Back/First United Corporation Prepares for Leadership Transition as Carissa Rodeheaver Retires
leadership·November 15, 2025·func

First United Corporation Prepares for Leadership Transition as Carissa Rodeheaver Retires

ED
Editorial
Cashu Finance·2 min read
TL;DR
  • Carissa L. Rodeheaver will retire as Chairman, President, and CEO of First United on May 7, 2026.
  • Jason B. Rush, Senior VP and COO, will succeed Rodeheaver as CEO starting January 1, 2026.
  • First United emphasizes continuity and stability in leadership to maintain its community commitment and financial success.

### Transitioning Leadership at First United Corporation: A New Era Ahead

First United Corporation announces significant leadership changes as Carissa L. Rodeheaver prepares for retirement from her roles as Chairman of the Board, President, and CEO. Rodeheaver, who has steered the company since 2016, will step down following the annual shareholders' meeting on May 7, 2026. To ensure continuity during this transition, she will assume the position of Executive Chairman starting January 1, 2026. During her tenure, Rodeheaver has championed community banking, fostering an environment conducive to innovation and growth, which has resulted in record financial performance and the establishment of the First United Community Dreams Foundation.

Under Rodeheaver's leadership, First United has prioritized digital transformation, significantly enhancing its services and customer engagement. She has focused on community involvement and education, launching initiatives such as the financial education platform, Finture, which aims to equip customers with the knowledge necessary to make informed financial decisions. Her commitment to integrity, community engagement, and shareholder value has not only solidified First United’s reputation within the banking industry but has also paved the way for sustainable practices that benefit both the company and its clients.

Jason B. Rush, currently the Senior Vice President and COO, has been appointed as Rodeheaver’s successor, effective January 1, 2026. With a tenure at First United that extends back to 1993, Rush brings a wealth of experience and operational insight to the role. His promotion signals a continuity of leadership philosophy, as Lead Independent Director Brian R. Boal commends Rodeheaver’s visionary approach and dedication to long-term growth. As Rodeheaver transitions to an advisory role, the company remains poised to maintain its trajectory of success and community commitment.

In light of Rodeheaver's impending retirement, First United's Board of Directors emphasizes the importance of a smooth leadership transition. The structure established by Rodeheaver and the continuity with Rush at the helm suggest a stable future for the organization. Rodeheaver’s legacy includes not just financial success but also a lasting impact on local communities through initiatives that reflect the bank’s core values.

With Rodeheaver planning to focus more on personal interests and family after her tenure, First United stands ready to embrace a new chapter under Rush's leadership, furthering its mission in community banking and continuing to build on the strong foundation laid during Rodeheaver's time at the helm.