Synergent Blog

The Maine Credit Union League and Synergent are proud to announce Jake Holmes as the recipient of the Denis A. Letourneau, Jr. Outstanding League Employee Award, recognizing his exceptional dedication, teamwork, and commitment to advancing the credit union movement in Maine. 

Jake Holmes

This award was renamed in honor of Denis A. Letourneau, Jr., a longtime and deeply respected employee of both the League and Synergent. Letourneau worked tirelessly to support Maine’s credit unions and the people they serve. Known for his strong work ethic, kindness, and willingness to help others, he truly embodied the People Helping People philosophy. Following his unexpected passing, the League and Synergent renamed this award to honor his legacy and the lasting impact he made on his colleagues and the credit union community. 

Jake Holmes exemplifies the values Letourneau stood for. 

Well-liked and highly respected throughout the organization and across Maine’s credit union network, Holmes has built a career rooted in service, collaboration, and leadership. He joined the League shortly after graduating from college, first serving as the Young and Free Spokester, then as the Financial Literacy Coordinator for the League and Synergent. Just over a year ago, Holmes earned a well-deserved promotion to Director of Outreach & Strategic Planning, a role in which he continues to make a meaningful and growing impact. 

Holmes has been instrumental in the success of the League’s Financial Fitness Fair program, a key offering for credit union chapters statewide. He also developed the financial education curriculum currently used by credit unions for students in grades 1–8, along with two volumes of adult-level financial education materials. His work has helped equip credit unions, their members, and communities with the tools needed to achieve financial wellness and long-term success. 

Strengthening the Movement Through Strategy and Leadership

Beyond financial education, Holmes has expanded his expertise to strengthen the League’s Strategic Planning services. By pursuing additional training and bringing fresh ideas to the table, he revitalized the program into a highly sought-after service that delivers real value to credit unions. He also has played a critical role in reinvigorating the League’s chapter system, providing governance guidance, ensuring compliance with bylaws, and helping breathe new life into chapter engagement across the state. 

While Holmes’ accomplishments are impressive, his colleagues often point to his character as what truly sets him apart. He is a trusted team player who willingly steps in behind the scenes to support projects, mentor emerging leaders, and manage relationships with credit union professionals—all while bringing humor, positivity, and a genuine desire to help others. He is the kind of colleague who would “drop anything to support a teammate, in or out of the workplace.” 

Jake’s dedication also has been recognized beyond the League, as he is a past MaineBiz 40 Under 40 honoree—an achievement that speaks to his leadership and impact within the broader community. 

In every way, Holmes embodies the spirit of the Denis A. Letourneau, Jr. Outstanding League Employee Award. His contributions reflect the very best of both the League’s and Synergent’s missions, and the people who bring them to life. 

“The Maine Credit Union League and Synergent are comprised of incredibly talented, hardworking employees––all of whom I respect and admire,” said Holmes. “I’m constantly inspired by the great work they do, so to be awarded this honor when there are so many deserving individuals means the world. This is a recognition I don’t take for granted, and I look forward to honoring Letourneau the best way I know how––by putting all my effort into supporting our credit unions and the members they serve.”