#United States #Oakland #First United #Carissa Rodeheaver #Jason Rush

First United Corporation’s Transition: Carissa L. Rodeheaver’s Retirement Announcement

First United Corporation, the parent company of First United Bank & Trust, has publicly announced the upcoming retirement of its long-serving Chairman of the Board, President, and CEO, Carissa L. Rodeheaver. The retirement is slated to take place at the end of the annual shareholders' meeting scheduled for May 7, 2026. As part of a strategic succession plan, Rodeheaver will transition to the role of Executive Chairman on January 1, 2026, to ensure a smooth leadership handover.

Since taking on the role of CEO in 2016, Rodeheaver has been a pivotal figure in driving the organization towards significant growth and innovation. Under her guidance, First United Corporation achieved extraordinary financial performance, marking record earnings while elevating its industry standing as a leading community bank. This was accomplished through a balanced strategy that embraced both growth opportunities and stringent risk management practices.

“We have navigated a challenging landscape over these past years, and I am incredibly proud of what we have built together,” Rodeheaver remarked. “Our collective achievements are a testament to our commitment to community banking and underserved markets. I am confident about the company’s ongoing journey.”

Throughout her 33-year career with First United, Rodeheaver has championed initiatives that generated shareholder value and fostered a culture of integrity and inclusion. Notable among these initiatives are the establishment of the First United Community Dreams Foundation, aimed at supporting community initiatives, and the launch of the Finture, a distinguished financial education platform. Her leadership style reflects a dedication not just to the bank’s success but to genuine community engagement and customer focus.

Rodeheaver's advocacy for modern solutions to banking challenges has also positioned First United favorably amidst evolving regulatory landscapes and economic uncertainties. Her efforts have been pivotal in maintaining trust and customer loyalty while driving innovative digital transformation within the bank’s services.

Following Rodeheaver's departure, Jason B. Rush, currently serving as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, will step into the role of President and CEO effective January 1, 2026. With a rich history with the bank since 1993, Rush's extensive experience includes various managerial roles, making him well-prepared for the challenges ahead. The Board of Directors has expressed deep appreciation for Rodeheaver’s exceptional leadership and her unwavering commitment to operational excellence and sustainable growth.

Brian R. Boal, the Lead Independent Director, endorsed this sentiment, highlighting Rodeheaver’s visionary approach and dedication to nurturing future leaders within the organization. “Carissa has set the stage for First United’s continued success,” Boal remarked, acknowledging her contributions that have made the Corporation a model of stability and reliability in banking.

Post-retirement, Rodeheaver plans to take on an advisory role for the Corporation, ensuring a seamless transition while investing more time in her personal life as she looks forward to travel and family activities that bring her joy. Under her stewardship, First United Corporation, which is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2025, has consistently delivered value to its customers and stakeholders alike, navigating through assets that have recently reached around $2 billion.

First United operates a full-service commercial bank with a broad network of community offices serving Maryland and West Virginia. With this planned transition, First United Corporation aims to continue its legacy of sustainable growth and community dedication, all while staying committed to its core values and customer-centric philosophies.