The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce was proud to join HRCU in celebrating two major milestones this year: the 20th anniversaries of its Farmington branch and its Spaulding High School branch and associated banking program. Established in 2006, both initiatives reflect HRCU’s long-standing commitment to community banking, financial education and investing in the future of the communities it serves.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on October 7^th, 2026, at the Spaulding High School branch. This event was attended by HRCU Board of Directors and staff, representatives from the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, and students enrolled in the program.

What began in 2006 as an expansion into Farmington and a unique partnership with Rochester’s Spaulding High School has grown into two lasting examples of HRCU’s community impact. The Farmington branch has provided local families, businesses and organizations with personalized financial services for two decades. The Spaulding High School Branch and student banking program has provided hundreds of students with hands-on financial education, career development opportunities and real-world banking experience.

Located within the Richard W. Creteau Regional Technology Center, the Spaulding High School branch is a fully operational branch staffed by students enrolled in HRCU’s banking courses. Since opening on August 31, 2006, the program has provided students with training in banking operations, financial literacy, customer service, accounting and professional development. Over the years, many participants have gone on to pursue careers in finance and related industries, while others have gained lifelong financial skills that help them navigate their future with confidence.

“These milestones are a celebration of what happens when community partnerships are built for the long term,” said Brian Hughes, President and CEO of HRCU. “Twenty years ago, we saw an opportunity to invest in both a growing community and its future leaders. Today, the Farmington Branch has become a trusted financial resource for local families, while our Spaulding High School partnership has educated hundreds of students and introduced them to the value of financial wellness and rewarding career paths. We are incredibly proud of the impact these programs have had over the last two decades and excited to continue building on that success.”

Today, the Spaulding High School program continues to evolve with expanded coursework, college credit opportunities, industry certifications, internships, scholarships and employment pathways. The program remains one of the most distinctive examples of HRCU’s commitment to financial education and community investment.

“The Spaulding program is about so much more than banking,” said Carlynne Pouliot, VP of Retail and Business Development at HRCU. “Each year, we watch students build confidence, develop professional skills and gain a greater understanding of how money impacts their lives and future goals. Our high school branch gives students real-world teller experience helping members from the public, faculty and students. At the same time, our Farmington Branch continues to embody everything that makes community banking special: trusted relationships, local decision-making and a genuine commitment to helping our neighbors succeed. Celebrating both anniversaries together is a powerful reminder of how meaningful community investment can be.”

To commemorate the milestones, HRCU held anniversary celebrations throughout September, including special promotions, community events, branch activities and opportunities for members, students, and local residents to reflect on twenty years of growth, partnership, and community impact.

Caption: Carlynne Pouliot and Kayleigh Erwin conduct the ceremonial ribbon cutting alongside incoming President/CEO Kayla Selhorst and President Emeritus Brian Hughes. They are joined by HRCU Board of Directors and staff, representatives from the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, banking program students, and Senator James Gray.