Carissa Rodeheaver
2024 Profiles FINANCIAL SERVICES
“ We believe that our role as a community bank goes beyond financial transactions ; it is about building relationships and fostering trust within our local communities .”
Carissa Rodeheaver is a leader in the banking industry , currently serving as the chairman of the board , president and chief executive officer of First United Corporation , the parent company of First United Bank & Trust .
“ I enjoy working with our associates to provide financial solutions and to create an uncommon experience for our clients ,” she says .
Rodeheaver ’ s educational journey began at the University of Maryland at College Park , where she earned a Bachelor of Science in accounting . Shortly after graduating , she obtained her certified public accountant designation .
“ I am a lifetime student , always interested in growing and developing ,” she says .
Her path to leadership at First United Bank & Trust began in the trust department , thanks to a recommendation from a close family friend , who was the bank ' s CEO at the time . Rodeheaver quickly advanced through various roles , ultimately becoming CFO , then CEO in 2016 . She credits her predecessor , Bill Grant , for much of her professional growth .
“ Bill Grant was instrumental as a mentor . He provided guidance and support and helped identify areas of strength that would allow me to grow to find my true purpose within the bank .”
Under her leadership , First United Bank & Trust has thrived , growing into a $ 1.9 billion publicly traded community bank with a robust presence in Maryland and West Virginia . Rodeheaver emphasizes the bank ’ s commitment to creating meaningful relationships with clients .
“ We believe that banking should not be a transaction but rather an experience ,” she says . “ We are in the people business .”
Rodeheaver ’ s approach to business is forward-thinking and strategic .
“ I have learned it is very important to look ahead , anticipate the challenges and plan appropriately . I also understand the value of a strong team and the value of helping them prosper .”
Rodeheaver was named one of American Banker ’ s Top 25 Most Powerful Women to Watch in 2023 and has been honored by the Maryland Association of Public Accountants and The Daily Record , among others . Locally , she serves on several boards and committees , including the Garrett College Foundation and the American Bankers Association .
Rodeheaver ’ s commitment to excellence in both her professional and personal life is admirable .
“ I believe it is important to like what you do ,” she says . “ I am passionate about being a banker and feel very fortunate to have been involved in an industry and bank that I love where I have the ability to create change for the bank ’ s associates , customers and communities .” •
Carissa Rodeheaver
Company :
First United Corporation
Title :
Chairman of the Board , President and Chief Executive Officer
Achievements :
• Maryland ’ s Top 100 Women by The Daily Record in 2020 , 2022 and 2024
• The Daily Record Most Admired CEO in 2022
• Award for Outstanding Contributions to Garrett College in 2023
• American Banker Top 25 Most Powerful Women to Watch in 2023
Community Service :
• Director and Treasurer for the American Bankers Association
• Atlantic Community Bankers Bank Board of Directors
• Treasurer of the Garrett Development Corporation
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West Virginia Executive | Profiles | 2024