Friday, November 14, 2025
Stoneham, MA (NOV 2025) – StonehamBank Board of Directors recently feted former Chair of the Board Janice T. Houghton on her retirement.
Ms. Houghton joined StonehamBank in 1970 in a part-time position, became a full-time teller in 1974 and moved through various departments including Branch Management, Loan Servicing, Lending and Finance. She was appointed an Executive Vice President in 1994 and in July 1999 she was appointed President and CEO. She was elected to the Board of Directors in September 1999 and elected as Chair of the Board in May 2017, succeeding the late Stoneham Police Chief Eugene Passaro.
“Jan has served StonehamBank in many capacities during her fifty-five years here,” noted CEO/President Edward F. Doherty, Jr. “She knew every aspect of banking, she knew the employees, their families and her community of Stoneham, in which she has lived her entire life. She is respected in the banking community, and I have had the honor of working with her for more than 16 years during which she has been a guiding force in my career. She will be sorely missed as a friend, confidante and bank & community leader.”
In her role as CEO/President and as Chair of the Board, Ms. Houghton always focused her efforts on improving the Bank to meet the ever-changing needs of its customers and she was a driving force behind growing the Bank’s technology-based enhancements which ensured a positive customer experience every time.
Ms. Houghton serves – or formerly served - in a variety of roles in local organizations including Mystic Valley Elder Services, Stoneham Retirement Board, Rotary Club of Stoneham, Greater Boston Stage Company, Stoneham Chamber of Commerce, Zoo New England/Stone Zoo, Winchester Hospital and has partnered with the Stoneham Senior Center and the Boys and Girls Club of Metro North in some of their programming.
“Those who know Jan, know she has always been a strong advocate in our community,” added Sharon Iovanni, who previously served as Executive Director of the Stoneham Chamber of Commerce before joining the Bank in 2012. “She ensured that the Bank had a consistent and supportive presence in so many of the non-profits and activities held for the community. She encouraged employees to volunteer in a host of community projects and organizations, and she led by example. I learned much from Jan, and I truly value her friendship.”
In remarks during the Board’s event, Doherty added that StonehamBank is deeply grateful to Jan for her remarkable leadership and lifelong dedication. Her passion for banking and her love for the Stoneham community touched countless lives and her legacy will continue to inspire the Bank’s employees and customers for years to come.
About StonehamBank
StonehamBank is a full-service community bank offering state-of-the-art products and services to residents and businesses throughout eastern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. With over 138 years of banking experience, StonehamBank provides progressive products and convenience services, and believes in making a difference in the community through its Community Involvement Program and Charitable Foundation. Member DIF. FDIC-Insured - Backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. Equal Housing Lender. For more information on StonehamBank, please visit www.stonehambank.com or call directly at 888-402-2265. “We are Your Neighbors”