Farmington, ME – Franklin Savings Bank announces the upcoming retirement of Lorna Niedner, SVP, Director of Residential and Consumer Lending, after an outstanding 38-year career with the Bank. Lorna’s journey with FSB began in June 1986 as a Bank Teller and Receptionist, and over the decades, she has played an instrumental role in shaping the Bank’s lending operations, mentoring team members, and strengthening relationships with customers.
“Lorna’s extraordinary career with us began when she wrote on her original application, ‘Franklin Savings Bank is definitely the place I want to work. I’m a hard worker and would do my best for your bank.’ She not only fulfilled that promise but far exceeded it,” said Tim Thompson, President and CEO. “Her dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our customers, our communities, and the Bank have set an example we all aspire to.”
A Career of Dedication and Leadership
Lorna’s career trajectory at Franklin Savings Bank reflects her deep expertise and passion for community banking. In addition to serving as Jay Branch Manager for 13 years, she has held various leadership roles in the loan department, ultimately advancing to Senior Vice President, Director of Residential and Consumer Lending. She has been a guiding force behind the Bank’s mortgage lending efforts, particularly in construction lending, first-time homebuyer programs, and small business lending.
“The banking industry has changed in so many ways, from technology to regulations, but the one constant has always been the importance of relationships,” said Lorna. “I’ve been fortunate to work alongside incredible colleagues and mentor the next generation of bankers who will carry FSB’s mission forward.”
A Legacy of Community Banking
Beyond her technical expertise, Lorna is known for her unwavering dedication to FSB’s mission as a true community bank. “We’re not just here to process transactions—we’re here to help people achieve homeownership, build financial security, and support the communities we serve,” she shared. “FSB has always invested in its people, and I’m proud to have been part of that.”
Throughout her tenure, Lorna has been a mentor to countless employees, instilling in them the values of compassion, integrity, and customer-first service. Her leadership has shaped the lending department into a highly skilled and deeply knowledgeable team, ensuring a seamless transition as she enters retirement.
Reflecting on her time at the Bank, Lorna shared that she is most proud of advocating for employees and watching them grow into leaders. One of her early career milestones was streamlining the mortgage application process, a change that significantly improved efficiency for both customers and lenders.
Outside of the office, Lorna previously served on the board of the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area and was actively involved in teaching Credit for Kids and working with Jobs for Maine’s Graduates in the Jay and Livermore areas, helping young people build financial literacy and establish strong credit habits.
Looking Ahead
As she enters this new chapter, Lorna is excited to spend more time with her family, travel to National Parks, and take on new hobbies. When asked what she will miss the most about coming to work every day, she simply said, “The people.”
Franklin Savings Bank extends its deepest gratitude to Lorna for her years of service, leadership, and dedication. While she will be greatly missed, her impact will continue to be felt through the team she has trained, the customers she has helped, and the culture of excellence she has helped build.
About Franklin Savings Bank
Founded in 1868, Franklin Savings Bank is a community-focused financial institution that serves Maine’s western, central, and Downeast regions from eight locations. With a reputation for strong customer service and deep community involvement, the Bank offers a wide range of products and services.