Calhoun Banks proudly announces the retirement of Martha Haymaker, President & CEO for the past decade. With over 30 years of service with Calhoun Banks, she has led with vision and commitment, making history as the bank’s first female president. Her leadership has left a lasting impact on the institution and community.
A native of Mt. Zion, West Virginia, Martha’s path to success began at Glenville State College, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in accounting. She furthered her education through the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Colorado and the Graduate IT Management School at the University of Wisconsin.
Over Martha’s 43-year career, she has held senior leadership roles at Traders Bank, Poca Valley Bank, and Premier Bank, consistently demonstrating vision and expertise. At Calhoun Banks, she played a pivotal role in the institution’s growth, guiding its expansion beyond the original location. She oversaw the construction of new branches in Arnoldsburg, Elizabeth, and Glenville, and led the development of the new Main Office and Operations Center in Grantsville, completed in 2018. Her efforts were instrumental in Calhoun Banks earning the Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) certification from the U.S. Treasury Department, recognizing the bank’s commitment to serving the rural communities.
Outside of her professional achievements, Martha and her husband, Hays, enjoy traveling to national parks, supporting their grandchildren’s endeavors, and engaging in hobbies like reading mystery novels and crocheting. She remains an active community leader, serving on various boards and committees, including the Federal Reserve Bank’s Community Banking Advisory Council and the Community Bankers of WV. Martha will continue in a leadership role with the bank by remaining on the board of directors and committees.
Stepping into the role of CEO is Bruce Fitzwater, a seasoned banking professional with extensive experience across lending, branch management, and business development. Bruce has demonstrated strong leadership and a keen understanding of the industry, making him well-suited to guide Calhoun Banks into its next phase of growth.
“Serving as President/CEO of Calhoun Banks has been an incredible journey, and I am truly grateful for the support of our team, customers, and community,” said Martha. “As I step into retirement, I have full confidence in Bruce’s leadership. His experience, vision, and dedication make him the ideal person to guide the bank forward, and I look forward to seeing Calhoun Banks continue to thrive under his direction.”
Join us in celebrating Martha on June 20, 2025, at the Grantsville office. Stop by throughout the day to say hello and share your best wishes as we honor her contributions.
