OceanPoint Financial Partners, Mutual Holding Company
of BankNewport, Elects New Trustee and Corporators at Annual Meeting
OceanPoint Financial Partners, MHC, the mutual holding company of BankNewport, announced the election of one new member to its board of trustees and seven new corporators during the organization’s annual meeting held on Monday, April 21, 2025.
“We are excited to welcome this year’s newly elected trustee and corporators, each of whom brings valuable experience and deep community engagement to our organization,” said Jack Murphy, President and CEO, OceanPoint Financial Partners, MHC and BankNewport. “Their collective knowledge and commitment will help guide our mission of service across Rhode Island and beyond.”
NEW TRUSTEE:
Kelli J. Armstrong, Ph.D., of Newport, RI, is president of Salve Regina University. Dr. Armstrong brings decades of higher education leadership experience, including prior roles at Boston College, Tufts University, and the University of Massachusetts. She is a passionate advocate for educational access and equity, particularly for women and underserved populations.
NEW CORPORATORS:
David A. Altounian, of Newport, RI, is vice provost of graduate and professional studies at Salve Regina University. A former tech CEO and entrepreneur, Dr. Altounian has held leadership roles at Dell, Motorola, and several startups, and is an expert in strategic marketing and business development.
Brian E. Casey, of North Kingstown, RI, is the owner and president of The Oak Hill Tavern and The Company Picnic Company. A 35-year veteran of the hospitality industry, Casey has held numerous leadership roles with the RI Hospitality Association and the National Restaurant Association, including serving as Chairman of both.
Erin L. Donovan-Boyle, of Smithfield, RI, is president and CEO of the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce. Her work spans public service, consulting, and economic development, with a focus on strengthening Rhode Island’s business landscape and innovative ecosystem.
Hilary D. Fagan, of Providence, RI, is principal key sector account manager at National Grid and former president & COO of the RI Commerce Corporation. Fagan’s experience spans energy, equity markets, and real estate, with a focus on sustainable growth and corporate strategy.
Eric R. Gershman, of Cranston, RI, is a strategist and consultant in arts and culture management. His work includes senior roles at Disney Theatrical Group and Lincoln Center, and he currently teaches at Brown University and the University of Rhode Island.
Matthew A. Vargas, of Warwick, RI, is interim CEO of Emcore Corporation. A U.S. Military Academy graduate and former executive at the RI Commerce Corporation, Vargas brings international business experience and a strong background in defense and public service leadership.
Tony G. Weisman, of Narragansett, RI, is founder and CEO of SnapPoint LLC. A veteran marketer and former CMO of Dunkin’ and CEO of Digitas, Weisman now advises global brands and serves on several industry boards.
About OceanPoint Financial Partners, MHC:
OceanPoint Financial Partners, MHC, headquartered in Newport, Rhode Island, is a Mutual Holding Company. Through BankNewport, the Company is proud to serve the financial needs of families and businesses from nineteen branch locations, a community lending center in Central Falls, and a commercial lending office in Providence. OceanPoint Marine Lending, a business line of BankNewport, specializes in consumer marine and recreational vehicle financing programs.