Several credit unions, including JetStream Federal Credit Union and Royal Credit Union, announced promotions within their organizations, and The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates announced the names of those selected for the 2026 EPN LEAD Program.
New Hires:
- JetStream Federal Credit Union welcomes Samantha Sanchez-Cruz as its new Director of Marketing. Sanchez-Cruz brings more than five years of professional marketing experience, with a background spanning the hospitality and legal industries. In her new role, she will oversee the credit union’s marketing strategy, brand development, and member engagement initiatives as JetStream continues to grow and strengthen its connection with the community.
Recognitions:
- The League of Credit Unions is proud to announce that 12 emerging professionals have been selected for the 2026 Emerging Professional Network Leadership, Education, Advocacy, Development (EPN LEAD) Program. These emerging professionals from across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Virginia, have been selected to participate in this yearlong leadership experience designed to engage, develop, and connect the next generation of credit union leaders. The 2026 EPN LEAD participants are:
- April Morris, Heritage South Credit Union, Alabama
- Chris Fagan, Family Savings Credit Union, Alabama
- Claire Bowen, Emblem Credit Union, Alabama
- Trent Barnett, Fort McClellan Credit Union, Alabama
- Nevin Jackson, Center Parc Credit Union, Georgia
- Katie Martino, Trax Credit Union, Florida
- Keith Manze, First Florida Credit Union, Florida
- Madison Fath, Calhoun Liberty Credit Union, Florida
- Annie King, Park View Federal Credit Union, Virginia
- Frederick Hayes, Baylands Family Credit Union, Virginia
- Jaylen Boney, Chartway Credit Union, Virginia
- Oscar Garcilazo, Northwest Federal Credit Union, Virginia
Promotions:
- JetStream Federal Credit Union proudly announces the promotion of Yudel Arbella to Vice President of Information Technology, succeeding Oscar Gomez, who retired after 30 years of dedicated service to the credit union. Arbella brings more than 18 years of experience in technology and systems management to his new role. He holds a Master’s Degree in Telecommunication Systems from CUJAE University in Havana, Cuba, and has earned professional cybersecurity certifications, highlighting his expertise in safeguarding digital assets. Throughout his tenure at JetStream, Arbella has played an important role in supporting and advancing the credit union’s IT infrastructure. His technical expertise, collaboration, and the hard work of his IT team have helped strengthen system performance, security, and operational efficiency.
- Royal Credit Union (Royal) announces Grant Lokken as Branch Manager of its Hudson office. In this role, Lokken will oversee daily branch operations, lead and motivate his team, and ensure exceptional Member interactions.
- Municipal Credit Union (MCU) announced the promotion of Peter Neiman to Senior Vice President of Marketing, effective March 1. The promotion recognizes Neiman’s significant contributions to MCU’s growth, brand transformation and enterprise leadership.
- Hawaii State Federal Credit Union (Hawaii State FCU) has announced two leadership promotions within its Hawaii State Investment Services division. Sean Umetsu has been promoted to vice president, and Daniel Krase has been promoted to assistant vice president.
Appointments:
- Krystal Nunn, MBA has been named to the Board of Directors for the New Jersey National Financial Educators Council (“The Council”). Nunn currently serves as the Financial Wellness Administrator for American Heritage Credit Union (“American Heritage”) and is a champion and advocate for financial empowerment and education.
- Robins Financial Credit Union is pleased to announce the appointment of Jonathan Pitts to its Board of Directors. Pitts previously served on the credit union’s Audit Committee, where he provided valuable oversight and financial insight in support of the organization’s mission.
- The Indiana Credit Union League Board of Directors has appointed Andy Burggraf, CEO of CommunityWide FCU in South Bend, and John Newett, CEO of Indiana Members CU in Indianapolis, as new members of the League Board. They replace two directors who are leaving the board.