Charlotte Adams

Charlotte Adams didn't take the conventional path to her current role — and that's precisely what makes her story so compelling.

"I started my career in software and later transitioned into project management," Charlotte shared. "My first role at First Merchants was as a project manager, supporting teams across Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Compliance, and Risk."

That cross-functional foundation proved invaluable. But it wasn't until Charlotte stepped into her current position that everything truly aligned.

"I never imagined I'd build a career in banking," she said. "But in this role, I get to lead, influence strategy, and help drive meaningful community impact. It's work that genuinely fills me with joy."

Connecting People, Purpose, and Impact

Charlotte now serves as Vice President and Corporate Social Responsibility Program Manager at First Merchants Bank, where she helps lead the bank's community impact strategy. Her work spans coordinating volunteerism, overseeing charitable contributions, strengthening program infrastructure across the CSR team, and advancing financial wellness resources for both employees and the communities the bank serves.

"At its core, I help connect people, purpose, and impact," she said. "I oversee our community impact efforts — and that's something I'm deeply passionate about."

For Charlotte, banking is fundamentally about service — and that belief fuels her unwavering commitment to financial wellness.

"I want people to feel confident and empowered when it comes to their finances," she shared. "I often think, 'If I had known some of this earlier, how different might my path have been?' That perspective drives me. Knowledge creates opportunity — and helping people reach that place is incredibly meaningful to me."

Showing Up Where It Matters

That sense of purpose extends well beyond the office. Recently, Charlotte volunteered at a local library through AARP Tax-Aide, helping seniors navigate the tax filing process with patience and care.

"I was nervous at first because it was new to me," she admitted. "But once I was there, I felt so fulfilled. Many people just need someone who's willing to be present, patient, and encouraging when things feel complicated. Being able to offer that kind of support is incredibly rewarding."

Charlotte's commitment to encouragement doesn't stop there. Within First Merchants, she is actively involved in employee-focused groups and is known for sharing thoughtful reflections and leadership insights that invite teammates to pause, reflect, and grow.

"I truly believe encouragement has power," she said. "Sometimes one word, one message, or one moment of support can make all the difference for someone. If I have the opportunity to uplift or encourage, I take it."

Rooted in Community

Outside of work, Charlotte remains deeply engaged in her community. She is active in her church, previously served on the board of Shafer Leadership Academy, and is actively exploring continued board service — including with the Black Chamber of Commerce in Fort Wayne, Indiana. When she's not making an impact professionally, Charlotte enjoys traveling, working on puzzles, and spending quality time with friends and family.

Through every role she plays — leader, volunteer, mentor, encourager — Charlotte brings intention, heart, and a clear sense of purpose to everything she does.

"At the end of the day," she reflected, "impact happens when people feel supported, informed, and empowered. Being part of that journey is what makes this work so meaningful to me."

Want to make a difference in your own community? We have open positions – find your passion: Careers With Us | First Merchants Bank

The Teammates in Action series features First Merchants teammates who embody the spirit and impact of the company’s Vision: “to enhance the financial wellness of the diverse communities we serve.”