Bank Exec Honored by Granite United Way

Each year, the Granite United Way bestows a worthy recipient with the Rumford Leadership Award. The award is a special tradition that began in Merrimack County and each year an individual that demonstrates leadership in the community is chosen for the award.

This year, the organization named Paul Rizzi, president and CEO of Merrimack County Savings Bank, the 2015 recipient.

Rizzi, a resident of Bow, was honored at Granite United Way’s Leadership Gathering on Nov. 6, 2015, at the home of Stephen and Susan Duprey. United Way supporters attended in support of Rizzi and all he has done for the community.

“Paul Rizzi embodies the spirit of United Way and has been a Loyal Contributor for more than 45 years ago when his banking career began,” said Patrick Tufts, president and CEO of Granite United Way. “We are honored to present Paul with this year’s Rumford Leadership Award. He has served this community in many ways including as a former Board Member and a former Allocations Chair for United Way. He and his wife, Cathy, are truly community minded and exceptional role models for their sons.”

Under Rizzi’s guidance, Merrimack County Savings Bank has evolved from a small bank into a full service community bank. He is now co-CEO of newly established multi-bank mutual holding company, New Hampshire Mutual Bancorp, which company owns MCSB and Meredith Village Savings Bank.

In addition to his involvement with United Way, Rizzi has also served on the Board of Directors for many local nonprofits including Bow Economic Development Corporation, Baker Free Library Foundation, Bow Rotary Club, Concord Family YMCA, Community Bridges; and the Concord Boys and Girls Club

At the event Rizzi shared his personal thoughts about giving back to the community.

“It was always important to me, and my wife, Cathy, to give back to the community. I am proud to work with so many others who also want to give back to this community,” said Rizzi. “I am honored to receive this award and I thank you.”

The event was sponsored by the Duprey Services Company and Northeast Delta Dental.

To view images from the event, visit Granite United Way’s Facebook page. For more information, visit graniteuw.org.

Caption: Patrick Tufts, president and CEO of Granite United Way, Paul Rizzi, president and CEO of Merrimack County Savings Bank and 2015 Rumford Leadership Award Recipient, event hosts Susan and Stephen Duprey.