Two employees who joined First Bank of Greenwich before it ever opened its doors were honored Friday, July 25, at a recognition dinner inside the barn at the Greenwich Historical Society.

Mark L. McMillen and Brenda L. Curcio each reached 20 years of service, a milestone that spans the full life of the Cos Cob-based community bank, chartered in 2006. Both joined while the institution was still "in organization," before it had customers or branches.

The Greenwich Sentinel Foundation has recognized the bank as Best Community Bank and honored President and CEO Frank J. Gaudio with the Greenwich Sentinel Award. Gaudio also received "Frank Gaudio Day" from the Sentinel in 2023 for community service.

The fully catered dinner doubled as an awards ceremony for staff across the bank's three locations in Cos Cob, Stamford, and Port Chester, New York.

Oscar Sylva won the Most Valuable Player award. He couldn't attend because he was at a graduation, but five managers had nominated him. "He genuinely cares about delivering excellent quality work," one nomination read, praising his willingness to take ownership of customer problems involving wire transfers and remote scanners.

Alexa Linksman received the Bank Whisperer award, given to an employee who exemplifies core banking values. Her nomination described her as knowledgeable and intent on improving procedures while protecting the bank's assets.

Bryan Santos took home the Taskmaster award. His nomination noted that he answers phones, helps customers, supports back-office work, and stays calm through competing demands. Kevin O'Connell was recognized in the new Job Well Done category for working quietly and finishing what needs to be finished.

The evening also marked service anniversaries: Damiano Alessandro and Patricia "Patty" Enright at five years, Emily Newcamp and Steven Murphy at 10, and Chief Lending Officer Evan Corsello at 15.

Gaudio told staff he views customer service as the bank's defining trait. "I eat, breathe, and sleep customer service every day of my life," he said.

The microphone occasionally became part of the comedy. At one point, a presenter looked toward the camera and said, "Did I just get so short? I need a box." The room laughed, the picture was taken, and the awards continued.