Desjardins began his career with Acadia as a volunteer board director in 1995 and was named President/CEO in 2004. Under Desjardins’ leadership, Acadia FCU successfully navigated four mergers: three in the St. John Valley and one in Bangor, significantly expanding its reach and impact.

Desjardins’ tenure is marked by steadfast commitment to the credit union’s members and a clear vision for growth and innovation. When he took the reins in 2004, credit union membership was at roughly 4,000 with one branch, 17 employees, and $32 million in assets. Today, Acadia FCU counts over 16,000 members, eight locations with a ninth in the works, 89 employees and assets exceeding $363 million. He is also responsible for starting the credit union’s successful business lending program, among many other initiatives.

“Dave has given us over 20 years of outstanding leadership,” said Mary McCarthy, chairperson of the Acadia FCU Board of Directors. “On behalf of the entire board, I thank Dave wholeheartedly for his passion and commitment to Acadia FCU and our members. Dave has led with determination and kindness, ensuring that the credit union never wavered from the commitment and mission to invest in our communities. The legacy Dave leaves behind will forever serve as an example of the positive impact a credit union can have on the people of Maine.”

Desjardins’ impact extends beyond Acadia FCU. He has been an active participant in numerous credit union-related organizations and advocacy groups. Notably, he serves as a director of the Maine Credit Union League and its subsidiary, Synergent, having recently completed a term as chairman. He also served as a past director of Tricorp Federal Credit Union. His leadership and contributions have been recognized with several accolades, including being named the Small Company Business Leader of the Year by MaineBiz magazine in 2013 and receiving the League President’s Award for Outstanding League Volunteer by the Maine Credit Union League in 2019.

Reflecting on his retirement, Desjardins remarked, “Leading Acadia Federal Credit Union as its President and Chief Executive Officer for the past two decades has been an honor. I am always mindful of the financial impact Acadia has on our members, staff, and the communities we serve. Every decision I made was aimed at ensuring the long-term success of the organization. I am extremely proud of our collective achievements and deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our members, staff, and board of directors. Looking ahead, I am confident that Acadia FCU will continue to thrive and grow.”

Desjardins has no plans of slowing down over the next year. He is focused on contributing to several projects, including developing plans to open a new branch in Presque Isle, which will further enhance the credit union’s commitment to serving its members.

Acadia FCU’s board has named Joey Cannan, the current Executive Vice President who joined the organization in 2021, as Desjardins’ successor. Well-prepared for this role after years under Desjardins’ mentorship, Cannan is planning for a seamless transition. His dedication to innovation and member-focused service positions him perfectly to continue Acadia’s growth trajectory. Cannan aims to lead the organization into a prosperous future, building on the solid foundation laid by Desjardins.

Desjardins, Cannan, and the directors of Acadia FCU plan for a smooth handover, ensuring that the credit union remains committed to its core values and mission. As Acadia FCU looks to the future, the legacy of Desjardins’ leadership will continue to inspire and guide the institution. The board and staff are confident in the continued success and growth of Acadia FCU under Cannan’s leadership.