About Us
87 Years of Putting People First
Founded in Bedford in 1937, First Street Banking has grown alongside the families and businesses of our community — and we plan to keep it that way.
Our Story
First Street Banking opened its doors on a cold January morning in 1937, when a group of Bedford neighbors decided their community deserved a bank that answered to them — not to distant shareholders. Nearly nine decades later, that founding conviction still shapes every decision we make.
Founded by a group of Bedford residents on Great Road with a single branch and a commitment to the community.
Expanded mortgage lending to help returning veterans and young families purchase their first homes.
Launched small business lending, fueling a generation of local entrepreneurs across Middlesex County.
Introduced online banking — one of the first community banks in Massachusetts to do so.
Opened our expanded Great Road Village Branch, designed to serve the next generation of customers.
Surpassed 12,400 active households, remaining proudly independent and community-owned.
What We Stand For
Four principles have guided us since 1937.
Community First
Every loan we make, every account we open, and every decision we take is measured against one question: is this good for Bedford and the people who call it home?
Honest Advice
We tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear. Our bankers are neighbors, not salespeople.
Long-Term Thinking
We are not chasing quarterly targets. We are building relationships that last generations.
Local Accountability
Our leadership lives here, shops here, and sends their kids to school here. We are accountable to this community in a way no national bank can be.
Rooted in Bedford
Over the past decade, First Street Banking has contributed more than $2.4 million to local schools, food pantries, youth sports leagues, and civic organizations. Our employees volunteer thousands of hours each year — not because we ask them to, but because this is where they live.
Leadership Team
The people who keep First Street Banking true to its mission.
Robert Callahan
President & Chief Executive Officer
A Bedford native and 30-year banking veteran, Robert has led First Street Banking since 2008. He serves on the boards of the Bedford Community Foundation and Middlesex Chamber of Commerce.
Sandra Okonkwo
Chief Financial Officer
Sandra joined First Street Banking in 2012 after a decade at regional institutions. She oversees financial strategy, compliance, and risk management.
James Whitfield
Chief Operating Officer
James manages day-to-day branch operations and technology. He has been with the bank for 18 years and is passionate about making banking simple and accessible.
Maria Delgado
Director of Lending
Maria leads our personal and commercial lending teams. She has helped more than 2,000 families and businesses secure financing over her 14-year tenure.
Come Meet Your Bankers
Stop by our Bedford branch — we would love to get to know you.