Welcome Charles Morris, Loan Originator

Charles Morris, Loan Originator
Charles Morris, Loan Originator

Sawyer Savings Bank is excited to welcome the addition of Charles Morris as residential Loan Originator. With over 15 years of mortgage lending knowledge and deep roots in the Hudson Valley, Charles has a strong understanding of the local market. His expertise allows him to guide borrowers through every step of the mortgage process while addressing the unique needs of the community.

“I enjoy using my experiences and expertise to help guide borrowers through achieving their most important investment – home ownership. I am excited to join Sawyer Savings Bank and be part of a team that genuinely cares about the community it serves and prides itself on its customer-first approach.” Said Morris.

“We are excited to welcome Charles to Sawyer Savings Bank,” said James Whitaker President and CEO of Sawyer Savings Bank. “Charles brings with him an impeccable reputation for providing customers with the products, services, tools and advice that will help them wherever they are in their unique financial journey. He will make an excellent addition to the lending team to deliver an exceptional client experience.”.

Charles holds a Master’s in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s Degree from Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh. He served on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Mortgage Professional Women (NAMPW) from 2017 to 2023. Charles has also been a member of several professional organizations, including the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), the Women’s Council of Realtors (WCR), Business Networking International (BNI), and he has served on the Service Committee of the Dutchess County Association of Realtors (DCAR).

Outside of work, Charles stays active through his love for sports. A former college and minor league basketball player, he is a part-time ski instructor and coaches soccer and softball. Charles also enjoys hiking and skiing with his seven-year-old daughter, Alyssa.

Thomas Scott Hired as AVP, Director of Customer Experience

Thomas Scott, AVP, Director of Customer Experience.Sawyer Savings Bank announced today that Thomas Scott has joined the Bank as Assistant Vice President, Director of Customer Experience. The newly created position underscores the Bank’s commitment to elevating the customer experience and positioning the bank for long-term growth and success.

“Mr. Scott will be responsible for streamlining and managing sales growth across multiple business lines, including branch banking and lending originations”, added James Whitaker, President, and CEO of Sawyer Savings Bank.   “I anticipate he will deliver an even deeper value to our internal and external customers as part of Sawyer’s ongoing work to remain a forever community bank.”

Scott brings over 12 years of experience invigorating and transforming the customer journey in residential and commercial lending, sales, and branch management. Scott started his career in banking as a branch manager and has since held a series of important roles including senior residential mortgage lender, loan officer, and mortgage consultant for high performing financial institutions. Scott will work directly with Sawyer Savings Bank’s leadership team to drive operational excellence and enhance the overall customer experience.

“Having grown up in Saugerties, I am thrilled to join my hometown’s community banking team that’s deeply dedicated to serving our local neighborhoods with genuine and sincere commitment”, said Scott.  “Throughout my career I have always been focused on elevating the customer experience and increasing satisfaction. Sawyer Savings Bank has a strong foundation of success and I’m excited to build upon that momentum as we continue with the bank’s commitment to putting the customer first.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Thomas Scott to Sawyer Savings Bank” said Jenn Gutheil Denier, SVP & COO. “Thomas is an extremely energetic and accomplished leader, who deeply understands all aspects of retail banking, and appreciates his local roots and our Hudson Valley market. He will be very valuable as he supports the continued execution of the Bank’s mission.”

Thomas graduated from Siena College with a degree in history and resides in Saugerties with his wife, Allie, and their four children. Mr. Scott enjoys spending time with his family, playing the drums & guitar, and working out at the gym. Scott has volunteered his time as the former VP of the Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce, prior Deacon of Family of Hope Church, RUPCO, and The United Way of Dutchess-Orange Counties.

Nicole Lowrey Promoted to AVP, Director of Bank Operations

Nicole Lowrey, Promotion Announcement to Director of Bank Operations
Nicole Lowrey

Sawyer Savings Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Nicole Lowrey to Assistant Vice President, Director of Bank Operations. In this new role, Mrs. Lowrey will bring her experience in Finance, Lending and Deposit Operations to support the bank’s continued growth and success throughout all of Sawyer’s Delivery Channels.

With over 12 years of experience in the banking industry, most recently successfully serving as the Bank’s Lending Officer, Mrs. Lowrey has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership in loan processing, compliance oversight, and customer service. She has successfully guided the loan servicing and lending originations team, ensuring the efficient management of the Bank’s existing loan portfolio as well as loan applications and approvals while delivering exceptional results. This promotion reflects her steadfast commitment to quality, innovation, and building strong client relationships.

“Nicole’s newly created role is a key part of our organizational changes as we embrace our commitment to be a Forever Community Bank,” said James Whitaker, President, and CEO of Sawyer Savings Bank. “This restructuring is a strategic move that will not only ensure greater operational compliance but also drive enhanced efficiency. I am confident that these changes will help us better serve our community and position the bank for long-term success.”

In her new role as AVP, Director of Bank Operations, Nicole will not only continue overseeing loan servicing, assess loan applications, conduct risk evaluations, and recommend credit decisions that align with the bank’s strategic goals, but will also now assume oversight for the back office activities of the Deposit Operations department. She will serve as a key resource for addressing questions, managing work allocation, and leading staff development and training initiatives.

“Nicole has demonstrated exemplary problem-solving, leadership and motivational skills throughout her successful tenure with Sawyer Savings Bank,” said Jenn Gutheil-Denier, S.V.P. & C.O.O. of Sawyer Savings Bank. “We believe Nicole is the perfect choice to lead bank wide operations. She brings significant value and perspective to our already-talented leadership team as we continue to strive for improvement and growth.”

“I am honored with this promotion,” said Lowrey. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to continue advancing our technological capabilities, improving operational efficiencies, and ensuring that we provide the best possible customer experience for our  customers, communities, and staff.”

Mrs. Lowrey is a very involved member of the community where she and her husband, Jon, are raising two children, Cierra and Bradley. She currently is a board member for the Saugerties Outlaws Youth Football league and an extremely active volunteer with her local volunteer fire department.

Text Scams are on the rise!

Staying vigilant and informed is the best way to protect yourself.

Scammers continue to exploit commonly used communication channels to target victims. They pose as trusted entities, individuals, or businesses to deceive unsuspecting victims. These fraudsters impersonate government officials, pose as family members in danger, and even pretend to be bank or credit union employees.

Common Texts Sent by Fraudsters

A recently emerging scam involves initiating contact through text messages, where the fraudsters pretend to be representatives from a bank or credit union’s fraud department. The messages will usually cite suspicious or concerning activity and may resemble the following:

 

These text messages are often crafted to manipulate the recipient into taking a specific action, such as confirming a transaction or clicking on a malicious link. The goal is to engage the victim and convince them to follow fraudulent instructions.

If a phone call is answered, scammers will impersonate bank personnel, claiming to be from the “fraud or security department.” They will appear as if they are there to help but, in truth, their intentions are to obtain access to online banking accounts. They do this by seeking login details, such as usernames and passwords, gathering personal identification data and account numbers, or persuading victims to make payments to rectify an alleged “issue.”

Be prudent when answering a call from an unknown entity, person, or company, especially following a suspicious text message. If you are asked for any of the following information, STOP and hang up.

Sawyer Savings Staff will never ask for the following:

  • Digital Banking remote access
  • Username for Digital Banking
  • Password for Digital Banking
  • Social Security Numbers (in entirety)
  • One-time passcodes
  • To download any app or software so that you can share your screen
  • Debit or Credit Card PIN numbers
  • Full Debit or Credit Card numbers
  • Mother’s maiden name, street you grew up on, or any other security related questions and answers

 

Tips to Prevent Text Scams

Fraudsters convince people to provide these sensitive pieces of information under the guise of helping to solve the issue or concern. The following tips can help you avoid becoming a victim of a Text Scam:

    • Always be wary of any caller, even if you recognize the Caller ID. Exercise sound judgment when receiving and responding to text messages, even if you believe you recognize the Sender ID. Fraudsters can spoof bank and financial institution contact numbers to appear legitimate. If you think it is your bank calling, find contact information through the bank’s legitimate website. For Sawyer Savings Bank, contact information is found at Contact Us:
  • Do not click on links in text messages or emails. Instead, visit the financial institution’s website or log in to your Digital Banking through the application on your cellphone. Exercise caution when you receive a text message with a link, even from known contacts. If a link in a text directs you to enter your personal identifying information (e.g. Digital Banking User ID/Password, Social Security Number), do not enter. Instead, go to a known location (e.g. your financial institution’s App or Website) to complete any intended tasks.
  • Financial institutions will never pressure you into taking immediate action. Stop, take a minute, and think through what is being asked of you. Exercise caution and restraint when a text message is directing you to take immediate action on an “urgent” matter. Your financial institution will never act in a manner that creates a sense of immediacy or urgency and will always allow you the time and information needed to make informed decisions.
  • Never provide any verification codes verbally over the phone. This is a tactic used by fraudsters so they can gain access to your account. Verification codes should only ever be entered manually on the website to confirm your identity.
  • Never use the phone number provided in the text message or email to call. Refer to the contact information on your financial institution’s website, your bank/ monthly statement, or debit or credit card when initiating communications to your financial institution.

 

Learn to block and report unwanted texts:

How To Block Unwanted Calls | Consumer Advice (ftc.gov)

How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages | Consumer Advice (ftc.gov)

Jennifer Gutheil-Denier, CFMP Promoted to SVP and Chief Operating Officer.

Jennifer Gutheil-Denier, Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer, and Customer Experience Officer
Jennifer Gutheil-Denier, Senior Vice President, Chief Operations Officer

Sawyer Savings Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Jennifer Gutheil-Denier, CFMP to Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO). In her new role Ms. Gutheil-Denier will continue to oversee bank wide Customer Experience, Deposit Retail Branch Operations, Loan Servicing and Marketing, while now also leading the Commercial and Residential Lending departments.

“I am grateful for the confidence Mr. Whitaker and the board have placed in me,” said Gutheil-Denier. “I look forward to advancing the Bank’s growth strategy while providing operational support to both our employees and customers. My experience in the financial service industry over more than two decades, combined with my tenure at Sawyer, provides a solid foundation to drive both customer and community engagement to foster long-term growth.  Plans to evaluate our current procedures and implement new systems and metrics for future success are already underway”

Jenn will continue to report to James Whitaker, President and CEO of Sawyer Savings Bank, and will be responsible for managing a comprehensive range of financial products and services. She will play a key role in directing bank operations, aiding the Bank’s mission and achieve its long-term objective of sustaining independence as a Mutual Savings Bank.

“Jenn has consistently translated our vision for increased reach, impact, and community leadership into meaningful and measurable actions,” said James Whitaker. “I firmly believe that she will continue to impress me and the board with her ability to identify and manage operational risks, ensuring excellence in the service we provide to our customers and continued success for our Bank.”

Jenn Gutheil-Denier is a graduate of Saugerties High School, SUNY Ulster, Ulster Leadership Development Institute (ULDI Leadership Ulster), and the American Bankers Association (ABA) School of Bank Marketing and Management earning a CFMP designation. An active member of the community, Jenn has previously been involved with local not for profits organizations such as Junior League of Kingston, the Saugerties Chamber of Commerce, Grant D Morse PTA, Saugerties Jr/Sr High School PTSA as well as other Saugerties Central School District community committees. She currently serves as a board member for The Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce, beginning as Treasurer in January, a member of Saugerties American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, Ulster County Italian American Foundation and the committee for the Dutchess/Ulster County Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Ms. Gutheil-Denier resides in Saugerties with her husband Anthony and children Anthony and Mia. In her free time, Jenn enjoys attending her children’s high school and college sporting events, hosting family gatherings and gardening.

Sawyer Savings Bank Appoints Ronald K. Myers as SVP & Chief Financial Officer

Ronald K. Myers, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Ronald K. Myers, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Sawyer Savings Bank is excited to welcome Ronald K. Myers as its new Sr. Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO). With more than 30 years’ experience in the local financial services and banking sectors, Myers will oversee a wide array of financial functions, providing leadership, financial reporting guidance, and financial compliance while positioning the bank for continued growth and success.

“Ronald’s extensive banking background and his strategic financial management skills will be invaluable as we continue to grow and serve our customers and community,” said  James P. Whitaker, President & CEO of Sawyer Savings Bank. “I am confident he will be an integral member of our executive team as we continue to expand our financial services and deepen our community relationships.”

With his foundation working for community banks, and serving as a financial consultant, Ronald possesses extensive technical expertise in managing, forecasting, analyzing and positioning financial assets. As a strategic team member, Myers will also provide essential insights to ensure that financial goals, capital management and profitability are aligned with the Bank’s broader business strategies and customer experience objectives.

“I am thrilled to join Sawyer Savings Bank and its motivated and enthusiastic team.  I strongly believe in the Bank’s mission of providing a customer-first mentality through its innovative products and services to better all the communities it serves.  With the experienced team members and Sawyer’s 153-year legacy, I look forward to helping the bank continue to improve its’ position with financial strength and growth,” said Myers.

Myers holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Siena College and is a New York State licensed Certified Public Accountant. Myers is actively engaged in the local community as an Executive Board Member of the Boys and Girls Club of Saugerties He has previously served as President of the Boys and Girls Club of Saugerties, President of Children’s Home of Kingston, Board Member of Kingston Hospital, and Board Member of the YMCA of Kingston and Ulster County.  Ronald K. resides in Saugerties, where he and his wife Maggie are raising their two children, Viola and Reid K.  When not working or volunteering, you will find him cheering at his children’s various sporting events.

Nicole Lowrey Promoted to Lending Officer at Sawyer Savings Bank

Nicole Lowrey
Nicole Lowrey, Lending Officer

Sawyer Savings Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Nicole Lowrey to Lending Officer. In this new role, Mrs. Lowrey will bring her experience in commercial and residential lending management and customer experience to support the bank’s continued growth and success throughout all Sawyer’s delivery channels.

With over 10 years of experience in the banking industry, most recently as Loan Supervisor, Lowrey has demonstrated exemplary leadership in loan processing, compliance oversight, and customer service. She has consistently delivered exceptional results, oversaw a lending team and ensuring the efficient management of loan applications and approvals. This promotion reflects her strong commitment to quality, innovation, and relationship-building.

In her new role as Lending Officer, Nicole will focus on expanding lending services, fostering deeper relationships with our customers and communities, while helping businesses and individuals achieve their financial goals through tailored lending solutions. She will also be responsible for assessing loan applications, conducting risk evaluations, and recommending credit decisions that align with the bank’s strategic vision.

“We are thrilled to promote Nicole Lowrey to Lending Officer,” said James Whitaker, President, and CEO of Sawyer Savings Bank. “Nicole’s passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences, being a collaborative and engaging leader, and with her deep expertise in lending practices make her a valuable asset to our team as we continue to enhance our lending capabilities.”

“It is rewarding to be part of a team that works extremely hard to provide our customers and our communities with competitive lending products and great service,” said Lowrey. “There is no better feeling than helping someone achieve their dream of buying a home or starting a business where I live and raise a family.”

Mrs. Lowrey is a very involved member of the community where she and her husband Jon are raising two children Cierra and Bradley. She currently is a board member for the Saugerties Outlaws Youth Football league and an active volunteer with her daughter’s Girl Scout troop and her local volunteer fire department.

Sawyer Savings Bank Names Alyssa Miller as Highland Branch Manager

Alyssa Miller, Branch Manager. Highland
Alyssa Miller, Branch Manager, Highland

Sawyer Savings Bank welcomes Alyssa Miller as the new Highland Branch manager. Ms. Miller started her banking career in the Hudson Valley in 2018. In this role, Ms. Miller will be responsible for overseeing all day-to-day banking operations as well as providing leadership to branch staff and creating meaningful and lasting customer relationships. She will also focus on employee training, branch growth, and community engagement.

Jennifer Gutheil-Denier, SVP CXO & CMO said “We are excited to have Alyssa join our team.  With a proven track record, her presence will bring a fresh perspective and collaborative spirit that enhances our Highland branch. Her banking operations and Human Resource knowledge will also help foster growth and development for Sawyer Savings Bank and our employees.”

Ms. Miller is looking forward to the opportunities the new position presents, “I am customer oriented and love to work with and be in the community that I serve. I enjoy making a difference in people’s lives through tailored customer service that exceeds expectations.”

Ms. Miller graduated from SUNY Ulster with a Business and Entrepreneurial Studies associate degree and holds certificates from Ulster Leadership Development Institution (ULDI)  and  Certified Banking Professionals Program (CBP). She is committee member of the New Paltz Elks Lodge and has volunteered with the Family of Woodstock and Christmas Wishes of Ulster County. Alyssa enjoys cooking, gardening, planning her upcoming wedding, and spending time with family and friends.

Sawyer Savings Bank Welcomes New Branch Manager to Marlboro

Sawyer Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Penny Wilson has joined the Bank as Branch Manager at its Marlboro location. Ms. Wison brings over 20 years of experience in the banking experience to the position.

Penny Wilson, Branch Manager Marlboro LocationAs Branch Manager, she will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the day-to-day operations, business development, and community involvement through active participation in various civic and service club organizations.

“I was attracted to Sawyer Savings Bank as it’s a true local community bank with a long history of investing back into the communities that it serves, reflecting my belief of giving back to the communities that I work in,” said Ms. Wilson.

“We look forward to working with Penny as she oversees our Marlboro branch’s activities. I anticipate that her valuable years of experience, leadership skills, and professionalism will continue to provide a customer experience that our customers have become accustomed to,” said Sawyer Savings Bank CMO and CXO Jennifer Gutheil-Denier.

Ms. Wilson holds an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in business management and administration, both from Mount Saint Mary College, and has been a strong supporter of Junior Achievement of Northeastern New York and the United Way of Ulster County. In her free time, she enjoys taking weekend road trips with family and friends.

Message from the President: Employee Retention Credit (ERC) Scams are on the rise.

Recently, the number of scams has increased involving the Employee Retention Credit (ERC), a refundable tax credit for some businesses and tax-exempt organizations that were affected during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Scammers are using the publicly available information of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applicants to contact by them by phone, letter, email, and texts offering  to obtain the ERC on their behalf. However, the only way to file for the ERC is on a federal employment tax return. Any solicitation by a third party to file for ERC on someone’s behalf results in potentially stealing someone’s identity, charging exorbitant fees by “helping” the business when they may not qualify, and the business could incur possible tax penalties for improperly claimed tax credit.

We want to assure our customers that Sawyer Savings Bank:

  • does not sell your personal information to third parties
  • will not contact you to ask to file ERC applications on your behalf

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at (888) 772-1871 or contact your tax preparer/accountant for more details. For additional information about the Employee Retention Credit and possible scams, visit the website page provided by the IRS: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/employee-retention-credit

For more helpful tips on staying safe from scams and protecting your personal information, please visit the Safety and Security section on our website by clicking here.

Thank you for your continued support.

James Whitaker, President
James Whitaker, President