Courtney Austin Honored by American Bankers Association with Emerging Leader Award
Farmington, Maine – Courtney Austin, AVP, Marketing Director at Franklin Savings Bank, has been recognized by the American Bankers Association (ABA) as a recipient of its 2024 Emerging Leader Award. This prestigious award, presented during the ABA Annual Convention in New York, celebrates emerging bank leaders nationwide who demonstrate a commitment to excellence in the banking industry, along with dedication to their communities.
“We are incredibly proud that Courtney has received national recognition from the ABA,” said Tim Thompson, President and CEO of Franklin Savings Bank. “Courtney’s dedication and innovative approach have made a tremendous impact, not only on our bank’s growth but also in the communities we serve. She is a true asset to our team and embodies the spirit of community banking.”
The ABA’s Emerging Leader Award honors individuals based on qualities such as dedication to the profession, innovation, leadership, mentoring abilities, community commitment, and personal integrity. Courtney’s achievements within the banking industry and her proactive approach to community involvement demonstrate these qualities. She exemplifies what it means to be a forward-thinking leader in community banking.
Courtney began her journey at Franklin Savings Bank in 2018 as a Marketing and Accounting Intern. Her career quickly advanced, and she has held roles as Marketing and Projects Coordinator and Marketing Officer, before stepping into her current role as AVP and Marketing Director. With a BA in Business Psychology from the University of Maine at Farmington and a Certified Financial Marketing Professional (CFMP) certification from the American Bankers Association, Courtney leads marketing operations at the Bank, guiding strategies that align with Franklin Savings Bank’s goals and mission.
In addition to managing the bank’s rebranding and ongoing marketing efforts, Courtney has been instrumental in shaping the bank’s giving strategy and employee engagement initiatives. She serves as the long-time chair of the bank’s ‘Culture Crew,’ leading programs that foster a positive workplace culture through employee appreciation, core value awards, and team celebrations. She is also a graduate of Franklin Savings Bank’s Next Level Leadership program, which focuses on instilling leadership skills and practices in individuals within the Bank.
“Courtney is someone who leads by example, inspiring everyone around her to aim higher,” said Derek Hayes, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer. “Her passion, positivity, and dedication to both our bank and the community set a gold-standard example. Whether she’s coordinating bank initiatives or volunteering locally, Courtney demonstrates what it truly means to lead with purpose.”
Beyond her work at Franklin Savings Bank, Courtney embodies the bank’s commitment to community involvement. In 2023, she dedicated over 550 volunteer hours to local nonprofits, including the Farmington Public Library, Kingfield POPS, Greater Franklin Food Council, and the Heart of Ellsworth. Her involvement underscores her dedication to uplifting her community, a core value of Franklin Savings Bank.
Franklin Savings Bank established in 1868 and headquartered in Farmington, Maine, is a community bank committed to supporting its customers and fostering the growth of its neighbors. With branches across the region, the Bank remains independently operated and dedicated to being a reliable financial partner to its community members through every stage of life.
Learn more about Courtney Austin and the ABA’s 2024 Class of Emerging Leaders.
https://www.aba.com/banking-topics/operations/leadership/emerging-leaders/aba-emerging-leader-awards