SOUTH PORTLAND — Hundreds of Norway Savings Bank team members gathered together at the DoubleTree by Hilton in South Portland on Feb. 10 for an afternoon of camaraderie and community at the 2026 Employee Appreciation Day Celebration, an annual tradition that recognizes individuals and teams from across NSB for their outstanding work and contributions.
Individual Awards
President’s Award
This year’s President’s Award winner is Lin Dehetre, market manager VP based at NSB’s Auburn branch, who consistently delivers at the highest level, displays exceptional leadership, and enthusiastically supports her fellow team members. She has coached and guided team members from across the bank and proudly promoted the NSB culture, coining the phrase “our culture is our compass.” In addition, the New Gloucester resident performed over 150 volunteer hours last year for several organizations, including Safe Voices, Junior Achievement of Maine, and the Olympia Snowe Women’s Leadership Institute. She earns the respect of those she encounters through her genuine service and presence.
“Lin is a true team player and leads with confidence and great humility. Her impact is beyond measure, and her passion shines through in everything she does, as a team member, community contributor, and person,” said Dan Walsh, president and CEO of NSB.
Employee of the Year Award
The 2026 Employee of the Year Award was given to Amy Lehigh, market manager VP for NSB in Gorham and Standish. Lehigh, who is also a Gorham resident, was noted for her ability to build a team, bank partnerships, and strong connections with everyone she comes in contact with, as well as her selflessness, leadership and commitment to providing ongoing support for her team members.
“Amy exemplifies NSB’s ‘One Team’ philosophy and embeds it in her daily life,” said Darci Hamm, NSB’s chief operating officer EVP. “Her work ethic is nothing short of remarkable, and she extends the same energy and effort to the work she does in the community.”
Culture Champion Award
The winner of this year’s Culture Champion Award is Ashley Morrill, market supervisor for NSB in Brunswick and Topsham, who was lauded for her leadership, compassion, and work ethic and for facing challenges “head on” while continuing to guide and lift up the team.
“Ashley demonstrates true leadership in showing up for others, even in difficult times, and empowering them to succeed,” said Randy Easler, senior retail banking officer SVP at NSB. “She has fostered a community of inclusivity within the Midcoast market and never wavers in supporting her team and the customers. She truly leads by example, not by position.”
Best Supporting Role Award
Dave Guthro, marketing and communications officer AVP, was the recipient of the 2026 Best Supporting Role Award. The Kennebunk resident was honored for his commitment to utilizing his expertise in supporting the bank, its team members, and customers since his arrival at NSB in 2024.
“Dave is affable, articulate, action-oriented, and amazing. He is always ready to put his talents to best use for the betterment of the team and NSB through easy-to-understand communications, guidance, and solutions. Every corner of the bank has been positively impacted by Dave’s efforts and support,” said Melissa Rock, marketing director SVP at NSB.
Culture Awards
The NSB Culture Awards are presented to team members who exhibit elements of the Bank’s culture through their daily responsibilities and high quality of work:
Communication Awards: Fred Barstow, Kelcey Kimball, Penny Anderson, Mike Grass.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Awards: Dodie Haley, Mary Martell, Andrea Osgood, Keysha Wright.
Hunger for Excellence Awards: Sharon Breytenbach, Andy Esty, Erin Mowery, Emily Thibodeau.
Leadership Awards: Tess Barker, Beth Garza, Sarah Hawkes, Mike Scarpone.
Team Member Experience: Michele Close, Dustin LaPlante, Sedrina Rodrigues, Ross Whelchel.
Length of Service Awards
Employees celebrating a milestone anniversary at NSB were also recognized leading up to the event, with team members with milestone anniversaries of five years or more honored during the event:
25 Years of Service: Vicki Leighton and Dana Myles
20 Years of Service: Jen Cook, Heidi Edwards, Kelcey Kimball
15 Years of Service: Donna Gray, Tricia Lathrop, Lou Paquet
10 Years of Service: Tanya Damon, Katie Deshaies, Dana Fields, Beth Garza, Mike Grass, Megan Merrifield, Aleigh Swett
5 Years of Service: Penny Anderson, Autumn Dennison, Nate Dubois, Jessica Harmon, Caitlyn Hildreth, Thomas Hodgkins, Heather Kroitzsh, Jennifer Steckino.
