Industry Press
The Press Center allows credit unions and their partners to share important news and keep accomplishments front and center in the credit union industry.
Barbara Brooks, Teacher at Shriners Children’s Hospital in partnership with the Sacramento City Unified School District, Named 2025/2026 ABC10’s Teacher of the Year
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California and the largest serving school employees and their families, in partnership with ABC10 Sacramento and Sacramento State’s College of Education, announced that Barbara Brooks, a teacher at Shriners Children’s Hospital in partnership with the Sacramento City Unified School District, has been named the 2025-26 ABC10
SchoolsFirst FCU Partners with North Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce for 7th Annual Heroes in Education Awards Dinner
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union partnered with the North Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce for the Seventh Annual Heroes in Education Awards Dinner, recognizing outstanding contributions in education. The annual event, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce, honors individuals who support student success across local schools. Awards are presented in the following categories: Primary and Secondary
SchoolsFirst FCU Partners with Santa Maria-Bonita School District to Celebrate 2nd Annual Excellence in Education Awards Gala
SchoolsFirst Federal Union partnered with the Santa Maria-Bonita School District for the 2nd Annual Excellence in Education Awards Gala, held March 27 at the Santa Maria Fairpark Convention Center. The evening celebrated the achievements of district employees and honored the talent, dedication and passion they bring to Santa Maria-Bonita schools. Awards were presented in three
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Ranked #1 in Member Satisfaction by JD Power for the Second Consecutive Year
For the second year in a row, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union has earned the top ranking in the JD Power U.S. Credit Union Satisfaction StudySM, the most widely recognized benchmark for members’ experience in the financial services industry. SchoolsFirst FCU ranked #1 for overall satisfaction, a result driven entirely by its Members, California’s school employees
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Earns Seven Diamond Awards from America’s Credit Unions
The Marketing & Business Development Council of America’s Credit Unions awarded SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union seven Diamond Awards, one of the credit union industry’s most competitive annual marketing recognition programs. The Diamond Awards honor outstanding creative campaigns judged on both creative excellence and measurable results across more than 30 categories. Entries are judged by panels
SchoolsFirst FCU Partners with Friends of Sacramento Arts for the 2026 Heroes of Arts Education Gala
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union partnered with Friends of Sacramento Arts to honor educators and community advocates at the fourth annual Heroes of Arts Education Gala on March 12 at The Sofia, Home of B Street Theatre in Sacramento, Calif. The event celebrates the educators and leaders working to expand access to arts education in K-12
SchoolsFirst FCU’s Kristin Crellin Named 2026 CSUF Vision & Visionaries Distinguished Alumna
Kristin Crellin, senior vice president of community and Membership development at SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, has been named a 2026 Vision & Visionaries Cal State Fullerton (CSUF) Distinguished Alumni, the university’s highest honor recognizing alumni and community leaders for their professional achievement and service. Crellin was honored Feb. 28 at CSUF’s Vision & Visionaries ceremony.
National Association of Latino Credit Union Professionals Honors SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union President Jose Lara with Legacy Leader Award
Jose Lara, president of SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, received the Legacy Leader Award from the National Association of Latino Credit Union Professionals (NLCUP) during the annual NLCUP conference themed Sembrando Sueños – Sowing Dreams – held in Long Beach, Calif., Feb. 1 – 4. Lara’s leadership, advocacy and service have had a lasting impact on
Education Foundation for California Schools Awards $280,000 in Grants to California Educators
The Education Foundation for California Schools, a nonprofit created by SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union and the Orange County Department of Education, awarded 95 grants to teachers in California to support programs that inspire students to learn and excel in core subjects, including language arts, science, mathematics, foreign language and social studies. The grants, awarded in
Newsweek Names SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union One of America’s Best Regional Banks & Credit Unions in 2026
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union has earned a spot on Newsweek’s America’s Best Regional Banks & Credit Unions 2026 list for the third consecutive year, ranking among the top 500 credit unions nationwide. The recognition highlights SchoolsFirst FCU’s financial strength, trusted member experience and ongoing investment in California’s school communities.
SchoolsFirst FCU Raised More Than $3.3M for Children’s Miracle Network
I wanted to share some exciting news from SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union: in 2025, the Credit Union contributed more than $3.3 million to support Children’s Miracle Network hospitals, including Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Rady Children’s Health, and UC Davis Children’s Hospital. Highlights include a $3 million donation to Rady Children’s Health’s new ambulatory building in
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Lowers Down Payment Requirements to Expand Mortgage Access for School Employees
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, the largest Credit Union in California, is helping make home ownership a reality for school employees. The down payment requirement has been lowered from 5% to 3% allowing qualifying school employees in California to become homeowners in one of the most expensive real estate markets in the U.S. Recent data shows
SchoolsFirst FCU Spreads Holiday Cheer at Rady Children’s Health
A team of SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union employees sponsored a holiday gift giving opportunity for Rady Children’s Health in Orange County on December 18.
Los Angeles Mid-City Branch Extends SchoolsFirst FCU’s Footprint to 72 Branches in California
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union opened it 72nd Branch in Los Angeles on December 22.
SchoolsFirst FCU Expands Financial Planning Services for Members and Educators Across California
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union announced that its Third-Party Administrator (TPA) affiliate, SchoolsFirst Plan Administration, LLC, successfully onboarded a number of new school districts in California in 2025, greatly expanding its presence into new regions. As a TPA, SchoolsFirst Plan Administration helps school districts with IRS plan compliance, education and customized personal financial advice.
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Partners with Orange County Department of Education to Celebrate 2026 Orange County Teachers of the Year
I thought your readers might be interested in a great community story. SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union partnered with the Orange County Department of Education to celebrate the 2026 Orange County Teachers of the Year, honoring 62 exceptional educators and supporting finalists with special awards and recognition. I’ve included the full release and a photo below
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Wins Three Awards from the Marketing Association of Credit Unions
SchoolsFirst FCU was recognized with three MAC Awards this year for standout digital, direct mail, and in-branch campaigns. Each delivered major results, including a 43 percent increase in certificate conversions and a 412 percent jump in reactivated Members.
Redwood Credit Union and SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Host an International Delegation of Industry Leaders
TUSTIN, Calif. (Nov. 14, 2025) – Redwood Credit Union in Northern California and SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union in Southern California welcomed more than 40 credit union leaders from across Africa to their respective headquarters for a multi-day Learn & Share Visit focused on collaboration, community impact and cultural exchange. The visit was part of a
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Names Michael Pfau SVP of Digital Experience
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union has named Michael Pfau as its new Senior Vice President of Digital Experience, a role focused on enhancing online and mobile banking for more than one million Members. Pfau brings extensive experience in digital strategy, product development, and financial technology, most recently serving as Chief Digital Officer at Axos Financial. In
SchoolsFirst FCU Opens 71st Branch in California – Burbank Now Open
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union opens New Burbank Branch, extending its footprint to 761 branches in California.
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union and Sacramento Republic Football Club Honor Sacramento 2026 Teachers of the Year
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union recognized eleven educators as Sacramento County’s 2026 Teachers of the Year in an on-field ceremony at the Sacramento Republic Football Club game at Heart Health Park on Oct. 4. In partnership with Sacramento County Office of Education, the annual event spotlights local educators who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation in the classroom
SchoolsFirst FCU Partners with the California County Superintendents to Recognize Education Leaders Throughout the State
Photos available here: https://assets.schoolsfirstfcu.org/share/50C8B60C-1006-4552-8489351E8AA7D264/ Education leaders and county offices of education throughout California were recognized for their outstanding contributions to public education at the 2025 County Superintendents Awards Reception, held Sept. 30, 2025, in San Diego. The annual event, hosted by the California County Superintendents in partnership with SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, celebrated individuals and
SchoolsFirst FCU and Sacramento Republic FC Surprise and Honor 10 School Employees From Sacramento Area
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California and the largest serving school employees and their families, recognized 10 employees in the Twin Rivers Unified School District in Sacramento County as Classified Employees of the Year during a surprise ceremony. These employees represent various categories of non-certified, non-management employees who have gone above
SchoolsFirst FCU Recognized for Financial Education and Community Engagement
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California and the largest serving school employees and their families, received the Business Team Award from the Classroom of the Future Foundation, for the Credit Union’s longstanding dedication to the community, educators and the students they serve in the San Diego region. SchoolsFirst FCU also received
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Receives Four National Awards for Financial Education Initiatives from Credit Union Financial Education Network
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California and the largest serving school employees and their families, received four national awards for its financial education initiatives from the Credit Union Financial Education Network (CUFEN). Presented during the CUFEN annual conference held July 28 – 30 in Philadelphia, PA, CUFEN equips credit union industry
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Donates 3,200 Backpacks Throughout California
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California and the largest serving school employees and their families, delivered 3,200 backpacks filled with school supplies—including pencils, erasers, notebooks, and other classroom essentials—to 13 county offices of education throughout California, including the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE). In an effort to serve students in
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Raises Awareness for Children’s Hospital Orange County Through the 2025 CHOC Walk in the Park
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California and the largest serving school employees and their families, helped raise awareness for Children’s Hospital Orange County (CHOC), now part of Rady Children’s Health, through participation in the CHOC Walk in the Park event and a team member “T-Shirt for Kids Fridays” fundraiser. SchoolsFirst FCU
SchoolsFirst FCU Honors School Employees in Recognition Events Throughout California
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union serving school employees and their families, recently recognized 30 school employees, representing various categories of non-certified, non-management employees across four California counties. Nine of these school employees were also named 2025 Classified Employee of the Year by the California Department of Education.
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Supports Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Through Event Participation and In-Branch Fundraising Activities
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California and the largest serving school employees and their families, helped raise awareness for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) through participation in CHLA’s Make March Matter, the Walk & Play L.A. annual event and a “T-Shirt for Kids Fridays” fundraiser for team members.
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union Lobby to Support Healing and Hope in CHOC’s New Outpatient Tower
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, as part its ongoing commitment to Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), now part of Rady Children’s Health, has announced support of a nine-story ambulatory building designed to provide care for children and families across Southern California. In recognition of this donation, the first-floor lobby of the tower has been named
BCU EARNS 2026-2027 GREAT PLACE TO WORK CERTIFICATION™
Corporate Central Holds 45th Annual Meeting and Announces Board of Directors
Sharetec Appoints New Chief Revenue Officer to Drive Transformational Growth
Justice Federal Credit Union Announces Strong First Quarter 2026 Results and Continued Member Impact
Girl Scouts Visit Peach State Federal Credit Union’s Abbeville Branch to Earn Financial Literacy Badge
Tower Wealth Management Surpasses $1 Billion in Brokerage and Advisory Assets
Barbara Brooks, Teacher at Shriners Children’s Hospital in partnership with the Sacramento City Unified School District, Named 2025/2026 ABC10’s Teacher of the Year
CoVantage Credit Union Announces Appointment of Matt Kaudy as President and CEO
Chris Felton Receives One of the Credit Union Industry’s Highest Honors
$59 Billion State Employees’ Credit Union Signs with Corelation, Selecting the KeyStone Core to Enhance its Member Service Experience
$59 Billion State Employees’ Credit Union Signs with Corelation, Selecting the KeyStone Core to Enhance its Member Service Experience
Baker Market Update – Week in Review: May 15, 2026
Credit Unions Demonstrate Strength And Stability In First Quarter 2026
Gulf Winds Welcomes Pete Lauter as Vice President of Wealth Management
Coastal Credit Union Foundation Announces $300k in Grants for Q1 2026
Family Trust Foundation Hosts 18th Annual Charity Golf Tournament
From Risk into Readiness: An Inside Look at Vizo Financial’s 2026 Risk Management Conference
CUES Leadership & Organizational Services Brings Tailored Strategic Solutions to the Industry
NASCUS Opens Pierre Jay Award Nominations, Reveals 2026 Summit Agenda and Speakers
ALM First Welcomes Matt Motyka as Director, Advisory Services
Free May 30 mixer to help entrepreneurs market their businesses
Greater Texas Credit Union Promotes Lisa Back to EVP
Harvard Federal Credit Union Selects Arkatechture as Its Data Analytics Partner
Redwood Credit Union celebrates local entrepreneurs during Small Business Month
Baker Market Update – Week in Review: May 08, 2026
Hometown Bank Selects Square 1 Credit Suite by Suntell
Indiana Members Credit Union Announces 10th Anniversary Cancer Awareness Card Beneficiary
Fort Worth Community Credit Union Announces Name Change to Worth Credit Union
Coastal Credit Union Hosts Financial Education Field Trip for Title I Students at Coastal Music Park
Vizo Financial and TCT Risk Solutions Announce Strategic Partnership to Enhance Risk Management Offerings
BCU EARNS 2026-2027 GREAT PLACE TO WORK CERTIFICATION™
Corporate Central Holds 45th Annual Meeting and Announces Board of Directors
Sharetec Appoints New Chief Revenue Officer to Drive Transformational Growth
Justice Federal Credit Union Announces Strong First Quarter 2026 Results and Continued Member Impact
Girl Scouts Visit Peach State Federal Credit Union’s Abbeville Branch to Earn Financial Literacy Badge
Tower Wealth Management Surpasses $1 Billion in Brokerage and Advisory Assets
Barbara Brooks, Teacher at Shriners Children’s Hospital in partnership with the Sacramento City Unified School District, Named 2025/2026 ABC10’s Teacher of the Year
CoVantage Credit Union Announces Appointment of Matt Kaudy as President and CEO
Chris Felton Receives One of the Credit Union Industry’s Highest Honors
$59 Billion State Employees’ Credit Union Signs with Corelation, Selecting the KeyStone Core to Enhance its Member Service Experience
$59 Billion State Employees’ Credit Union Signs with Corelation, Selecting the KeyStone Core to Enhance its Member Service Experience
Baker Market Update – Week in Review: May 15, 2026
Credit Unions Demonstrate Strength And Stability In First Quarter 2026
Gulf Winds Welcomes Pete Lauter as Vice President of Wealth Management
Coastal Credit Union Foundation Announces $300k in Grants for Q1 2026
Family Trust Foundation Hosts 18th Annual Charity Golf Tournament
From Risk into Readiness: An Inside Look at Vizo Financial’s 2026 Risk Management Conference
CUES Leadership & Organizational Services Brings Tailored Strategic Solutions to the Industry
NASCUS Opens Pierre Jay Award Nominations, Reveals 2026 Summit Agenda and Speakers
ALM First Welcomes Matt Motyka as Director, Advisory Services
Free May 30 mixer to help entrepreneurs market their businesses
Greater Texas Credit Union Promotes Lisa Back to EVP
Harvard Federal Credit Union Selects Arkatechture as Its Data Analytics Partner
Redwood Credit Union celebrates local entrepreneurs during Small Business Month
Baker Market Update – Week in Review: May 08, 2026
Hometown Bank Selects Square 1 Credit Suite by Suntell
Indiana Members Credit Union Announces 10th Anniversary Cancer Awareness Card Beneficiary
Fort Worth Community Credit Union Announces Name Change to Worth Credit Union
Coastal Credit Union Hosts Financial Education Field Trip for Title I Students at Coastal Music Park
Vizo Financial and TCT Risk Solutions Announce Strategic Partnership to Enhance Risk Management Offerings
BCU EARNS 2026-2027 GREAT PLACE TO WORK CERTIFICATION™
Corporate Central Holds 45th Annual Meeting and Announces Board of Directors
Sharetec Appoints New Chief Revenue Officer to Drive Transformational Growth
Justice Federal Credit Union Announces Strong First Quarter 2026 Results and Continued Member Impact
Girl Scouts Visit Peach State Federal Credit Union’s Abbeville Branch to Earn Financial Literacy Badge
Tower Wealth Management Surpasses $1 Billion in Brokerage and Advisory Assets