The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce recognizes Amy Arruda in our Community Proud series, sponsored by CorePlus Credit Union. Amy has called Stonington home since 1978 and has dedicated nearly three decades to her career at Washington Trust, where she currently serves as Senior Vice President of Retail Banking.

Amy’s professional journey is a testament to perseverance and growth. She began her banking career in 1997 at the Mystic McQuade’s location, steadily working her way up from Financial Service Representative to Assistant Manager, then Branch Manager, and later Regional Manager overseeing six branches. In 2013, she transitioned to Washington Trust’s Retail Banking division, where she advanced from Officer to AVP, VP, and ultimately SVP in 2018. “I started from the bottom and worked my way up,” Amy says. “It may have been less of a ladder and more of a jungle gym, but every step has been rewarding.”

Her role today is filled with variety—overseeing branch operations, retail training, and the call center. What Amy values most, however, is the opportunity to mentor others and share her knowledge. “I am most proud of what I can pass on to my peers, employees, and even those in positions above me. Whether it’s simple knowledge that leads to a successful outcome or an idea that becomes valuable to our employees, customers, and shareholders—it all matters.”

Beyond her career, Amy has given back to the community in meaningful ways. She co-chaired the Chamber’s Taste of Mystic event with local restaurants, and later served on the Stonington Economic Development Commission. During her tenure, she helped establish a full guide for doing business in Stonington, blending her professional expertise with her passion for community growth.

Her advice to young professionals is “Be confident enough to speak up about your goals and objectives. Don’t be afraid to ask for more guidance or coaching to succeed in your current role and beyond.”

 “Mystic just puts a smile on my face,” she says. Despite her children settling in Washington State, New Jersey, and Tennessee, Amy and her husband Ray, along with their pets Nova and Barkley, have remained rooted here. Together, they’ve embraced the adventure of empty nesting, though Amy admits, “It’s not as fun as we thought!”

When she’s not working, Amy enjoys visiting her daughters, running, and binging the latest limited series. She also finds joy in volunteering and draws inspiration from knowing she can inspire others.

“It’s an honor to be recognized in the Community Proud series,” Amy says. “I have a strong belief in giving back to our community in any way I can.”

The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce congratulates Amy on her many accomplishments and thanks her for being a great example of what it means to be Community Proud.