SPRINGFIELD — Financial centers located in the Pioneer Valley for Berkshire Bank, a division of Beacon Bank & Trust, launched a food drive to benefit local food pantries. Community members are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items through Dec. 13 at the following locations:

• 72 Shaker Road, East Longmeadow;
• 138 Longmeadow St., Longmeadow;
• 431 Center St., Ludlow;
• 74 Lamb St., South Hadley;
• 608 College Highway, Southwick;
• 820 Suffield St., Agawam;
• 19 Harrison Ave., Springfield;
• 1259 East Columbus Ave., Springfield;
• 1363 Allen St., Springfield;
• 31 Court St., Westfield;
• 44 Little River Road, Westfield; and
• 220 Westfield St., West Springfield.

Donations will benefit local organizations helping to fight hunger, including Ample Harvest, Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen, One Call Away Foundation, Our Community Food Pantry, Parish Cupboard, South Hadley Food Pantry, Community Survival Center, Longmeadow Food Pantry, United Way of Pioneer Valley, and Westfield Food Pantry.

Janice Ward

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank, a division of Beacon Bank & Trust, announced the appointment of Janice Ward as senior vice president and head of Fiduciary Services to lead the bank’s fiduciary activities, including its trust business.

Before rejoining the bank, Ward was first vice president and trust officer at Greenfield Savings Bank, where she was a member of the bank’s senior leadership team, overseeing all fiduciary activities.

Ward’s other prior experience includes serving as senior fiduciary officer in Berkshire Bank’s Wealth Management department based out of Lenox, and chief wealth management officer at Citizens & Northern Bank in Wellsboro, Pa.

“As an attorney and certified financial planner, Janice is uniquely positioned to strengthen our wealth management team as part of our ongoing commitment to building long-term relationships with our clients and providing best-in-class fiduciary services,” said Marc White, president of Beacon Bank Wealth Management, who also serves as CEO of Clarendon Private, a subsidiary of the bank’s parent company.

Ward earned a law degree from Western New England University School of Law and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. She is co-founder and former president of the Estate Planning Council of the Berkshires.

“I’m excited to be back at Berkshire, where we can now offer an expanded set of capabilities as part of the combined Beacon Bank & Trust organization,” she said. “As trusted advisors in each client’s financial journey, our team of experts looks forward to continuing to deliver an exceptional client experience.”

BOSTON — The Boston Business Journal recently honored Berkshire Bank as a Top Charitable Contributor in Massachusetts for the 13th consecutive year at its 2025 Corporate Citizenship Awards.

“Nonprofits are the heart of our communities, offering vital support and hope to those facing challenges,” said Lori Kiely, managing director of the Berkshire Bank Foundation. “Berkshire has a long history of partnering with many organizations to help build stronger, more resilient communities, and we remain deeply committed to continuing that legacy.”

This annual Boston Business Journal honor showcases companies that prioritize giving back to their communities.

“It is with honor that we present our list of the Top Charitable Contributors in Massachusetts, companies who gave $100,000 or more to Massachusetts-based in charities in 2024,” said Carolyn Jones, market president and publisher of the Boston Business Journal. “Collectively, they gave more than $416 million in cash contributions, a true example of the business community coming together to help those in need. We are proud to celebrate these organizations who give both money and time to make Boston a stronger and better place for all.”

SPRINGFIELD — As part of Berkshire Bank’s signature week of community service, 700 employees volunteered with 31 nonprofits to help lift up the places they live and work during the bank’s Xtraordinary Week (X Week) of giving back, which took place June 9-13.

Employees participated in more than 35 projects to help address issues like hunger and homelessness and aim to enhance the future well-being of those who live in Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, Vermont, and Rhode Island.

In the Pioneer Valley, employees volunteered with the Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center in Springfield, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts in Chicopee, and White Oak School in Westfield.

“Giving back is a core part of who we are as a company because we believe that lasting impact starts with local action,” said Lori Kiely, managing director of the Berkshire Bank Foundation. “Throughout X Week, our employees helped build stronger, more resilient communities — and stronger connections with one another.”

Named for the X in its logo, Berkshire’s award-winning XTEAM Employee Volunteer and Giving Program is a central element of its workplace culture, providing employees with an easy way to put its corporate values into action and help each of its communities realize its full potential.

Berkshire employees also actively volunteer throughout the year. They achieved a remarkable milestone in 2024: 100% volunteered in their communities through more than 250 company-sponsored projects with more than 11,500 hours of service. In addition to the hours contributed through X Week, all Berkshire employees are eligible for up to 16 hours of paid time off annually to volunteer with nonprofits of their choice.

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank’s Community Comeback program concluded by exceeding its $5 billion goal to lend and invest across the company’s markets. The bank launched the multi-year program as communities emerged from the pandemic in 2021.

The impact of Community Comeback is a testament to the bank’s commitment to unlock the financial potential of the communities where its employees and clients live and work. The program focused on strengthening communities in four key areas: fueling small businesses, community financing and philanthropy, financial access and empowerment, and environmental sustainability.

Highlights of its results include lending more than $3.5 billion to invest in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods, more than $600 million in lending for low-carbon projects, more than 800,000 individuals impacted through financial-wellness programming, 100% renewable electricity use since 2023, and more than $50 million in sustainable investments under management.

“As a values-guided organization for more than 175 years, Berkshire launched the Community Comeback to help transform the overall quality of life for the people and places we serve,” said Gary Levante, chief Communication & Sustainability officer. “Together, we redeveloped neighborhoods, helped consumers realize the dream of homeownership, and created jobs across our markets. Beyond the impact in our communities, the Comeback contributed to our commercial performance, which created capacity to invest in our business, employees, clients, and shareholders.”

The Community Comeback program was honored late last year with the prestigious Community Commitment Award by the American Bankers Assoc. (ABA) Foundation for its positive impact on economic inclusion in area communities.

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank has been recognized for the fourth consecutive year as one of the most trusted companies in America in Newsweek magazine’s list of the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2025. Berkshire is the only Massachusetts-based bank on the list.

In all, about 3,400 companies headquartered in the U.S. were considered for the list. In the end, 700 companies in 23 industries were honored.

Results evaluated customer trust, employee trust, and investor trust. The analysis included what was said about the companies online, including on social-media platforms, and survey results of approximately 25,000 U.S. residents.

Survey respondents who knew companies well were asked, among other things, if they believed individual companies treated their customers fairly, treated their employees fairly, and would be good long-term investments.

“This recognition is a reflection of our values-driven culture and the commitment of Berkshire Bank to integrity, fairness, transparency, and respect in every interaction,” CEO Nitin Mhatre said. “As a trusted advisor, we’re there to support our clients with expertise to help them navigate all economic environments and create a brighter future for all. We are delighted to receive this recognition for the fourth consecutive year and want to thank our customers for their continued trust in us.”

To create its Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2025 list, Newsweek partnered with Statista Inc., a leading data and business intelligence portal and provider of industry rankings that publishes hundreds of worldwide industry rankings and company listings with high-profile media partners.

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank unveiled a new service to help clients reroute their direct deposits to their bank accounts through the bank’s online and mobile banking platform.

Berkshire introduced the new service in collaboration with its digital banking provider, Narmi, and the New York-based firm Pinwheel. The service helps simplify what can be an inefficient and time-consuming process. With the introduction of Pinwheel, clients can switch their direct deposit in a few simple clicks within Berkshire Bank’s online or mobile banking platform, making it easier and quicker for clients to update their direct-deposit settings and fund their accounts.

Clients accessing the bank’s online and mobile platform can search for their payroll provider through an integration with Pinwheel, which uses permission-based technology to validate a client’s identity between multiple databases. After completing a multi-factor authentication, clients can choose one or more accounts to receive their direct deposit.

The new service covers most major U.S. payroll scenarios, including the Social Security Administration, and makes it possible for millions of workers to move their direct deposit within seconds, regardless of how they receive their income.

“We’re making it easier for clients to select and fund any Berkshire Bank account with the introduction of Pinwheel,” said Sumant Pustake, executive vice president, chief strategy and marketing officer at Berkshire Bank. “This service will help bolster our account opening process, boost account activations, and accelerate deposit conversions, all while deepening relationships and enhancing client satisfaction.”

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank employees achieved a milestone in 2024: 100% participation in the company’s award-winning volunteer program.

In all, employees completed more than 250 company-sponsored projects that totaled more than 11,500 hours of service across Massachusetts, New York, Vermont, Connecticut and Rhode Island, as well as thousands more hours volunteering as individuals in their hometown communities.

“Volunteering is a core part of our identity and values at Berkshire Bank,” said Lori Kiely, managing director of the Berkshire Bank Foundation. “For more than 175 years, Berkshire Bank has been the partner our communities rely on to help provide an important safety net for those in need and create a better tomorrow.”

Named for the X in its logo, Berkshire’s XTEAM employee volunteer and giving program is a central element of its workplace culture, providing employees with an easy way to put the bank’s corporate values into action and help local communities.

BOSTON — Berkshire Hills Bancorp Inc., the parent company of Berkshire Bank, and Brookline Bancorp Inc., the parent company of Brookline Bank, Bank Rhode Island, and PCSB Bank, announced they have entered into a definitive agreement pursuant to which Brookline will merge with and into Berkshire in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $1.1 billion, or $12.68 per share of Brookline common stock.

“Today marks a transformational milestone in the history of two storied institutions with a strong commitment to serving their clients and communities,” said Nitin Mhatre, president and CEO of Berkshire Bank. “The combined organization will be in an even stronger position to deliver exceptional client experience and create greater value for shareholders.”

In conjunction with the planned merger, Berkshire also announced it has entered into subscription agreements with investors to raise capital to support the merger. In aggregate, $100 million of Berkshire common stock will be issued at $29 per share. The capital raise is expected to close on Dec. 19. The proceeds of the capital raise are expected to support the pro forma bank’s balance sheet and regulatory capital ratios.

“This transaction presents an opportunity to bring together two historic franchises in the Northeast market,” said Paul Perrault, chairman and CEO of Brookline. “By bringing together two complementary cultures and geographic footprints with shared values and client focus, we will be better-positioned to serve our customers, employees, communities, and shareholders.”

Berkshire Chairperson David Brunelle added that “this highly compelling combination is a true merger of equals that will create a pre-eminent northeast financial institution. Scale and efficiency, combined with our shared culture of true community banking, is a powerful driver of value for all of our stakeholders.”

Shane Ruah

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank announced that Shane Rauh has been promoted to senior vice president, Business Banking team leader. In this role, he will lead the sales team for Business Banking in New York, Berkshire County, and Southern Vermont.

Rauh has more than 20 years of experience in the financial-services industry, with a special emphasis in business banking and commercial lending.

“Shane has a successful track record of partnering with commercial clients to deliver the financial services they need to grow and prosper,” said Rob Nichols, managing director, Business Banking. “As sales team leader, he’ll also work to deepen our already-robust focus on relationship building and communities across his three-state region.”

Before joining Berkshire Bank in March, Rauh was vice president, commercial relationship manager at Pioneer Bank. Prior to that role, he served as director of Business Banking at Broadview Federal Credit Union.

SPRINGFIELD — Berkshire Bank announced that Jason Niles has been promoted to senior vice president, MyBanker team leader, overseeing the MyBanker service that provides free financial counseling to help consumer, business, and nonprofit customers navigate the next stage in their financial life.

Niles has been with Berkshire Bank for more than 15 years, most recently as first vice president, relationship manager, MyBanker team leader. Prior to that, he held roles as vice president, relationship manger and branch manager.

“Jason is a passionate and accomplished leader, not only at Berkshire, but also in his community,” said Kenneth Seeber, managing director, relationship banking at Berkshire. “His drive for a best-in-class customer experience has greatly contributed to the continued success and growth of the MyBanker program.”

Niles is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and was recognized as part of the Forty Under 40 class of 2018 by Business West. He is active in the community, serving on the boards of Revitalize CDC in Springfield and the Massachusetts Veterans Chamber of Commerce. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance from the University of Phoenix.

Tracy Sicbaldi

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced Tracy Sicbaldi has joined the bank as senior vice president, Government and Municipal Sales officer. In this role, she will be responsible for managing and expanding Berkshire’s government banking relationships in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Vermont.

Sicbaldi has more than 30 years of experience in the financial-services industry with special expertise in cash management and government banking.

“With Tracy’s role, Berkshire is establishing a dedicated municipal banking team as part of our continued efforts to enhance our service to meet the specialized needs of government banking clients,” said Keara Piscitelli, managing director, Cash Management and Treasury Services. “Tracy’s extensive experience, her industry-leading expertise, and her relationships in the wider government community will ensure our government clients receive the highest levels of service and that we’ll continue to grow this important component of our portfolio.”

Before joining Berkshire Bank, Sicbaldi was vice president, Commercial and Institutional Banking at PeoplesBank in Holyoke. Prior to that, she served in town treasurer roles in Monson and Hampden and held other positions in the financial-services industry.

Sicbaldi is active in her community, serving on the board of directors for Dakin Humane Society, as board clerk for the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce, and volunteering at WestMass ElderCare and Rays of Hope.

Cathy Velez

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced that Cathy Velez has joined the bank as managing director of Retail Banking and Deposit Operations.

As a senior leader, Velez will oversee the bank’s financial-center network, retail sales and service delivery, and branch operations. She will also direct the execution of the retail banking strategy to drive short- and long-term growth, business-line initiatives, and major divisional projects.

“We are excited to have Cathy join Berkshire’s leadership team as we look to further strengthen our retail franchise, drive deposit growth, and enhance our client experience,” said Sean Gray, Berkshire Bank president and chief operating officer. “Her knowledge of our New England and New York markets, commitment to talent development, and track record of driving profitable growth make her the ideal candidate to lead retail banking into the future.”

Velez joins Berkshire Bank with more than 25 years of extensive experience in banking. Most recently, she served in multiple senior retail and private banking roles for Webster Bank.

Patsy Mullin

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank recently welcomed Patricia “Patsy” Mullin as senior vice president of Cash Management Services. Mullin joins the bank with more than 45 years of experience in the financial and banking industry. She will cover the bank’s entire footprint.

“Patsy is a great addition to the commercial Berkshire Bank team as she brings more than four decades of knowledge and experience from the banking and financial sector that will be beneficial to both her colleagues and the clients we serve,” said Scott Houghtaling, senior managing director of Business Banking.

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank and its Center for Women, Wellness & Wealth (CWWW) announced a new effort to support the Dementia Care Collaborative (DCC), a program at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Division of Palliative Care & Geriatric Medicine. This innovative collaboration will bolster the support patients and families living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias receive in Boston and beyond. The partnership also includes a philanthropic contribution from the bank’s foundation.

There are an estimated 6.5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease and more than 11 million caregivers who are unpaid family members and friends, according to the DCC annual report. Alzheimer’s disease is twice as common in women. Berkshire Bank understands there is a need to educate and support those living with dementia, caregivers, healthcare providers, and the community. By joining together with the DCC, it will assist with financial wellness and financial security, which are crucial to the aging population and their caregivers.

Supporting women through various stages of life is core to Berkshire Bank’s CWWW, which seeks community collaborations to help women gain confidence in their personal finances and pursue their dreams and goals. By joining efforts with the DCC, Berkshire Bank can enrich the financial stability, balance, and growth for women in the Boston community and beyond.

Berkshire Bank will co-host signature events in 2024 with the MGH Dementia Care Collaborative to help with the intersection of wellness and wealth. These impact conversations will be held in person in February 2024 and virtually during the spring with Dr. Christine Ritchie, a geriatrician and palliative-care physician who has cared for people living with dementia and their caregivers throughout her entire professional life. Massachusetts General Hospital is a leading institution in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia research.

BOSTON — The Boston Business Journal named Berkshire Bank an honoree at its annual Corporate Citizenship Awards reception in Boston that recognizes the region’s top corporate charitable contributors. The publication annually celebrates companies that promote and prioritize giving back to their communities.

Berkshire Bank was listed 43rd of 100 on the top charitable contributor list with $1,419,322 in 2022 Massachusetts charitable giving.

“For more than 175 years, Berkshire has been a purpose-driven bank and an engine for positive change. We are honored to be recognized with this annual award as a top charitable contributor,” said Lori Gazzillo Kiely, managing director of the Berkshire Bank Foundation. “When people ask what fuels us, we don’t just think about a better bank; we imagine better communities.”

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank will host its Xtraordinary Day (X-Day) on Tuesday, Sept. 12 beginning at noon with concurrent day-of-service events. All financial centers and offices across five states — Massachusetts, New York, Vermont, Connecticut, and Rhode Island — will harness the collective power of more than 1,000 Berkshire Bank employees to create a positive impact and strengthen the communities the bank serves.

For seven years, Berkshire Bank has closed the company for an afternoon of service events so employees could roll up their sleeves, give back to the community, and work with a variety of nonprofit organizations needing assistance. Traditionally, these X-Day events have been held in person, except during the pandemic, when they were held virtually.

“We are looking forward to this annual community service event as employees team up to make positive contributions within our neighborhoods,” said Lori Gazzillo Kiely, director of the Berkshire Bank Foundation. “We’re proud to dedicate an entire afternoon to lifting up our communities and inspiring our employees to support projects dedicated to helping nonprofits improve the communities in which we live, work, and play.”

Berkshire Bank plans to hold more than 45 volunteer events throughout its footprint. Click here to view the featured list of community events and learn more about X-Day.

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced it was recently recognized in Newsweek magazine’s list of America’s Most Trustworthy Companies 2023.

The list, which includes 700 companies across 23 industries, recognizes companies for their dedication to building trust with all stakeholders. Results were based on a holistic approach to evaluating trust that considered customer trust, employee trust, and investor trust.

“Trust is the foundation of all banking relationships,” Berkshire Bank CEO Nitin Mhatre said. “This award reflects the passionate commitment of all Berkshire bankers working hard every day to earn the trust of our customers by treating them fairly and with respect, safeguarding and growing their hard-earned assets, being there for them in good times and bad, and prioritizing transparency and integrity at every stakeholder touchpoint. We are proud to be ranked as one of the most trustworthy companies and banks in the country for the second consecutive year.”

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank was recognized on the Forbes magazine list of America’s Best Midsize Employers 2023. This award is presented by Forbes and Statista Inc., a statistics portal and industry-ranking provider. The awards list was announced on Feb. 15 and can be viewed at forbes.com.

Berkshire Bank is the only Massachusetts-based bank, and one of four banks in New England and New York, on the midsized employer banking and financial services list.

“For more than 175 years, Berkshire Bank has been focused on making a positive impact for both our employees and the communities we serve. We are honored to be part of this ranking, which acknowledges the importance of working in a great environment where employees are engaged and help drive our vision to be a socially responsible community bank,” said Jacqueline Courtwright, executive vice president and chief Human Resources and Culture officer at Berkshire Bank.

Forbes and Statista selected the America’s Best Employers 2023 through an independent survey applied to a sample of approximately 45,000 American employees working for companies with more than 1,000 employees in America. Across 25 industry sectors, 1,000 employers have been awarded: 500 large employers and 500 midsize employers. The evaluation was based on direct and indirect recommendations from employees that were asked to rate their willingness to recommend their own employers to friends and family. Employee evaluations also included other employers in their respective industries that stood out either positively or negatively.

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank, a leading socially responsible community-dedicated bank with financial-center locations in New England and New York, announced more than $2.8 million in foundation philanthropic investments during 2022.

During the fourth quarter of 2022, more than $764,000 was contributed to help the communities Berkshire Bank serves. The grants awarded cover a wide range of projects that help foster upward economic mobility, support overall well-being, and enhance opportunities for individual and small-business success, particularly for underrepresented populations. The investments also support the company’s BEST Community Comeback, which includes a planned $15 million in community contributions by the end of 2024.

In total, Berkshire’s foundation assisted 155 nonprofit organizations during the fourth quarter of 2022 through grants supporting a wide range of critical projects like food insecurity, health, wellness, homelessness, educational advancement, arts, culture, diversity, and inclusion. The Berkshire Bank Foundation is committed to supporting programs that work toward providing equitable opportunities for economic prosperity. In addition, the foundation supports programs that align with the bank’s Center for Women, Wellness, and Wealth to provide opportunities for women to build a future enriched with financial stability, balance, and growth.

“We are so proud of the impact we have made collectively at Berkshire Bank through our financial support and volunteer service,” said Lori Gazzillo Kiely, director of the Berkshire Bank Foundation, adding that, “during 2022, Berkshire Bank employees donated more than 23,000 volunteer hours to help our communities. We are pleased to continue to support nonprofits doing great work to positively impact individuals, families, and small businesses within our Berkshire Bank footprint.”

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank announced more than $660,000 in philanthropic investments from its foundation during the third quarter of 2022. The grants awarded cover a wide range of projects that help foster community DEI-focused programs, support education and youth, and enhance opportunities for individual success in the communities the bank serves. These investments also support the company’s BEST Community Comeback, which includes a planned $15 million in community contributions by the end of 2024.

”We are so pleased to support nonprofit organizations once again with philanthropy to sustain vital community services in all the regions that Berkshire Bank serves during challenging economic times,” said Lori Gazzillo Kiely, foundation director. “Since January 2022, the Berkshire Bank Foundation has provided nearly $2 million to support the needs of the community.”

Click here for the list of all third-quarter grant recipients.

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced the promotion of Nicole Skelly to first vice president, regional financial center manager for the Pioneer Valley in Massachusetts.

“We are beyond excited to welcome Nicole to the retail banking leadership team at Berkshire Bank,” said Ryan Shorette, senior vice president and head of Retail Financial Center Banking. “In her role, she will oversee 12 financial centers and work with a seasoned group of commercial partners to drive exceptional customer service and become a community leader in the Pioneer Valley market. I have no doubt she will deliver on our vision to become a high-performing, socially responsible community bank.”

Skelly will manage the daily operations of financial centers in the Pioneer Valley, which includes Springfield and surrounding towns.

Skelly brings more than 25 years of banking experience to her new role at Berkshire Bank. Most recently, she was vice president and senior branch officer of the Springfield offices, which include multiple sites at Berkshire Bank. Before joining Berkshire, she was a personal banker for United Bank.
Outside of work, Skelly is a 2014 Graduate of Leadership Pioneer Valley, where she learned how to address the challenges and opportunities of this region. She also volunteers at events such as the Springfield Pride Parade, the Springfield Boys and Girls Club, and the Irish Cultural Center of New England.

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank presented a total of $205,000 in funding last month to Springfield non-profit organizations during Berkshire’s BEST Community Comeback Tour. The grants aim to help power the financial potential of the local communities the bank serves through organizations impacting the areas of gender equality, small-business technical assistance, housing, neighborhood stabilization, and education.

The grants included $75,000 to the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts, $25,000 to Revitalize CDC, $5,000 to Martin Luther King Jr. Charter School of Excellence, and $100,000 to Common Capital, a subsidiary of Way Finders.

“For more than 175 years, Berkshire Bank has made it a priority to be the leading socially responsible community bank,” CEO Nitin Mhatre said. “We believe empowering the success of those we serve drives our own success, and by unleashing the potential of community partners like the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts, Common Capital, Revitalize CDC, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Charter School, we can be a catalyst for positive change in our communities.”

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced the promotion of Ryan Shorette to senior vice president, Retail Branch Banking. In this new role, he will oversee all 105 branches across Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New York. Prior to this promotion, he was first vice president, regional branch manager at Berkshire Bank for the last eight years.

“During his tenure at Berkshire Bank, Ryan has been an instrumental team leader in several markets, increasing our brand presence and deepening customer relationships,” said Lucia Bellomia, executive vice president, head of Retail Banking. “We are excited to have Ryan drive employee growth and enhance the customer experience, both critical components to the success of our Berkshire’s Exciting Strategic Transformation (BEST) plan. His deep understanding of complex financial client needs and financial data analysis will be an asset in his new role.”

Shorette has more than 25 years of retail banking experience and has held a number of leadership positions. Before joining Berkshire Bank, he worked at Bank of America and Webster Bank. He has been nominated for the New Leaders in Banking Honors Award from the Connecticut Bankers Assoc. and has a proven track record of successfully developing leaders and enhancing the customer experience. He earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Central Connecticut State University.

Outside of work, Shorette is an active volunteer, coaching youth sports for the towns of Bristol and Plainville, Conn. He has also participated in Christmas in April, the United Way Day of Caring, and Hands on Hartford, a COVID-19 virtual event assembling comfort kits for those in need. Beyond these civic efforts, he also served as an executive board member for the American Heart Assoc. Heart Walk in Hartford, Conn.

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced several actions it will take with its employees and customers in response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

As a first step, the Berkshire Bank Foundation will make a $50,000 contribution to the Ukrainian Federation of America, one of the oldest Ukrainian organizations in the U.S., which is working to deliver humanitarian and medical aid. In addition, Berkshire’s donation will be leveraged in collaboration with Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island on 401Gives Day, a statewide day of giving in Rhode Island on April 1. The bank selected 401Gives Day because it is a time-sensitive campaign that provides Berkshire the opportunity to make a greater impact by inviting the public and business community to match the bank’s contribution.

“As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, Berkshire Bank felt compelled to stand together and show our support as worldwide events impact all of us,” said Sean Gray, president and chief operating officer of Berkshire Bank. “Our Berkshire family has employees and customers with loved ones living in Ukraine. To strengthen our efforts, we are working to assist employees, customers, and the community by leveraging our resources and business operations to thoughtfully and strategically help individuals impacted by the invasion.”

Kathy Cloutier, Dorcas International’s executive director, added that “all of us at Dorcas International stand firm with the people of Ukraine. We have heard from our neighbors and supporters, and we agree that, given the state of affairs in Ukraine right now, we can and should serve as a catalyst for help when and where it is needed most, which is right now, on the ground in Ukraine and Poland. This 401Gives, we are proud to partner with Berkshire Bank in support of Ukrainians.”

In addition to its significant financial contribution, Berkshire Bank has implemented several actions to harness its entire business to support those impacted by the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Efforts include matched employee contributions, a supply drive and employee volunteering, and customer support, refunding outgoing wire-transfer fees to individuals sending money to family and nonprofit organizations in Ukraine.

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank announced $596,800 in philanthropic investments from its foundation during the fourth quarter of 2021. The grants awarded cover a wide range of projects that help foster upward economic mobility, support overall well-being, and enhance opportunities for individual success in the communities the bank serves. The investments also support the company’s BEST Community Comeback, which includes a planned $15 million in community contributions by the end of 2024.

Eighty-seven local nonprofit organizations received grants at the end of last year to assist with a wide range of critical projects in the areas of housing, education, economic revitalization, and health. The Berkshire Bank Foundation is committed to supporting programs that work toward providing equitable opportunity for economic prosperity.

“Being a dependable community partner to financially empower communities is an important part of the culture and fabric at Berkshire Bank,” said Lori Gazzillo Kiely, director of the Berkshire Bank Foundation. “We are proud to help so many organizations which provide vital services to the communities that Berkshire Bank serves.”

Since the onset of the pandemic, there is a tremendous need to support many organizations facing financial challenges and staffing shortages, said Liana Toscanini, executive director of the Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires, adding that “Berkshire Bank’s consistent support for our core programs, such as the Giving Back guide, Berkshire Nonprofit Awards, and volunteer fairs, has enabled the NPC to grow our impact substantially, providing infrastructure and support to hundreds of Berkshire nonprofits.”

Additional details on the foundation’s grant programs and focus areas can be found at berkshirebank.com/foundation.

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank was recently presented the Gold Community Champion Award from Banking Northeast magazine in the economic-development category. This award recognized the bank’s comprehensive efforts to foster economic resilience in its communities.

Banking Northeast established the Community Champion Awards to honor the banks and credit unions who went beyond the call to aid their community in a special time of need or whose cumulative effort has made a substantial, positive impact. Winners were presented at the magazine’s Gala Awards last month at Mohegan Sun.

Berkshire Bank’s Gold Community Champion Award recognized its efforts to harness its core business activities, pandemic response, community involvement, philanthropic programs, and innovative financial solutions such as MyFreedom Checking and the Futures Fund to strengthen its neighborhoods. Berkshire helped deploy nearly $1 billion in PPP funding to assist small businesses during the pandemic and helped more than 180,000 individuals with financial-wellness programming. According to an independent third party, Berkshire reinvests at a rate nearly 70% higher than the industry average.

“Berkshire has been an engine for positive change in our communities for more than 175 years, and this honor is a reflection of the collective efforts of our employees and community partners,” said Gary Levante, senior vice president of Corporate Responsibility. “We always have our customers’ and communities’ backs on their worst days and help make the best ones possible. Stronger, more economically resilient communities require a better approach to banking, and we’ve accelerated that work with the launch of our BEST Community Comeback this past September.”

Through its BEST Community Comeback, the company expects to lend and invest $5 billion over the next three years to lift up its communities across four key areas: fueling small businesses, community financing and philanthropy, financial access and empowerment, and funding environmental sustainability. The plan is expected to result in more businesses and jobs being created, more families achieving the dream of owning a home, more quality housing in neighborhoods, and investments in activities that reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced that it received a score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2022 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality. Berkshire joins the ranks of more than 840 major U.S. businesses that also earned top marks this year.

“We are honored to be recognized by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation,” said Gary Levante, senior vice president, Corporate Responsibility. “Our goal at Berkshire is always to be a shining example of how a purpose-driven organization can be successful while lifting up everyone in our community. Our Pride Employee Resource Group has been steadfast in their work to create a more equitable workplace, and this honor is a testament to their tireless efforts. We hope that this recognition and our culture will inspire more members of our LGBTQIA+ family to join the Berkshire team as customers and employees.”

Jay Brown, the Human Rights Campaign’s senior vice president of Programs, Research and Training, noted that, “when the Human Rights Campaign Foundation created the Corporate Equality Index 20 years ago, we dreamed that LGBTQ+ workers — from the factory floor to corporate headquarters, in big cities and small towns — could have access to the policies and benefits needed to thrive and live life authentically. We are proud that the Corporate Equality Index paved the way to that reality for countless LGBTQ+ workers in America and abroad. But there is still more to do, which is why we are raising the bar yet again to create more equitable workplaces and a better tomorrow for LGBTQ+ workers everywhere. Congratulations to Berkshire Bank for achieving the title of ‘best places to work for LGBTQ+ equality’ and working to advance inclusion in the workplace.”

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced the promotion of Jennifer Carmichael to executive vice president and chief internal audit officer. She previously served as senior vice president and audit manager at the bank.

In her role, Carmichael will continue to lead all aspects of Berkshire’s internal audit and independent SOX testing programs. She is responsible for providing independent and objective assurance to management and the audit committee on the adequacy and effectiveness of governance and internal controls to support the achievement of organizational objectives as well as promote and facilitate continuous improvement as part of the third line of defense. She reports directly to the audit committee of the board of directors and administratively to acting CEO Sean Gray.

“Jennifer is a proven leader whose strategic perspective, commitment to operational excellence, and accountability will accelerate our transformation into a 21st-century community bank,” Gray said. “Her work in this expanded role will ensure the bank adheres to the highest ethical standards, serving our company, our customers, and our shareholders well. I am very pleased to welcome Jennifer to the bank’s executive leadership team.”

Carmichael previously served as senior vice president and audit manager at Berkshire Bank. She joined Berkshire in 2016 from Accume Partners, where she served as senior audit manager to several clients in the New York and New England regions, including Berkshire. She began her career in the community-banking sector in internal audit roles and previously served several years at Ballston Spa National Bank, including as assistant vice president, compliance and BSA officer and assistant auditor. In addition to her professional achievements, she also serves as a member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary and the Vermont Veterans Home board of trustees, where she serves on the strategic planning committee.

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced the promotion of Jason White to executive vice president and chief information officer. He previously served as senior vice president and chief technology officer at the bank.

In his new role, White will lead all aspects of Berkshire’s information-technology program and oversee the teams responsible for ACH payroll, wire room, and electronic banking. He will also continue to direct the bank’s technology investments and assets to ensure it is meeting the changing demands of customers in a digitally focused banking environment. He will report directly to acting President and CEO Sean Gray.

“Jason is a proven technology leader whose strategic perspective, commitment to operational excellence, and collaborative leadership approach will accelerate our transformation into a 21st-century community bank,” Gray said. “His strong record of success in leading technology initiatives to increase efficiency and provide a secure and superior customer experience will be vital to our future growth and profitability. I am very pleased to welcome Jason to the bank’s leadership team.”

In August, BostonCIO announced White as a winner of its 2020 CIO of the Year ORBIE Award in the corporate category. The awards recognize chief information officers who have demonstrated excellence in technology leadership.

White previously served as senior vice president and chief technology officer at Berkshire Bank. He joined Berkshire in 2019 after the bank’s acquisition of Savings Institute Bank & Trust. Before that, he was responsible for streamlining the information-technology and operational workflows at Savings Institute, implementing a fully virtualized infrastructure, enhancing its overall information-security posture, and innovating customer digital channels. At Savings Institute, he served as chief information officer and information security officer. His background includes more than 25 years of experience supporting technology and operational areas within the financial industry.

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced enhanced protections that will provide its 1,500 employees with paid and protected leave to manage the consequences of intimate-partner violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Berkshire Bank has partnered with FreeFrom, a nonprofit creating pathways to financial security and long-term safety for survivors of gender-based violence, to increase its existing leave policies to benefit its employees.

The enhanced policy gives employees 15 days of leave a year to seek medical care, attend court proceedings, and relocate — all without missing a paycheck or depleting their accrued sick or vacation days. Since 2014, Berkshire Bank has had a domestic-violence leave policy in compliance with relevant state laws. These new enhancements go beyond the mandated requirements of state laws to offer additional support for survivors and their families impacted by this type of abuse.

Berkshire Bank employees will also now have access to FreeFrom’s Compensation Compass, a tool designed to assist survivors of domestic abuse in understanding whether they are eligible for compensation to cover some of the costs of the harm they experienced. In addition, the bank plans to collaborate with FreeFrom as part of its Survivor Safety Banking Initiative to explore how to design products and policies to better support customers that have experienced or are experiencing violence or abuse. This approach eliminates barriers to access for individuals of all backgrounds and experiences by providing innovative financial solutions, including an online account-opening experience that will help bring survivors into mainstream banking.

“Action matters, and we are proud to partner with FreeFrom to enhance our existing leave policies and provide additional resources for survivors of gender-based violence,” said Sean Gray, acting CEO and President of Berkshire Bank. “As we honor Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, this enhancement for our employees and collaboration with FreeFrom is an important component to living our ‘Be FIRST’ vision and values while building a successful and meaningful culture where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.”

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank has chosen Boston-based Nexamp as its community solar provider to reduce costs and improve sustainability. Founded more than 170 years ago, Berkshire Bank operates 130 branches across seven northeastern states. By enrolling in the Nexamp community solar program, the bank is taking an active role in the advancement of clean energy.

Corporations and large organizations looking to embrace clean energy have a number of compelling options today, but a community solar subscription provides a unique opportunity in scale and savings potential, while helping to green the grid in the areas they work. Nexamp operates hundreds of community solar farms that generate clean electricity fed directly to the local utility grid and allocates the value of that energy to subscribers to help reduce their monthly electric bills. Through solar net metering agreements available in the program, Berkshire Bank is subscribing to a significant portion of the community solar farm in Hadley.

“Renewable energy plays a major role in our overall sustainability strategy, which include policies and programs designed to enhance our environmental performance and increase our efficiency,” said Gary Levante, senior vice president of Corporate Responsibility at Berkshire Bank. “We are committed to transitioning our energy use to lower carbon alternatives, and, by subscribing to community solar, we are able to do that while also reducing our overall costs, an added benefit. We chose Nexamp for the simplicity and proven performance of its community solar program.”

Community solar continues to expand, providing options for those who want to go solar but do not have the resources or infrastructure to install panels on their property. More businesses are embracing the advantages of distributed solar, such as enhanced sustainability and reduced operational expenses.

“Corporations are increasingly prioritizing sustainability and looking for innovative ways to reduce their environmental footprint within the communities they serve,” said Joe Fiori, director of Business Development at Nexamp. “By integrating a mix of renewable energy, efficiency measures, and other intentional programs, these organizations are able to make a real difference. And with community solar, the benefits are available to individuals as well as corporations and other organizations.”

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank, together with Reevx Labs, will host a third part to its “Reimagining America” town-hall series today, June 25, in which it will address how white allies can help build an equitable and inclusive economy that ensures all communities can thrive.

Berkshire Bank’s goal in hosting this town-hall series is to start a dialogue about how everyone — from economic experts and policy makers to philanthropists and entrepreneurs — can work together to rebuild a stronger, more inclusive economy, and how supporting this initiative on a community level can motivate change on a national level.

Malia Lazu, executive vice president and chief culture and experience officer at Berkshire Bank, noted that, “on the heels of two impactful panels on the future of black and Latinx economies earlier this month, and in the midst of a national upswelling against racial injustice, we believe it is equally pertinent to discuss what it truly means to be an effective ally and help facilitate change in our communities. Reevx Labs was established as a place for community leaders to realize their shared vision of building opportunity and prosperity. With this panel, we intend to continue this dialogue with white allies who are seeking solutions to achieve equity in our economy.”

Participants in today’s event, to be held at 4 p.m., include Pete Dominick, comedian, radio and TV personality, and host of the “Stand Up with Pete” podcast; Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s; Barbara Clark, lead investor in Portfolia’s Rising Tide, Enterprise, and First Step Funds; Jonathan Metzl, director of Medicine, Health, and Society at Vanderbilt University; and Malia Lazu, executive vice president and chief culture and experience officer at Berkshire Bank.

To register, click here. The livestream is available here.