Olympia Snowe Women’s Leadership Institute
At cPort Credit Union, we believe in fostering leadership and strengthening community ties. Our ongoing support for the Olympia Snowe Women’s Leadership Institute (OSWLI) is a testament to our commitment. OSWLI is dedicated to raising the aspirations of young women in Maine, which aligns with cPort’s values to educate and empower individuals to achieve their goals.
OSWLI is a catalyst for change, helping young women in Maine to realize their full potential. It provides a three-year, immersive program for high school girls, offering mentorship, skill-building, and guidance in leadership. By equipping and inspiring the next generation of female leaders, OSWLI is fostering a culture of ambition and resilience. The institute’s vision is to create a world where every girl believes in her value and capabilities, and cPort Credit Union is thrilled to support this important endeavor.
This December, cPort Credit Union employees had the opportunity to attend the 9th Annual Leadership Luncheon. Over 500 community partners, students, and friends of the Institute gathered to celebrate the program and their ability to raise the aspirations and confidence of high school girls across Maine. OSWLI featured three current or alumni of the program to speak about their experience and new opportunities since starting the program.
Our collaboration with OSWLI extends beyond financial support. We take a hands-on approach, with several employees volunteering their time and expertise, participating in the Leaders Network, and as an Olympia’s Leader Advisor (OLA). OLAs guide young women through the OSWLI program, providing advice and encouragement, and instilling valuable leadership skills.
“As an OLA for the Olympia Snowe Women’s Leadership Institute, I have the chance to guide young women on their path to leadership,” says Kelsey Marquis, cPort’s CFO & COO. “Though I share my experiences and knowledge with them, I also am incredibly fortunate to learn from their passion and resilience. This role isn’t just about mentoring; it’s about being part of a journey that helps shape these young women into future leaders. It’s truly an honor.”
In addition to mentorship, cPort Credit Union is proud to have Alicia Walsh, cPort’s Vice President of Human Resources, who serves on OSWLI’s Board of Directors. Before joining the board, she was an OLA from 2018 to 2021. She actively contributes to the strategic direction of the Institute, ensuring it continues to make a positive impact in our community.
Alicia expressed her thoughts on her role with the organization. “It is an honor to serve on OSWLI’s Board of Directors. Being part of the Institute allows me to contribute to the mission of uplifting the lives of young women all over Maine. The work carried out by the Institute is pivotal in shaping our future leaders and the ripple effect it creates permeates through our community as alumni graduate and make remarkable contributions to their communities. OSWLI’s daily efforts align with cPort’s dedication to encouraging positive change in our local communities.”
At cPort Credit Union, we’re more than just a financial institution. We’re a community of individuals dedicated to making a difference. Through partnerships like Olympia Snowe Women’s Leadership Institute, we’re helping shape the next generation of leaders. It’s just one of the ways we’re investing in the future of our community.
Pictured in photo: cPort Core Systems Coordinator, Lou Mainella; cPort VP of Lending, Kelly Chaisson; cPort Executive Assistant, Mandy Hill; cPort VP of Human Resources, Alicia Walsh; Founder of OSWLI and Former United States Senator, Olympia Snowe; cPort CFO & COO, Kelsey Marquis; cPort Director of Training and Development, Gina Pansire; and cPort Systems Analyst, Evan Lovely.