A growing town needs more than new rooftops and traffic lights.
It needs places where people can handle their money face to face, with someone who knows the neighborhood. That’s the gap PenAir Credit Union set out to fill with its newest branch in Panama City Beach, which held its official ribbon cutting on Tuesday, November 10.
Think of it like opening a hardware store in a town full of new homeowners. The demand shows up on its own, but the store only earns its spot if it’s close, stocked, and staffed by people who know what you’re trying to fix. PenAir is betting its new branch can be that for Bay County.
What opened, and who showed up
The branch sits at 11840 Panama City Beach Parkway. It quietly opened its doors to members on October 26, and the November ribbon cutting made it official. PenAir leadership, Board of Directors members, local officials, community partners, and members all turned out to mark the occasion.
Speakers included Derrick Aguilar, SVP and Chief Experience Officer; Lee Morgan, President and CEO; Stephanie Oram, Board Chair; and Panama City Beach Vice Mayor Michael Jarman.
Morgan framed the branch as growth with a purpose. “This new branch represents purposeful growth for PenAir. It’s about strengthening our ability to serve members and making sure each step forward reflects why we’re here,” he said. “That’s why Panama City Beach matters to us. It’s a commitment to be more present in our members’ everyday lives and to meet them where they are.”
Jarman spoke to what a move like this means for the city. “Panama City Beach continues to grow and with that growth comes the need for businesses that are committed, not just to serving customers, but becoming the community,” he said. “That’s what makes today so important. When a business chooses to invest in Panama City Beach like PenAir Credit Union has, it’s a vote of confidence in our city, our residents, and most importantly, our future.”
Giving back on opening day
PenAir used the celebration to present a donation to Girls Inc. of Bay County. The nonprofit gives girls a supportive space to learn, grow, and build lasting connections. The gift reflects Communerosity®, PenAir’s name for its core value of giving back to the communities it serves, with a focus on efforts that strengthen families and improve well-being.
Inside the branch
The design pairs modern technology with personal service, aiming for a space that feels welcoming and runs efficiently. It’s built for conversations as much as transactions, with room for financial guidance and support for the goals of individuals, families, and local businesses.
What to watch next
This branch is part of PenAir’s broader strategy to deepen its presence in Bay County and the surrounding area. The next things to watch are how quickly local members and small businesses take to the new location, whether PenAir adds more Gulf Coast footprint, and how its community giving continues to show up in the neighborhoods it now calls home.