special links between members and their financial futures. To recognize the importance of credit union employees, our League honors one exceptional staff member each year at our annual Elevate conference’s Awards Ceremony. On May 16, League President Elise Baldacci excitedly shared that Patti Smith, VP of Operations at Eastmill FCU, is the recipient of the 2025 Jeannette G. Morin Outstanding Employee Award.
Smith received multiple nominations from her coworkers, including President/CEO Derek Hebert, EVP Kyle Rucker, Branch Manager Debbie Berry, and Branch Manager Lisa Moore. Within her 40 years at Eastmill FCU, Smith went from being on the teller line (using paper and a pencil before computers were used) to being the VP of Operations, gaining ample knowledge and experience along the way and demonstrating the immense asset she is to her credit union.
Berry expressed her appreciation for Smith by explaining how Smith’s “dedication, expertise, and exceptional performance continues to have a positive impact on her coworkers and our members at Eastmill FCU. I have worked with Patti since 1997 and her knowledge of every working part of our day-to-day functions far exceeds any standard.”
Smith is known for putting her own many tasks on the backburner to assist members and other employees, serving as their “go-to” when they need answers to any questions due to her extensive knowledge in all aspects of daily operations (and beyond).
“Her expertise is not mere hyperbole; it is consistently demonstrated through her proactive problem-solving and willingness to share her insights,” explained Rucker. “Patti embodies the very essence of member service that every credit union professional should strive for. Her commitment to excellence and to the continuous education of our staff promises lasting benefits for our current and future members—and, by extension, for our entire community.”
Over the years, Smith has been an integral part of the credit union’s transformation and growth. Hebert detailed how “she has become a fierce advocate for the credit union movement, helping countless members navigate their financial journeys and life’s major milestones.”
From giving detailed answers to questions and helping coworkers understand the impact of their work to assisting through many changes—including a leadership change in 2022 when Hebert joined as CEO—Smith has continued to demonstrate guidance, patience, and a wealth of institutional knowledge.
“Patti’s dedication extends far beyond a 9-to-5 schedule,” shared Hebert. “It’s not uncommon to see her at the credit union long after closing, working on audits, system maintenance, or assisting a member in need. Her commitment doesn’t stop at the office—she is known for taking time to answer member questions even when out in the community, always ensuring their concerns are addressed with care and expertise.
“Beyond her professional achievements, Patti is simply a wonderful person to be around. Her sharp wit and sense of humor bring laughter to the office, making every conversation enjoyable. She is a collaborative problem-solver, an invaluable sounding board for new ideas, and someone who genuinely cares about her colleagues. The only role she’s more dedicated to than her position at Eastmill FCU is that of Nanny, Mom, and wife—her love for her family is evident in the way she lights up when talking about them.”
Congratulations, Patti, on being recognized as the 2025 Jeannette G. Morin Outstanding Employee! Thank you for the unwavering support and dedication you have shown to your credit union, your members, and your community. Incredible employees like you make all the difference.
