October 9, 2025 by For the Item
New York, NY — Reading Cooperative Bank (RCB) is thrilled to announce that Julieann Thurlow, President & CEO of RCB, has been included in the 2025 edition of The Most Powerful Women in Banking list by American Banker, a prominent accolade in the financial services sector.
In its 23rd year, The Most Powerful Women in Banking program celebrates the women who are reshaping the banking industry through their leadership, performance, and influence.
“To excel as a leader in any sector, one must possess more than just an insightful strategy,” stated Holly Sraeel, SVP, Strategy and Content at American Banker Live Media. “It requires the ability to pivot and respond to significant changes that alter their operations. These banking leaders, who are women, are instrumental in influencing not only their organizations but also the lives of countless customers who rely on them for impactful solutions and services.”
Chana R. Schoenberger, Editor-in-Chief of American Banker, remarked, “This year’s honorees exemplify excellence in a challenging and unpredictable financial landscape. Their impressive results underscore the importance of strong leadership, resilience, and creative problem-solving.”
Shanna Cahalane, SVP Director of Marketing & Community Development, shared, “We at RCB celebrate Julie’s achievements and the innovation she consistently brings. Her influence is not only steering our organization but also paving the way for the future of banking.”
Cahalane added, “While this recognition is a testament to Julie’s contributions, she acknowledges that our dedicated team, loyal customers, and robust community are integral to our mission and success.”
The honorees will be celebrated at The Most Powerful Women in Banking Conference & Gala, set for October 21–23 in New York City. The event will feature a gala evening as well as a private Honoree Roundtable, and speakers and panels throughout the week.
This year’s Most Powerful Women in Banking awards take on a special significance with trophies designed by Tiffany & Co., known for crafting trophies for notable events like the Super Bowl and U.S. Open. Tiffany & Co. also hosted the photography shoot for the American Banker cover at “The Landmark,” their exclusive venue on Fifth Avenue featuring designs by Peter Marino.
For more information about the Most Powerful Women in Banking Conference and the women honored in the various rankings, please visit: the-most-powerful-women-in-banking.americanbanker.com/the-most-powerful-women-in-banking/.
To read more about Thurlow, visit: www.americanbanker.com/news/2025-the-most-powerful-women-in-banking-no-20-julieann-thurlow-reading-cooperative-bank.
About American Banker:
American Banker serves as a crucial resource for senior banking and financial services executives, providing timely updates on major developments while concentrating on the sector’s critical issues such as innovation, disruption, technology, and regulatory reform. Banking professionals rely on American Banker daily for in-depth insights, current news, and comprehensive data.
About Reading Cooperative Bank:
Established in 1886, Reading Cooperative Bank is a depositor-owned cooperative that operates with a community-focused mindset across the North Shore. With branches in locations including Andover, Burlington, Lawrence, Lynn, Lynnfield, Melrose, Nahant, North Reading, Reading, Wakefield, and Wilmington, it also includes teaching branches at Northeast Metro Tech in Wakefield (open to the public) and at Reading Memorial High School (exclusive to students and staff), alongside an online presence at readingcoop.com.
