NORWAY — Daniel Walsh was appointed chief executive officer of Norway Savings Bank on Jan. 1.

Walsh was named the 17th president of Norway Savings in September 2020 when Patricia Weigel, Norway’s then-president and CEO, announced that she would retire on Dec. 31. Weigel retained her position as CEO until her retirement. She will continue to serve as chairwoman of the bank’s board of directors.

“Dan has always shown tremendous leadership and support for Norway Savings Bank employees, customers, our community, and the bank’s culture,” said Weigel. “I’m very enthusiastic about the bank’s future under Dan’s stewardship.”

“I’m honored to succeed Pat Weigel in leading this incredible team of people,” said Walsh. “She has been a great mentor to me and I look forward to working with her for many years to come as she continues to serve on our board of directors.”

A veteran banker with more than 35 years in the industry, including 24 at Norway Savings, Walsh is well known in the community and has been involved in many bank mentoring programs, leadership groups, and committees.

Before accepting the position of president, Dan led Norway Savings Bank’s commercial team.

In conjunction with the leadership transition, the bank launched the “Patricia Weigel Pay it Forward Award” to honor Weigel’s leadership, dedication to community, and distinguished career in banking. Each year, a $10,000 donation will be awarded to a nonprofit voted for by the bank’s employees. Eligible nonprofits are organizations where Norway Savings Bank employees volunteered during the preceding year.

The 2021 recipient was the Maine Children’s Cancer Program, the pediatric oncology program of The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital at Maine Medical Center in Portland, where Market Manager Kyle Hodgkins serves on the board.

“It is such an honor for the bank to create this annual award in my name,” said Weigel. “Our employees made a fantastic choice when they voted for Maine Children’s Cancer Program to receive the first award. MCCP not only provides cancer treatment for hundreds of children, but also comprehensive support for their families.”