Liberty Bank is accepting nominations for its 24^th annual Willard M. McRae Community Diversity Award. The application deadline is Friday, November 1 for organizations to be considered. The selected nonprofit will be recognized at a reception in 2025 and awarded a $10,000 grant from Liberty Bank Foundation.

Since 2001, Liberty Bank has presented the Willard M. McRae Community Diversity Award to individuals and organizations that have made remarkable and ongoing contributions to promoting and celebrating diversity, equity, and inclusion in the communities served by the Bank. It is named in honor of the late Willard M. McRae who passed away in 2016. He is past chairman of the Liberty Bank Board of Directors and a founding member of the Liberty Bank Foundation Board of Directors. A lifelong Middletown resident, Willard was known for his extraordinary commitment to equal access and opportunities for all, regardless of economic status, race, background, disability, or other factors. His contributions to children’s mental health, education, and human services made a measurable difference for thousands of people.

“We value diversity as a strength that builds more vibrant communities and our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion helps us better serve our communities and creates deeper connections,” stated David Glidden, Liberty Bank President and CEO. “As a diversity champion, we are committed to celebrating and supporting organizations that work to foster a future where there are no barriers to success and more equitable opportunities exist. Our annual Diversity Award helps us honor these noteworthy contributions that are uniting people and communities while advocating for acceptance and understanding of different backgrounds.”

Once again, Liberty Bank will recognize a nonprofit organization that is having a significant impact on achieving equity, social justice, or economic mobility for historically marginalized groups or economically disenfranchised individuals, with a vision towards creating more vibrant and inclusive communities. The organization chosen to receive the Willard M. McRae Community Diversity Award will have enhanced the quality of life of individuals by raising awareness that diversity, equity, inclusion builds stronger communities.

For the award’s evaluation criteria, eligibility requirements and to nominate someone for Liberty Bank's Willard M. McRae Community Diversity Award, by Friday, November 1, 2024, please click here to go to the nomination form. 

About Liberty Bank
Established in 1825, Liberty Bank is the oldest and largest independent mutual bank in the country. With nearly $8.0 billion in assets, Liberty has 56 banking offices across Connecticut and two in Massachusetts. As a full-service financial institution, Liberty offers consumer and commercial banking, cash management, home mortgages, business loans, insurance and investment services. Named ‘Top Workplace’ by the Hartford Courant every year since 2012 and designated a 2021, 2022 and 2023 Best-In-State Bank in Connecticut by Forbes Magazine.