New associate heads First Hope Bank's Andover office

Hope — Deena Marie Smith has joined First Hope Bank as vice president and manager of the Andover financial center. In this capacity, she will oversee Andover office operations and assist with business development. “Deena has a very strong background in retail banking, having worked as a teller and teller manager before becoming a branch manager,” said Donald D. Somma, Senior Executive Vice President for Retail Operations/Senior Lender. “Her strong customer commitment makes her a perfect fit.” Smith most recently served as Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager of the Bank of New York/JP Morgan Chase office in Wantage, Sussex County. Smith has received a Certificate of Completion from the American Institute of Banking. She also holds the New Jersey Life Insurance license and both Series 6 and 63 Securities licenses. She and her husband, Ray, reside in Wantage with their child. Her community activities include serving as soccer coach for the High Point Soccer Club, of which she was president from 2004 to 2006. She enjoys walking, coaching soccer and enjoying her family. First Hope Bank, established in 1911, is a full-service financial institution with locations in Andover, Blairstown, Great Meadows, Hackettstown, Hope and Sparta. First Hope Bank’s associates strive every day to fulfill the Bank’s motto, “World class service, close to home.” Visit First Hope Bank’s Web Site at www.firsthope.com, or e-mail the Bank at info@firsthope.com.