Androscoggin Bank was honored yesterday as the recipient of the “Champions of Change” award during YWCA Central Maine’s 2025 Stand Against Racism Conference. This one-day, bi-annual event convenes leaders, advocates, and organizations working to advance racial justice and equity across Maine.
The 2025 conference theme, “Reduce Conflict, Improve Culture: A Guide to Restorative Practices,” featured keynote speaker Hilary North-Ellasante (they/them) of Water’s Edge Consulting, whose presentation, “Re-storying Our Pathways to Liberation,” encouraged participants to explore liberatory practices and integrate anti-oppression into daily life.
Each year, YWCA Central Maine and its board of directors present the Champions of Change award to a Maine-based business or organization that has demonstrated a sustained commitment to equity in the workplace and beyond. This year’s recipient was Androscoggin Bank, recognized for its continued leadership in building a more inclusive, equitable community.
“Androscoggin Bank’s accomplishments and long-term commitment to equity within their workplace, within their industry, and within the greater community makes them a champion for equity and social justice and we are pleased to honor them with this year’s YWCA Champion of Change Award,” said Melanie LaMore, CEO of YWCA Central Maine.
“We are deeply honored to be recognized as a “Champion of Change” by the YWCA of Central Maine given the leadership and impact they demonstrate every day. At Androscoggin Bank, we understand that we prosper when our community prospers,” said Neil Kiely, President and CEO of Androscoggin Bank. “Since our founding in 1870, we have helped generations of “New Mainers” establish a life and livelihood in Lewiston & Auburn. While our efforts might look different over the course of our history, there is a common thread throughout. We strive every day to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to achieve their full potential, so that they may contribute their full measure to the success of our broader community. Fostering inclusion and belonging in our workplaces and communities is critical to unlocking that full potential and we are proud to partner with the YWCA to be leaders in this work.”
Proceeds from the conference directly support YWCA Central Maine’s ongoing mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
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