In recognition of Tim Geelan’s retirement in 2025, Ascend Bank has established the Geelan Family Fund with The Guilford Foundation. Seeded by Ascend Bank, the donor-advised fund will allow Tim and his wife, Melissa, to guide its future grantmaking.

“Tim’s leadership has left an indelible mark on Ascend Bank and the communities we serve,” said Kyle Eagleson, President & CEO of Ascend Bank. “The Geelan Family Fund is a lasting tribute to his vision and values—ensuring his dedication to community investment continues to make a difference for generations to come.”

The creation of the fund continues Tim’s longstanding involvement in local philanthropic and community-focused initiatives. He joined Guilford Savings Bank (now Ascend Bank) in 1994 after several years in commercial banking. Over the next three decades, he held a range of leadership roles before becoming president and CEO in 2014, a position he held until his retirement.

During his tenure, the bank expanded its assets and geographic reach and made substantial investments in technology, facilities, and employee development. Tim also played a central role in major organizational transitions, including market expansion and the rebrand to Ascend Bank. His leadership placed strong emphasis on developing staff and strengthening client and community relationships.

Tim’s community involvement extended well beyond his professional responsibilities. He joined The Guilford Foundation Board in 2006 and served as President from 2009 to 2011, providing leadership during a period of growth and increasing community demand. He recognized early that expanding the Foundation’s endowment was essential to widening its impact and helped catalyze support for hiring its first staff member, Liza Janssen Petra. Tim was also instrumental in establishing the Youth Advisory Group (YAG), which engages the next generation in philanthropy and community service.

“Tim brought both vision and leadership to our work at a critical moment in the Foundation’s history,” said Liza Petra, Executive Director of The Guilford Foundation. “His belief in investing in young people, growing local philanthropy, and building a strong endowment continues to shape our mission today.”

In addition, Tim led the bank’s efforts to establish endowments with other area community foundations, including those in Branford, Madison, and Middlesex County. His service extended to several other nonprofit boards, among them the Community Foundation of Middlesex County, Middlesex Hospital, and HOPE Partnership.

The establishment of the Geelan Family Fund recognizes Tim’s career achievements and supports his and Melissa’s longstanding commitment to philanthropy and community well-being. The donor-advised fund will serve as a permanent resource dedicated to helping organizations and initiatives that enrich the quality of life in Guilford for years to come.