Annual Ebenezer Burgess 1831 President’s Award

Since the creation of the annual Ebenezer Burgess 1831 President’s Award in 2012, much discussion and excitement ensues each year as to who the recipient will be. In selecting an outstanding employee, we consider activities and traits such as volunteer efforts, camaraderie, and “going above and beyond.” Through this process, the right name invariably rises to the top of the list and an exceptional winner is chosen and celebrated.

However, 2020 was different.

Less than three months into the year, COVID-19 impacted everyone’s life, both personally and professionally. Like other essential businesses, Dedham Savings had to pivot quickly to continue to provide excellent service to our customers as health guidelines and restrictions were put into place throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Old jobs had to be learned and performed in new ways as many employees began to work remotely. With social distancing, employees switched to serving and supporting customers primarily via drive-up windows, phones, and digital channels. All while maintaining health and safety protocols and supporting customers who were concerned about their financial stability during the uncertainty of a global pandemic.

During this period of intense activity and change, Dedham Savings also participated in the SBA’s (Small Business Administration) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) as part of the government’s economic relief package. At the same time, the bank experienced a record year for Mortgage volume, which was felt throughout the banking industry. This staggering loan volume meant late nights working overtime and many employees volunteering across departments to help process each loan.