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A M E R I C A A T 2 5 0 | H A R T F O R D B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L 13 H ere in Connecticut, our economy has been shaped by the partnerships between people, businesses, communities, and in- stitutions. This collaborative spirit carries through to today. It creates opportunity, and it is central to our future. As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, it is a moment to reflect on how these partnerships, supported by a dynamic economic system, continue to fuel growth and resilience across our region. KeyBank has been part of this story for nearly two centuries. Our origins date back to 1825, when the Commercial Bank of Albany was founded alongside one of the most transformative projects in American history: the Erie Canal. At a time when many banks primarily served the wealthy, Commercial Bank of Albany took a broader view, supporting the merchants, small businesses, and individuals who drove economic expansion. This commitment to expanding opportunity has guided us through defining moments in our nation's history. During the Civil War, we advanced $3.5 million to help New York State meet a critical funding gap in support of Union troops. As the country established the foundations of a modern financial system, in- cluding a national currency and banking framework, institutions like ours played a role in bringing those systems to life and sustaining them. Over 200 years, KeyBank has grown into one of the nation's leading regional banks. Our guiding princi- ple has been consistent and clear: to help clients and communities thrive. In Connecticut, we live this purpose every day. The legacy of New Haven Savings Bank, NewAlli- ance, and Manchester Savings Bank—now part of KeyBank through the First Niagara Merger—reflects a long-standing commitment to this region and its future. We have been proud to partner with business- es, nonprofits, and civic organizations working to strengthen communities across the state. Since 2017, KeyBank has invested more than $1 billion across Connecticut and Massachusetts through affordable housing, small business and home lending, and transformative philanthropy. In Hartford, we've supported organizations advancing workforce devel- opment, youth entrepreneurship, technology educa- tion, and affordable housing. Across our national footprint, and here in Connecti- cut, our teammates are committed to making a mean- ingful difference in the lives of those we serve. As we look ahead, we expect the future will be defined by rapid change. From technological innova- tion to evolving workforce needs, the opportunity and responsibility for organizations like KeyBank is to help ensure that individuals, businesses, and nonprofits have the tools they need to succeed. Our history is not just something to celebrate—it is something to build on. It demonstrates that progress is strongest when institutions stay closely connected to the communities they serve and remain focused on expanding opportunity for all. America's 250th anniversary is both a milestone and a call to action. For KeyBank, it reinforces our commit- ment to supporting Connecticut's economic strength and helping the people and businesses we serve reach their full potential. The story of American enterprise is still being writ- ten. So too is the story of Connecticut and Hartford. Both are filled with promise, and KeyBank is proud to play a role in shaping what comes next. Expanding opportunity and thriving, together Matt Hummel is Market President and Commercial Banking Leader for KeyBank in Connecticut and Massachusetts. He can be reached at matthew_e_hummel@keybank.com. AMERICA AT 250 • LETTERS FROM CONNECTICUT'S BUSINESS LEADERS