The New Hampshire Bankers Association (NH Bankers) is proud to announce David Finnerty, President & CEO of Claremont Savings Bank, as the recipient of the 2026 Community Banker of the Year Award.

Selected unanimously by an esteemed panel of judges, Finnerty was recognized for his exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to community, and his extraordinary response during the Claremont School District financial crisis.

When the Claremont School District faced an unprecedented funding shortfall that threatened school operations for nearly 1500 students and over 270 teachers and staff would have been furloughed Finnerty led Claremont Savings Bank to take immediate action. Within 48 hours, the bank structured and approved a $4 million revolving line of credit at a reduced interest rate, providing the district with the financial stability needed to continue serving students while long-term solutions were developed. Recognizing that students also faced the loss of extracurricular opportunities, Finnerty and Claremont Savings Bank later made their own budget cuts to donate an additional  $100,000 to restore athletics, arts, music, theater, clubs, and career and technical education programs.

"Dave embodies everything this award represents," said Kristy Merrill, President & CEO of the New Hampshire Bankers Association. "Community banking is about more than financial services; it's about being there when your community needs you most. Dave's leadership during one of Claremont's most difficult moments demonstrated compassion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to doing what was right. His actions protected educational opportunities for hundreds of students and reminded us of all of the vital role community banks play in strengthening New Hampshire."

Finnerty's commitment to service extends well beyond this defining moment. Under his leadership, Claremont Savings Bank has cultivated a culture of community engagement, with employees contributing nearly 3,900 volunteer hours in 2025 alone across more than 50 nonprofit organizations. He also serves numerous local, regional, and industry boards supporting economic development, higher education, community revitalization, and community banking advocacy.

Highlights from David Finnerty's Career and Community Service

• President & CEO, Claremont Savings Bank
• Nearly 30 years in the banking industry
• Led Claremont Savings Bank's response to the 2025 Claremont School District funding crisis, securing a $4 million line of credit to help keep schools operating
• Guided the Bank's $100,000 commitment to restore extracurricular programs for Claremont students
• Chair, NH Bankers Community Bank Council
• Member, NH Bankers Economic Empowerment Legislative Committee
• Federal Delegate Board Member and Mutual Bank Council Member, Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA)
• Board Member, Barret Banking School Board of Regents
• Board Member and Finance Committee Member, Claremont Development Authority
• Treasurer, Discover Sugar River Region
• Treasurer, Springfield On The Move
• Board Member, Granite United Way, Chair for the 100 Year Celebration Committee (2027)
• Board Member, The Northen Stage, Chair of the Audit Committee
• Advisor Council Member, River Valley Community College
• Mentor American Corporate Partners, supporting veterans and transitioning service members

Throughout his career, Finnerty has championed the belief that community banks are more than financial institutions, they are partners in the success of the communities they serve. His leadership, humility, and commitment to service continue to inspire both his colleagues and communities across New Hampshire.

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About the Community Banker of the Year Award

Each year, NH Bankers honors a New Hampshire banker who has gone beyond the course of ordinary business to improve the quality of life in New Hampshire through exceptional civic and community engagement. Recipients are respected industry professionals whose leadership and service have made a meaningful impact on their communities while inspiring others to become involved.

About the New Hampshire Bankers Association

The New Hampshire Bankers Association is a statewide, not-for-profit trade association representing and serving all the banking institutions in the State of New Hampshire. Its mission is to support its members by fostering a banking environment that strengthens New Hampshire's communities. For more information, visit www.nhbankers.com or call (603) 224-5373.