Crommett promoted at Maine State CU

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Amanda Crommett

Stephen Wallace, President and CEO of Maine State Credit Union, has announced the promotion of Amanda Crommett to Senior Vice President, Chief Organizational Developmental Officer. In this newly-created role, Crommett will oversee the training and development team and help to guide the continued growth of credit union.

“Amanda has been with the credit union for 18 years,” said Wallace. “During this time, she has worked in a variety of roles and has been an advocate for the creation of a workplace environment that focuses on the growth and development of all employees at all levels. This is not an easy task and in her new role, she will lead the charge to build the tools and resources that we need to maintain a strong culture as we expand across the state of Maine and have employees in different locations.”

Crommett started her career at Maine State Credit Union in the collections department and then moved to the lending department as a consumer loan officer. She then moved to the sales and service group, where she helped to develop training plans and eventually was selected to build the training and organizational development team, which has now expanded to four.

“I am passionate about helping others become the best versions of themselves,” said Crommett. “I am excited to be asked to take the lead in building a world-class organizational development group. Now, more than ever, it is important for employees to feel empowered and given the tools, training, and opportunity to grow. As Maine State Credit Union expands, and we have employees all over the state of Maine, it is critical for everyone to feel valued and connected. I am humbled to be selected to lead the charge.”

Crommett is a lifelong learner. She attends Southern New Hampshire University where she is studying organization psychology. She is a graduate of the Institute of Organizational Development and is a certified Myers-Briggs practitioner. Crommett lives in Manchester and can be found cheering for her children at their sporting events and exploring the grand state of Maine.

Nikia Levesque appointed vice president of jewelry association

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Nikia Levesque

The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) announces the appointment of Nikia Levesque as the vice president of the WJA Foundation. With nearly a decade of experience in the jewelry industry, Nikia brings a profound dedication to advancing women’s careers and a proven track record of leadership and innovation.

Susan Chandler, President of the Women’s Jewelry Association and Chief Merchandising Officer for Citizen Watch America, expressed her enthusiasm about Nikia Levesque’s appointment, stating, “Nikia brings a dynamic blend of industry expertise and unwavering commitment to empowering women. Her leadership will undoubtedly propel the WJA Foundation’s mission forward, inspiring countless women to reach new heights in their jewelry careers.”

Nikia’s journey in the profession is marked by excellence in jewelry retail. In high school, Nikia began her jewelry journey at Day’s Jewelers, in Waterville, in the service department. Her expertise spans marketing strategy, brand management, social media marketing, and customer relationship management. In addition to her WJA board appointment, Nikia is the vice president of marketing at Day’s Jewelers, where she demonstrates exceptional leadership in overseeing the company’s brand strategy, market development, and advertising initiatives.

Throughout her Day’s Jewelers tenure, Nikia spearheaded numerous successful projects, including the seamless launch of a new Shopify website, developing a comprehensive brand book, and the coordination of strategic partnerships with brands like Sea Bags. She played a pivotal role in the platform migration and build of the company’s current website. Her ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive results has been instrumental in elevating Day’s Jewelers’ brand presence and achieving key organizational objectives. Levesque was recognized as part of the Jewelers of America, Class of 2023, 20 Under 40.

Levesque says, “I am deeply honored to assume the role of vice president for the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation Board. This organization has a rich history of empowering women in the jewelry industry, and I am committed to advancing its mission of fostering education, mentorship, and opportunities for women. Having started in this industry at the young age of 16, I am particularly grateful for the invaluable guidance and support I received from women who paved the way before me. Now, as I step into this leadership role, I am eager to give back and continue learning from the remarkable women in our industry. Together with the dedicated members of the board, I look forward to contributing to the growth and success of WJA, as we continue to inspire and support women in our vibrant and dynamic industry.”

Kennebec Valley Council of Governments names Joel Greenwood executive director

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Joel Greenwood, from the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments. (photo by Eric Austin)

The Kennebec Valley Council of Governments (KVCOG) has announced that its board of directors has appointed Joel Greenwood as executive director.

Eric Dyer, KVCOG Board of Director’s President and Town Manager of Readfield, announced “We are excited for the opportunity to bring one of our most talented and experienced employees into the executive director role on a permanent basis. Joel is already well known to our membership and fully aware of KVCOG operations and services, which will result in a near seamless transition for the organization.”

Dyer added, “In his new position Joel’s expertise as a planner will strengthen KVCOG’s essential role in supporting regional and local planning initiatives and provide deliberate and thoughtful leadership.

“I am very happy to be able to step up on a permanent basis to lead KVCOG as its next executive director, ” Greenwood said. “My long tenure and experience in the organization will make the transition as smooth and quick as possible. I’m grateful to continue working with the exceptional team at KVCOG that provides high-quality and valuable services to the municipalities of the Kennebec Valley.”

“As an organization, KVCOG will continue to look for new ways to assist communities across the region.” Greenwood succeeds Matthew Underwood, who tendered his resignation to the board of directors in late January. Joel has been with KVCOG since 2011 and has had more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit work, redevelopment, economic development in rural communities and all aspects of rural and urban planning. His years of experience in all aspects of KVCOG’s operations, existing relationships with its members and as an admired mentor and leader to the KVCOG team translates to a bright future for KVCOG and its member municipalities.

EVENTS: Northern Light Acadia Hospital observes National Eating Disorders Awareness Week

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28.8 million Americans will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives.

February 26 through March 3 is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week and Northern Light Acadia Hospital is taking the opportunity to raise awareness and share important information about eating disorders with our communities. Did you know…

  • Nine percent of the US population – or 28.8 million Americans – will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives.
  • Eating disorders have the second highest mortality rate of any mental illness, with the risk of death being highest in anorexia nervosa.
  • Eating disorders are complex medical and mental illnesses. Genetic, biological, environmental, and social factors all can play a role.

A commonly held misconception about eating disorders is that they are a lifestyle choice. Eating disorders are actually serious and often fatal illnesses and can affect anyone, regardless of age, size, gender, race, sexuality, ability, and more. Common eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder.

The good news is early intervention can make all the difference. Getting treatment early in the course of an eating disorder greatly improves the chances of recovery. If you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder, don’t wait to get help.

In honor of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, Acadia Hospital is lighting up in green for the week, turning our rooftop lights to green to bring attention to this important cause.

Through its Eating Disorders Treatment Program, Acadia Hospital offers a number of important resources for anyone struggling with an eating disorder. With individual, family, and group therapy options, nutrition counseling, medication management, and more, Acadia’s trained and dedicated team of experts can help. To learn more, visit our website at northernlighthealth.org/Acadia_EDTP.

Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce welcomes new team member Jamie Feyler

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Jamie Feyler

Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the addition of Jamie Feyler to its team. She serves as customer service/bookkeeper and is responsible for the day-to-day customer service and bookkeeping activities of the Mid-Maine Chamber. Jamie is a proactive bookkeeper who is dedicated to maintaining accurate and timely financial records.

Jamie serves as the first point of contact for the Chamber both in-person and over the phone, maintaining positive member relations. In her interactions with the public as well as members, Jamie continually “sells” the Chamber and seeks to motivate and influence others on the positive attributes of Chamber involvement.

“In her short time with the Mid-Maine Chamber team, Jamie has already distinguished herself as an outstanding problem solver. Her attention to detail, accuracy, and efficiency makes her a welcome addition. She fits in nicely with our team,” says Mid-Maine Chamber President and CEO Kimberly N. Lindlof.

Jamie is a Waterville native and resides in Winslow with her family.

Northern Light Health glows red for American Heart month

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Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. While education and technological advancements have helped increase awareness and survivorship, thousands of Mainers have lost friends or loved ones to cardiovascular disease. In support of those whose lives have been affected by cardiovascular disease in our communities, and for those who are taking steps to improve their heart health, Northern Light Health is lighting our hospitals red for American Heart Month.

“We all know how common heart disease is and just how serious it can be,” says Zachary Trzaska, MD, cardiologist with Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital. “One of the best defenses we have against cardiovascular disease is taking preventive measures, which can be either big or small steps, depending on the individual. Moderate exercise and healthy eating, for example, can go a long way for most people. However, when a patient has a diagnosis that requires advanced treatment options, they can be assured that we offer those, so they know they won’t have to travel too far for care.”

Though some of the symptoms of cardiovascular disease can be obvious, such as irregular heart rhythm or intense chest pain, others can be more subtle, particularly for women. Those can include pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach, or breaking out in a cold sweat and having nausea or lightheadedness. That’s one of the reasons that, in addition to lighting our facilities red for the month, Northern Light Health is encouraging all staff members to participate in National Go Red for Women day on Friday, February 2, an initiative to raise awareness for women’s heart health. For 20 years, the Go Red for Women initiative has helped to shine a light on the fact that heart disease remains not only the leading cause of death for men, but also for women in the U.S.

“By going red for women on February 2 and glowing red all month long, we hope to inspire those within our communities to develop heart-healthy habits with their family, friends, and neighbors,” adds Craig Brett, MD, medical director of Northern Light Mercy Cardiovascular Care. “We want to see our fellow Mainers be proactive, and to be alert to the early signs of heart disease. Treating heart problems early is much better than recovering from a life-threatening cardiac event.”

To learn more about how you can keep your heart healthy, visit northernlighthealth.org/Heart-Health.

Northern Light cancer care has new linear accelerator

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Advances in technology provide more precise radiation therapy options for patients. On January 15, the team at Northern Light Radiation Oncology ushered in a new chapter by treating patients using a state-of-the-art linear accelerator.

With enhanced automation, and a flexible high-performing radiation beam, the new linear accelerator generates superior imaging techniques with lower doses of radiation. It uses the tiniest measurement in the industry, sub-millimeters, to provide pin-point radiation beam accuracy that targets cancerous areas in the body. These enhanced features make wait times shorter, and treatment faster and safer for patients.

“With more people living longer with cancer, the need to provide cancer treatment is growing,” says Donna Boehm, RN, MSN, MPH, vice president, Oncology Services, Northern Light Health. “Our new linear accelerator better positions Northern Light Cancer Care to ensure our patients’ needs are met now and for years to come.”

This new technology is made possible using funds raised through private support, including money raised through EMMC’s Champion the Cure Challenge.

Members of the media interested in seeing a demonstration of the new linear accelerator and speaking to a subject matter expert may contact the marketing and communications team by calling the media line at 207-973-9530 or by email at emmcmediarequest@northernlight.org.

EVENTS: Lights of Life holiday tradition supports care at Inland Hospital

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Northern Light Inland Hospital is kicking off its 2023 Lights of Life program. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the community to honor and remember friends, family members, and caregivers by purchasing a light for the hospital’s holiday tree, which will come to life on December 7. Every dollar raised through Lights of Life will stay local to support care in the greater Waterville region.

Six levels of recognition are available, beginning with white lights at $10 and culminating with the star, which recognizes a single special individual or family. The name of each individual being honored or remembered will be displayed on the hospital website throughout the holiday season. Upon request, Lights of Life cards will be provided for those who purchase lights to send to honorees.

For more information or to purchase a light, please visit northernlighthealth.org/InlandLights or contact Todd Nicholson, director of Philanthropy at 861-3000.

Northern Light Women’s Health welcomes Certified Nurse Midwife

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Danielle Pelletier, CNM

Danielle has been working in women’s health services for over 30 years, the last 12 years as a midwife. She went into the field after the birth of her daughter in 1989 when she felt a void in her own support and education while navigating pregnancy and birth. She began her journey of empowering women as an LPN/IBCLC and Internationally Certified Childbirth Educator and Certified Labor Doula. She graduated from Chamberlain College of Nursing with a bachelor’s degree in nursing and worked as a labor and delivery nurse for 12 years before getting her master’s degree in nursing and Nurse Midwifery from Frontier Nursing University, in Hyden, Kentucky.

Danielle provides preconception planning; birth control management; care during pregnancy, labor, and birth; postpartum support; and well-woman care from adolescence through menopause.

“It is important to me that women receive quality care in a setting where they feel heard by their healthcare team – honoring the journey of womanhood, from adolescence through menopause, by promoting education, empowerment, and advocacy,” states Danielle.

Danielle is welcoming new patients. To schedule an appointment, please call the office at 872.5529. The practice is located in the Medical Arts Building attached to the hospital. Learn more at inlandhospital.org.

BUSINESS NEWS: New Dimensions FCU names Grenier as new executive vice president

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New Dimensions Federal Credit Union in Waterville, Maine.

Michael Grenier

New Dimensions Federal Credit Union has announced the promotion of Michael Grenier to Executive Vice Presi­dent. In this new role, Grenier will oversee operations, develop growth strategies, and enact the vision set forth by the Board of Directors and CEO.

Grenier brings nearly 20 years of credit union experience to the position, including ten years as an examiner for the State of Maine and the National Credit Union Administration. He began in 2014 with Taconnet FCU as Chief Financial Officer but later transitioned into Chief Operations Officer during the 2018 merger with Taconnet Originally from Rumford, Grenier holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with concentrations in Finance and Management Information Systems from the University of Maine. He currently resides in Central Maine with his wife and two sons.

CEO Ryan Poulin stated, “I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Mike for the past several years, and he has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, business acumen, and commitment to serve our members. His skills, experience, and vision will strengthen New Dimensions FCU’s operation in this new role.”