Print
March is Women’s History Month—a time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women across all industries and recognize their invaluable contributions to shaping a better future. Here in Maine, we take pride in a powerful statistic: 41% of Maine’s credit unions are led by female CEOs, and the Maine Credit Union League itself is guided by a female President. This leadership reflects the strength, vision, and dedication that women bring to the credit union movement, driving meaningful progress for members and communities alike.
To celebrate Women’s History Month, our League gathered insights from some of our female CEOs to inspire the next generation of women in leadership. Here’s what they had to say.
Elise Baldacci
When asked who inspires her, League President Elise Baldacci shared, “My kids, Tate, Odie, and June. Being a mom is the most important and hardest responsibility I have ever had. I want to show my kids that women, and mothers in particular, can be strong and effective leaders. That is the mentality that I bring with me to work each day.”
Marti Allen
When Casco FCU’s President/CEO Marti Allen was asked what is the most fulfilling part about being a leader in the credit union movement, she shared, “Having the ability to make a decision and offer services that truly help people improve their financial well-being.”
Catherina Blais
Do you know what inspires Cat Blais, President/CEO at Great Falls FCU, to bring her best self to work each day? Her response is clear. “I arrive at work each day confident that today will be different from any other! I believe that a strong work ethic aligns with a positive life ethic and vice versa. People work hard for their money, and I take pride in the knowledge that our members trust us to manage their funds.”
Joann Bisson
When asked who inspires her to bring her best self to work every day, Oxford FCU President/CEO Joann Bisson shared, “My team inspires me to bring my best self to work every day. I work with highly talented, smart, and caring individuals who inspire me to challenge and improve myself. There is no way that I would let them down!”
Christine Devine
KV FCU President/CEO Christine Devine told us what she loves most about working in the credit union movement. “We care so much about the community in which we live and work. Credit unions are known for their community involvement efforts and People Helping People mentality.”
Jennifer Hogan
When asked what’s the most fulfilling part about being a leader in the credit union movement, Jen Hogan, President/CEO at Community CU, shared, “The most fulfilling part is knowing that our work directly impacts people’s lives in a positive way. Whether it’s advocating for financial inclusion, developing programs to support our members, or mentoring the next generation of leaders, I find great purpose in helping our community and our team succeed. Being part of a movement that prioritizes people over profit is truly special.”
Renee Ouellette
Renee Ouellette, President/CEO at UCU, takes pride in being a leader in the credit union movement. She shared, “Making a difference for others—whether our staff, members, or the community—it fills your heart to know you make an impact!”
Diana Winkley
When asked what advice she would give to someone looking to grow their careers in the financial services industry, Capital Area FCU President/CEO Diana Winkley offered, “There is nothing wrong with starting at the bottom and growing into another position. You grow and in return, you help others grow.”
Maria Wooten
Maria Wooten, Maine Highlands FCU President/CEO, also offered some inspiring advice for women looking to grow their careers in our industry. “Never stop learning! Ask questions and get involved wherever and whenever you can to broaden your knowledge and connections. Too often, individuals refrain from asking questions because they are afraid of being judged or thought less of. But how else will you learn? I believe that asking questions shows your desire to learn and participate in a more meaningful way. We all bring something different to the table—don’t underestimate what you have to offer.”
Take this opportunity and honor a colleague or female leader in your life by telling them how they inspire you during Women’s History Month.