Longtime credit union advocate rejoins trade association in leadership role

The Maine Credit Union League is pleased to announce the appointment of Elise Baldacci as its new President, effective June 3. Baldacci, a longtime credit union advocate, is a familiar face to the credit union industry, having worked for both the League and its CUSO, Synergent®, a leading financial technology and services company for credit unions nationwide. She is the first woman to be appointed by the Maine Credit Union League’s Board to permanently serve the organization in this capacity.

“After conducting a thorough search for our industry’s next leader, Elise’s qualifications, including her experience advocating for credit unions, stood above the rest,” said David Desjardins, Chairman of the Maine Credit Union League Board of Directors and CEO of Acadia Federal Credit Union. “She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this role, along with a deep commitment to carrying out the credit union People Helping People philosophy. Her familiarity with both the League and the credit union movement makes her well-positioned to advance the interests of Maine credit unions, now and in the future.”

Baldacci joins the Maine Credit Union League from the office of Governor Janet T. Mills, where she served as Deputy Chief of Staff. Prior to her service in the Governor’s office, she worked for both the League and Synergent in various roles and was a member of the Senior Leadership Team. Baldacci began her career at the League as the Director of Governmental Affairs and assumed additional management and oversight responsibilities throughout her tenure, serving as an Assistant Vice President; Vice President; and Senior Vice President – Policy. She also gained valuable experience advocating for state and national clients during her time with Maine Street Solutions in Augusta.

“I am honored that the League’s Board is providing me this tremendous opportunity,” shared Baldacci. “In many ways, I feel like I’m coming home. I’ve always been deeply passionate about credit unions and the tremendous difference they make in their communities and in their members’ lives. I am eager to begin working with the League’s talented staff and with Maine’s credit unions to advocate on their behalf and showcase the mission and values of our industry.”

A graduate of the University of Maine, Baldacci holds a Bachelor of Arts degree. She also earned her Juris Doctorate from the University of Maine School of Law. Baldacci and her husband, Devin, reside in North Yarmouth with their three children.