LANCASTER, Ohio (January 5, 2024) – Judith M. (Judy) Root has announced her retirement from Fairfield Federal’s Board of Directors following a 50-year career with the Association. In honor and recognition of her outstanding commitment to Fairfield Federal and her passion for serving the community, Fairfield Federal has dedicated its conference room in the Main Office building in Judy’s honor and invites the community to use this space. Root will continue to serve as an advisory director following her retirement from the Board.
Root’s career began in 1973 as a teller. She went on to become the Vice President of Savings Operations in 1994, Executive Vice President in 2004 and President in 2010. Root retired from full-time employment in May 2018 and continued as a member of the Association’s Board of Directors until her present retirement.
“It is challenging to put Judy’s impact and our appreciation for her service into words. Her contributions are immeasurable to the Association, our customers and our community,” said Mary Snider, President of Fairfield Federal. “We wish her all the best in this well-deserved retirement and are pleased to have her continue to serve in an advisory role on the Board.”
During Root’s career, the Association brought its accounts “online,” endured the Savings and Loan Crisis of the 1980s, and introduced ATMs, internet banking and a mobile app to its depositors. As President, Root successfully led the Association through the Great Recession of 2008-2009.
In addition to a successful career at Fairfield Federal, Root is deeply involved in the local community. She has served on the boards of Habitat for Humanity, the Fairfield County Foundation, the Ohio University Lancaster Coordinating Council and Lancaster Festival. She is a member and past President of the Lancaster Rotary Club. She and her husband Steve have hosted over 20 Rotary exchange students from all over the world. Root was honored with the Athena Award in 2007 and the Floyd Wolfe Community Service Award in 2019 by the Lancaster Fairfield County Chamber of Commerce.
Following Root’s retirement, a new Director on the Association’s Board will be elected in early 2024. For more information about Fairfield Federal, visit www.fairfieldfederal.com. Follow @Fairfield.Federal.Savings.and.Loan on Facebook to stay up to date on the organization’s commitment to the community.
