Webster First - About Us, Company Updates, and More /blog/category/webster-first/ Official website of 鶹AV Thu, 30 Jul 2026 19:27:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.2 Webster First promotes Colleen Carney to Chief Risk Officer /blog/webster-first-promotes-colleen-carney-to-chief-risk-officer/ Fri, 31 Jul 2026 13:00:51 +0000 /?p=6388 Worcester, MA – July 31, 2026– 鶹AV has announced the promotion of Colleen Carney...

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Worcester, MA – July 31, 2026– 鶹AV has announced the promotion of Colleen Carney to Chief Risk Officer. The appointment reflects the growing importance of risk management within the credit union and recognizes Carney’s leadership in supporting Webster First’s continued success.

“Colleen brings a strong and well-rounded background in banking, operations, finance, revenue management, and risk management.” said President and CEO John Thomasian, “As Webster First continues to demonstrate strong performance and sustained growth, the importance of a comprehensive and proactive risk management function has never been greater. I am confident that Colleen will excel in this important leadership role.”

Before joining Webster First, she spent 10 years at Flagship Bank in Worcester. She earned a B.S. in Business Administration, magna cum laude, from Worcester State University.

Carney joined Webster First in October 2007 as Spencer Branch Manager. During her tenure, she earned an M.S. in Management from Worcester State University and later transitioned to the Accounting Department as Assistant Vice President of Risk Management in July 2018. She was promoted to Vice President of Revenue in October 2020, and in January 2024 assumed responsibility for risk management as Vice President of Risk and Revenue. In this role, she expanded and strengthened the credit union’s risk management function, enhanced the work of the Risk Committee, and helped ensure that risks across the organization are appropriately assessed, evaluated, mitigated, and managed. She is currently pursuing an M.S. in Enterprise Risk Management at Boston University.

Carney said “I am honored to step into the newly created role of Chief Risk Officer and grateful for the opportunity to help shape this important function for the credit union. Establishing this position reflects our continued commitment to strong governance, thoughtful risk management, and long-term organizational strength. I look forward to working collaboratively across the organization to protect and support our members, employees, and community while helping guide sound decision-making and responsible growth.”

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New online banking updates to simplify your finances: Introducing Pay a Person /blog/introducing-pay-a-person/ Fri, 29 May 2026 14:30:51 +0000 /?p=6060 Quick answer: Webster First has updated its online banking platform with a new Pay a Person feature for...

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Quick answer: Webster First has updated its online banking platform with a new Pay a Person feature for instant money transfers. The update also includes an advanced Money Management tool for seamless budgeting across multiple financial institutions, alongside a redesigned interface for easier navigation.


 

At Webster First, we are committed to making sound, responsible financial decisions that empower our members. Part of that commitment means continually improving the digital tools you use every day. We are soon rolling out several exciting updates to our online banking platform including our Pay a Person feature. These enhancements are designed to give you better control over your money, whether you are splitting a restaurant bill with friends or setting long-term savings goals.

 

How does the new Pay a Person feature work?

The standout addition to our online banking platform is the Pay a Person feature, set to launch in July. This tool simplifies sending money to family and friends, regardless of what banking app they use. You do not need to worry about creating new accounts on third-party platforms. All you need is the recipient’s name and phone number to send them money, instantly.

Instant transfers

The Pay a Person feature allows for instant transfers, which is perfect for moments when speed matters. If a family member has an unexpected financial emergency and needs cash right away, you can deliver funds to them instantly. It is also incredibly convenient for everyday situations, like settling up a bill at dinner when you want to quickly pay a friend back for your share of the meal.

When you send money instantly between two Webster First accounts, the transfer is completely free. If you are sending money from your Webster First account to an account at another financial institution, there is a flat fee of $2.50 for instant payment, which the recipient will need to accept. If the recipient wants to wait a day and receive the fund via ACH there is no fee. Unlike services like Venmo that often charge a percentage of the total amount you are sending, our flat fee keeps your costs predictable and low.

If you do not need the money to arrive instantly, you can also send funds to friends through an ACH transfer for no fee. ACH transfers typically arrive next-day.


 

Frequently asked questions about Pay a Person

 

What is Pay a Person?

Pay a Person allows you to send money to friends, family, or others directly from Online Banking.

How much does it cost to use the Pay a Person feature?

Sending money is free. If the recipient chooses to receive funds instantly, a $2.50 fee per transaction will apply to them.

Are there alternatives to the instant transfer option?

Yes. There are three send options:

  • Instant delivery – fee applies
  • Next-day delivery (ACH) – no fee
  • Deposit to a Webster First account – no fee

How long do Pay a Person money transfers take?

  • Instant delivery typically arrives within minutes
  • ACH delivery typically arrives the next business day
  • Internal transfers are processed without delay

Who can I send money to using Pay a Person?

You can send money to anyone. The recipient does not need to have a Webster First account or download a specific peer-to-peer payment app.

How will the recipient know a payment was sent?

The recipient will be notified by text message or email with instructions to receive the payment. Standard message and data rates may apply depending on their mobile carrier.

Are there limits?

First 30 days:

  • Up to $500 per transaction
  • $500 per day
  • $1,000 per week
  • $2,000 per month

After 30 days:

  • Up to $2,000 per transaction
  • $2,000 per day
  • $3,000 per week
  • $5,000 per month

Minimum transfer amount is $2.51.


 

How can the Budget tool help with money management?

Inflation has had a significant impact on everyday necessities, making effective budgeting more important than ever. To help you stay on track, we have upgraded the budgeting capabilities in online banking with our comprehensive Budget tool.

This tool allows you to connect all your accounts at Webster First, as well as accounts you hold at other financial institutions. By bringing all your financial data into one secure dashboard, you can easily keep track of your overall spending.

The Budget tool automatically sorts your purchases into specific categories. This visual breakdown helps you see exactly where you are spending the most money each month, making it much easier to identify areas where you might need to cut back.

 


 

A better, simpler user experience

We want your online banking experience to be as smooth and intuitive as possible. We have updated the platform’s layout to provide a clearer user experience by adding helpful descriptions to various tools and rearranging menu options for better clarity. These subtle changes make navigating your account and managing your finances simpler than ever before.

 


 

Pay a Person Service Disclosure: Insured by NCUA. Member MSIC. The Pay a Person service (“Service”) is available to members enrolled in 鶹AV’s Online Banking platform. Use of the Service is subject to the Online Banking Agreement, Pay a Person Terms and Conditions, and applicable law, including the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA) and Regulation E.

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Upgrades to your online banking experience: Empowering you to plan your future /blog/business-online-banking-upgrade/ Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:27:23 +0000 /?p=6026 We are thrilled to announce the launch of our enhanced digital banking platform, arriving on Tuesday, May 19....

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We are thrilled to announce the launch of our enhanced digital banking platform, arriving on Tuesday, May 19. This update was designed with our community in mind, aimed at making your daily financial management much easier and more efficient. We listened to your feedback and built a platform that supports the way you live and work.

Rest assured that no action is required on your part to prepare for this update. All of your current online transfers, deposits, bill payments, and loan payments will remain completely unaffected and highly secure. Your money is safe, and your daily operations will continue without interruption.

When you log in on or after May 19, you will immediately notice a few helpful improvements. We want to walk you through the newest features so you know exactly what to expect, including seamless account toggling, unified summaries, and a fresh new design.

 


Toggle between business and retail accounts

Managing multiple accounts just became much simpler. You now have the ability to link your personal and business accounts directly within the business online banking platform. This means you can easily switch between your profiles without having to log out and log back in.

Business administrators can also grant this feature to other users on the account. This is perfect for local businesses with multiple owners who need the same level of access to monitor cash flow. Once your accounts are linked, you can log in with your preferred credentials and toggle between your personal and business profiles on both the web and our mobile app.

View a unified account summary

Keeping track of your total financial picture is easier than ever with the new unified account summary feature. You can now see both your business and personal accounts in a single, convenient view.

This works hand-in-hand with the business and retail toggle. Instead of checking separate screens or apps, you get a full, transparent picture of your finances as soon as you log in. Tracking your spending, checking your balances, and planning your budget can all be done from one simple dashboard.

Enjoy modern design aesthetics

Along with these new tools, you will experience a completely new, intuitive interface upon logging in. We updated our platform with a sleek, streamlined design that looks great and works seamlessly across all of your devices.

Whether you are working from a desktop at the office, checking balances on a tablet at home, or using your smartphone on the go, the experience will remain consistent and easy to navigate. The menus are clear, and the tools you use most often are placed right where you need them.


 

Look forward to a better banking experience

These changes are designed to empower our members and simplify your financial life. By giving you faster access to all your accounts and providing a clearer view of your finances, we hope to save you valuable time during your busy week.

We want to remind you once more that your money is completely safe. All of your existing payments, scheduled transfers, and account history will carry over automatically and continue without interruption.

If you have any questions or need assistance navigating the new platform, our local team is ready to help. Please reach out to our member support team at (800) 962-4452 or email commercialservices@websterfirst.com. We are always here for you.

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Webster First announces new Chief Loan Officer, Bryan T. Regele /blog/webster-first-announces-new-chief-lending-officer/ Mon, 02 Mar 2026 20:17:45 +0000 /?p=5955 Worcester, MA – February 27, 2026– 鶹AV is pleased to announce the promotion of...

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Worcester, MA – February 27, 2026– 鶹AV is pleased to announce the promotion of Bryan T. Regele to Senior Vice President and Chief Loan Officer, succeeding former CLO Talat Mufti. This well-deserved advancement recognizesRegele’s exceptional leadership, dedication to member service, and significant contributions to the Credit Union’s lending operations since joining the team in 2011.

“Bryan’s exceptional leadership and dedication to our members continue to uplift the standard of service at Webster First,” said John Thomasian, President & CEO of Webster First. “We are grateful for his commitment and are confident that, in his new role, Bryan will help drive our lending operations to even greater achievements.”

Regelebegan his career at Webster First as a Credit Analyst in Commercial Lending, where his analytical skills and strong work ethic quickly distinguished him. By 2014, hehad advancedto Credit Officer and Junior Commercial Loan Officer, completing the Massachusetts Bankers Association School of Commercial Lending and earning his certificate that same year. His commitment to professional growth continued as he progressed to Assistant Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer in February 2018.

In 2019,Regelecompleted the National Association of Federally Insured Credit Unions Management and Leadership Institute program and was promoted to Vice President of Commercial Lending. Most recently, in 2025, he advanced to Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending in recognition of his outstanding performance and leadership.Hisexcellence was further acknowledged in 2024 when he received Webster First’s inaugural President’s Award, highlighting his exceptional contributions to the organization.

UnderRegele’sleadership, Webster First’s commercial lending department has achieved remarkable success. The Credit Union was named a top lender by Banker & Tradesman in 2022 and2023, andearned the distinction of being ranked number one in Massachusetts for number of commercial loans in 2025. These accomplishments reflectRegele’ssound understanding of the commercial lending landscape and his commitment to serving members.

In his new role as Chief Loan Officer,Regelewill oversee all lending divisions and their operations. He will work closely with current leadership during the transition period to ensure continued excellence across all lending functions. Throughout his tenure at Webster First,Regelehas consistentlydemonstratedthe values that define the Credit Union: financial strength, exceptional service, and a dedication to the local communities we serve.

About 鶹AV

鶹AV has been serving members throughout Central and Eastern Massachusetts since 1928. As a trusted local credit union, Webster First offers comprehensive banking services including checking accounts, loans, and mortgages. With a commitment to financial strength, exceptional service, and New England authenticity, Webster First provides members with secure, reliable financial solutions. Deposits are insured up to $250,000 by NCUA with additional amounts insured by MSIC.

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Webster First achieves Top Lender rankings in 2025 /blog/webster-first-achieves-top-lender-rankings/ Mon, 16 Feb 2026 15:00:21 +0000 /?p=5920 Worcester, MA – February 16, 2026– 鶹AV has been recognized as a leader in...

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Worcester, MA – February 16, 2026– 鶹AV has been recognized as a leader in Massachusetts lending, earning multiple top positions in Banker & Tradesman‘s “Top Lenders of 2025” rankings. These achievements highlight the institution’s strong contributions to both commercial and multi-family lending statewide.

2025 Rankings Highlights

 

#1 in Number of Commercial Loans

  • 31 commercial loans closed

#1 in Multi-Family Lending – Dollar Volume

  • $37,141,050 in multi-family loans

#1 in Multi-Family Lending – Number of Loans

  • 22 multi-family loans closed

#2 in Commercial Lending – Dollar Volume

  • $45,544,150 funded

#4 in Non-Purchase Consumer Loans – Dollar Volume

  • $67,264,864 in HELOCs and refinances

#8 in Non-Purchase Consumer Loans – Number of Loans

  • 205 non-purchase transactions processed

 

Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending, Bryan Regele, credited the lending team and leadership with the institution’s ongoing success:

“These achievements reflect the support of our leadership, the collaboration of our team, and a shared commitment to serving our members with practical, thoughtful solutions. We look forward to continuing this work and strengthening the value we provide to our members and the communities we serve.”

Webster First’s recognition comes as the credit union continues to expand its services and support for local businesses and homeowners. The institution’s consistent performance across a range of lending categories demonstrates its reliability and unwavering commitment to meeting the financial needs of its members.

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Credit Score is coming to online banking /blog/credit-score/ Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:53:38 +0000 /?p=5915 Financial wellness isn’t a destination; it’s a series of small, consistent habits. One of the most critical habits...

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Financial wellness isn’t a destination; it’s a series of small, consistent habits. One of the most critical habits is keeping a close eye on your credit health. But we know that logging into separate bureaus or paying for third-party services can be a hassle. That’s why we are thrilled to announce a major upgrade to your digital experience. Starting soon, you will have direct access to Credit Score right inside your online and mobile banking platform. It’s free, easy, and designed to put you in the driver’s seat of your financial future.

What is a credit score and why does it matter?

Think of your credit score as a vital sign for your financial life. It is a three-digit number that lenders use to evaluate how likely you are to repay debt. A higher score often unlocks lower interest rates on loans, better terms on credit cards, and can even influence whether a landlord rents you an apartment.

Knowing your score empowers you. It helps you understand where you stand before you apply for a big purchase, like a car or a home. Instead of guessing, you can proceed with confidence.

Features designed for your financial health

We aren’t simply showing you a number and walking away. This new integration is a comprehensive toolset designed to help you understand the “why” behind your score. Here is what you can expect when the feature goes live:

Daily access to your credit score

Your financial situation changes, and your score should reflect that. You will be able to check your current score every single day without any penalty. Checking your own score through our platform is a “soft pull,” meaning it will never negatively impact your rating.

Real-time credit monitoring alerts

Identity theft and fraud are real concerns. With our new monitoring alerts, you will be notified if there is a significant change to your credit report. Whether a new account is opened in your name or an inquiry is made, you will know immediately so you can take action if something looks suspicious.

Personalized credit reports

A number is helpful, but context is better. You will get access to a full credit report that breaks down the factors influencing your score. You can see details on payment history, credit utilization, and the age of your credit accounts. This transparency allows you to spot errors and identify specific areas for improvement.

Special credit offers

Based on your unique credit profile, we will highlight offers that you may qualify for. This could include new loans or refinancing options that could save you money in the long run.

Take control

We believe that financial clarity should be accessible to everyone. By bringing Credit Score directly into the app you already use every day, we are removing the barriers between you and better financial health.

Mark your calendar. Beginning February 17, simply log in to your online or mobile banking account to activate this feature. It takes seconds to set up, but the benefits to your financial peace of mind will last a lifetime.

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