First Hope Bank CEO honored

First Hope Bank president and chief executive Donald Somma received the 2024 Excellence in Banking Award from the New Jersey Bankers Association (NJBankers).

The award recognizes NJBankers members who have demonstrated long-term outstanding service to the state banking industry.

Somma, who has been president and CEO of First Hope Bank since 2016, has been part of the New Jersey banking community for more than 41 years.

He began his career at Howard Savings Bank before moving to Peoples Bank in 1989.

In 1993, he joined First Hope Bank as vice president of lending operations. He has been a director of the bank since 2012 and is vice chairman of the board.

“We are immensely proud of Don’s achievements and the recognition he has received from NJBankers,” said Dan Beatty, incoming president and CEO of First Hope Bank. “His exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to our community have set a high standard for all of us at First Hope Bank.”

The bank, which is 112 years old, has branches in Sparta and Newton among other locations.