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Eglin FCU News Archive
Quentin Youngblood Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union's 5-Star Employee Award for the 2nd Quarter
President/CEO Jerry Williams (right) presents the 5-Star Performer Award for the second quarter to Quentin Youngblood.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (July 28, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Procurement Specialist Quentin Youngblood has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 2nd Quarter of 2022. Quentin has been employed with the Credit Union since January of 2012 and currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
President/CEO Jerry Williams said, "Quentin displays exemplary leadership and dedication to members and fellow Credit Union employees. He has a wonderful, cooperative attitude and is an excellent team player."
Manager Kathey Mitchell added, "Quentin does a great job procuring all supplies and furniture for EFCU. He responds to department requests quickly and accurately and ensures our stockroom stays supplied with the items we need. Quentin often takes on additional responsibilities when he sees that something needs to be done."
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee exudes EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
"I appreciate the support and recognition from the people I have the pleasure of working with on a daily basis," said Quentin. "I enjoy working at Eglin Federal Credit Union and am happy to contribute to the success of the organization."
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Announces 5-Star Employee Award
EFCU Destin Member Services Counselor Tracy Goodman is congratulated by President/CEO Jerry Williams and Destin Branch Manager Susan Arnold for being selected as the 5-Star Performer for the 3rd Quarter.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Oct. 29, 2021) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Destin Member Services Counselor Tracy Goodman has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 3rd Quarter. Tracy has been with the Credit Union for seven years.
Destin Branch Manager Susan Arnold said at the award presentation, "Members flock to Tracy because she is knowledgeable, trustworthy, courteous and gracious. Tracy is known for her strong work ethic, leadership qualities, and humble attitude. She is always looking for opportunities to expand her knowledge and is committed to her coworkers and the members she serves. Tracy is a shining star, and very worthy of this recognition."
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee exudes EFCU's Five Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Names Laura Coale VP of Marketing and Public Relations
Laura Coale, VP of Marketing and Public Relations
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Oct. 29, 2021) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Laura Coale has been named the VP of Marketing and Public Relations. Coale brings more than 20 years of communications experience in private and public organizations to the Credit Union. In this role, Coale will be responsible for effectively executing integrated marketing initiatives to meet the mission of EFCU.
"We are very happy Laura joined Eglin Federal Credit Union as the new VP of Marketing and Public Relations," said President and CEO Jerry Williams. "Her experience in branding, change communication and creating award-winning marketing and public relations campaigns will greatly benefit the Credit Union's members and the community."
Coale earned her master's degree in journalism and mass communication with a public relations concentration from Kent State University while she was working as the media relations director for Denver International Airport. She earned her bachelor's degree in communication with minors in business management and decision sciences from Miami University in Ohio. She also earned a certified change practitioner certificate from Prosci.
Most recently, Coale worked as the communications director for the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners. During this time, Coale was recognized for assisting the US Attorney's Office and FBI on the NAS Pensacola Terrorist Attack. She also led the team to win the 3CMA Silver Circle Award for a digital interactive COVID-19 public relations campaign, and she led the public information efforts during Hurricane Sally.
"Eglin Federal Credit Union is recognized as a leader in our community, and I am very proud to join this extraordinary team," said Coale. "I'm looking forward to sharing stories about the incredible work employees do in the community and the benefits of the products and services available to members. Eglin Federal Credit Union has a long and rich history serving its members and the community, and I'm thrilled to be able to use my strategic communications experience to help the community in which I live."
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union conducts a financial fitness bootcamp for 100 Boys and Girls Club Crestview youth
EFCU VP of Membership and Community Development Neko Stubblefield and Financial Education Specialist Courtney Dollson taught youth about financial wellness.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Nov. 12, 2021) - Eglin Federal Credit Union partnered with the Boys and Girls Club of the Emerald Coast (BGCEC) and Hey Gym Friend to conduct a Financial Fitness Bootcamp for approximately 100 youth on Friday, Nov. 5 at Riverside Elementary School in Crestview.
"The kids loved every minute of the Finance and Fitness Bootcamp and can't wait until the next session," said John Bryant, BGCEC campus director, Riverside Elementary. "We are grateful to EFCU for investing their time in our kids and the community."
EFCU VP of Membership and Community Development Neko Stubblefield and Financial Education Specialist Courtney Dollson taught youth about financial wellness with lessons centered on ways to earn, save, spend and donate money. After Courtney and Neko facilitated financial fitness, the youth joined Tonnisha Deonn from Hey Gym Friend for a physical fitness workout. Participants also had a chance to win one of four $25 cash drawings from EFCU.
"We joined forces with the Boys and Girls Club in Crestview to talk about the essentials of finances, savings, donating and giving back to the community," said Neko Stubblefield. "We rounded it out with a fitness bootcamp to have fun. It's our way of giving back to the community by talking about those things that are important for future financial health. It's a great opportunity to start at this level to build healthy financial behaviors that will last a lifetime."
About the Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast Boys & Girls Clubs programs have taken Members from the Clubhouse to the White House; from the games room to the corporate boardroom; from the high school football field to the NFL; from a band room to Carnegie Hall. In every community, young people are left to find their own recreation and companionship in the streets. An increasing number of children are at home with no adult care or supervision. Young people need to know that someone cares about them.
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast offer that and more. Club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast is a safe place to learn and grow - all while having fun. These Clubs are the place where great futures are started each and every day. Learn more at emeraldcoastbgc.org.
About Hey Gym Friend Hey Gym Friend Founder Tonnisha Deonn created the HGF community after losing 150 pounds. Tonnisha is a certified trainer/nutrition specialist. She envisioned a positive physical environment where self-love and growing socially meet. She made it her mission to make health and fitness fun and stress-free. Hey Gym Friend is a no judgment zone. Positivity is the only requirement!
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Chief Strategy Officer Cathie Staton recognized for 35 years of service with Eglin Federal Credit Union
President and CEO Jerry Williams congratulates Chief Strategy Officer Cathie Staton for her 35 years of service with Eglin Federal Credit Union.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Nov. 16, 2021) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Chief Strategy Officer Cathie Staton for her 35 years of service with Eglin Federal Credit Union. As chief strategy officer Cathie manages strategic planning, marketing and public relations, membership and community development, risk management and compliance.
Cathie began her career at Eglin Federal Credit Union on Nov. 10, 1986. Throughout the past 35 years she served as a branch manager, opening the Crestview branch in July 1989 and the Bluewater Bay branch in May 1997. She was promoted to VP of Marketing/Compliance in January 2002 and was later promoted to SVP of Marketing/Compliance in May 2013. Cathie began her current role as chief strategy officer in October 2018. She oversees the coordination of the strategic plan and collaborates with the senior management team on project management. This past year Cathie spearheaded the yearlong Brand Refresh project with the Strum Agency.
"I would like to congratulate Cathie on her 35 years of service and thank her for her dedication to the employees and members of Eglin Federal Credit Union," said President and CEO Jerry Williams. "She makes decisions that are in the member's best interest while balancing compliance and risk considerations. In addition to her extraordinary experience, Cathie continues to shine with her positivity and enthusiasm to make Eglin Federal Credit Union the best it can be for members and employees."
Cathie states that she is grateful to love going to work each day, "I am privileged to work with a great team of dedicated professionals who are sincerely focused on our Mission."
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Participates in United Way Emerald Coast's 28th Day of Caring
Eglin Federal Credit Union employees painted and landscaped at the Emerald Coast Science Center in Fort Walton Beach supporting United Way Emerald Coast's Day of Caring on Jan. 14.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. - Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to once again support the United Way Emerald Coast's 28th Annual Day of Caring. Twenty-three employees painted and landscaped at the Emerald Coast Science Center in Fort Walton Beach and at the Crestview Manor in Crestview on Friday, Jan. 14. This year's Day of Caring aligned with Martin Luther King Day's National Day of Service celebrated on Monday, Jan. 17.
"In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., life's most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?" said United Way Emerald Coast's President and CEO Kelly Jasen. "Eglin Federal Credit Union's employees continuously exemplify a spirit of giving back to the community, and we cannot thank them enough. Painting in the Emerald Coast Science Center and the Crestview Manor was extremely helpful to our local partners, saving them time and money. It's a wonderful way to give back, which ultimately benefits the people in Okaloosa County."
Eglin Federal Credit Union has sponsored and participated in this event for over 17 years, and employees have painted, cleaned, organized, gardened and more to help fill the needs of our community.
"This was a special day for a number of our employees to help the United Way Emerald Coast with projects around Okaloosa County at local non-profits," said VP Membership and Community Development Neko Stubblefield. "We look forward to the Day of Caring every year and hope our service at the Emerald Coast Science Center and Crestview Manor has made a positive impact. Giving back through service is one way to enhance our community!"
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Mortgage Underwriter NormaJean Enlow Receives the 2021 4th Quarter 5-Star Employee Award
Eglin Federal Credit Union Mortgage Underwriter NormaJean Enlow
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 21, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Mortgage Underwriter NormaJean Enlow has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 4th Quarter of 2021. NormaJean has been with the Credit Union for over 12 years and currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
Along with President/CEO Jerry Williams, Mortgage Services Underwriting/QC Manager Mark Franks presented the award to NormaJean. He said, "NormaJean's work ethic and dedication are exceptional, and I do not use that adjective often. She always has a smile on her face, and she truly cares about our members as well as her fellow employees. She shows it in her willingness to help in any way, at any time every single day. Consistency is the word that comes to my mind. We are blessed to have her on our team."
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee exudes EFCU's Five Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Mortgage Services Operations Manager Ashley Hall and Mortgage Services Supervisor Christy Milian wrote the following in their nomination, "NormaJean Enlow is a 5-Star employee in every way. She is the ultimate team player in Mortgage Services and wears many hats in the department. There is no task too great for her to jump in (with a smile) and accomplish. NormaJean continually goes above and beyond what is expected of her. She radiates positivity and you cannot help but feel uplifted after even a short interaction with her. The Mortgage Services Department is lucky to have someone so committed to the job who is also a joy to be around. Congratulations, NormaJean, on an honor well-deserved!"
NormaJean was surprised and said, "Thank you for the nomination and award. It's a great honor, wonderful experience and a blessing to be given the opportunity to work with such professionals, wonderful staff and board who all have the best interest for our members."
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Upgrades ATMs in Niceville and Fort Walton Beach to Drive-Up Video Teller ITMs
The ATM near Niceville High School and the ATM at the intersection of Jonquil Avenue NW and Mary Esther Cutoff NW in Fort Walton Beach are currently being upgraded.
UPDATE August 23, 2022: Jonquil and Niceville Video Teller/ATMs are now open.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Feb. 16, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce the ATM near Niceville High School and the ATM at the intersection of Jonquil Avenue NW and Mary Esther Cutoff NW in Fort Walton Beach are currently being upgraded to add more services with the installation of two drive-up Video Teller ITMs at each location. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of March for both locations. LaMacchia Group is the design/build firm for the project.
"Eglin Federal Credit Union continuously looks for ways to enhance the community in which we live and work," said CEO Jerry Williams. "Members will have two additional convenient locations where they can speak with a live Video Teller. At the same time, the community receives the benefit of an upgraded look at these sites in Okaloosa County."
Members will soon have the ability to speak with a live teller over two-way video between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Fridays at these locations.* Video Teller ITMs also operate as ATMs 24/7 using an EFCU ATM or Debit card. Additional drive-up Video Teller ITMs are located at most of our branches. In the meantime, members can view nearby surcharge-free ATMs at eglinfcu.org/locations/.
*Video Teller hours are not applicable on holidays.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union to add a branch in Freeport
Rendering of new Freeport branch
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Mar. 25, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce a new branch will be added in Freeport, Fla., making it the first location in Walton County. As part of the Credit Union's growth and expansion efforts, property was recently purchased at the intersection of Riverwalk Boulevard and US Highway 331, south of the Publix shopping center. Construction is expected to begin in a few months and be completed in 2023. La Macchia Group is the design/build firm for the new Freeport branch.
Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said, "We are looking forward to engaging with members at this new branch location in Freeport. This location was selected to add convenience for current members as well as to grow membership in Walton County. The members of this Credit Union are our neighbors, our communities, and we are proud to help them achieve their financial goals."
The new branch in Freeport will be approximately 4,000 square feet with two ITMs (Interactive Teller Machines) in the drive-up and additional ITMs in the foyer and lobby. The branch will have safe deposit boxes, Coinstar, night drop and a member engagement area with interactive touch screen monitors.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union to add a branch in Pace
Rendering of new Pace branch
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Apr. 21, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce a new branch will be added in Pace, Fla., making it the second location in Santa Rosa County. As part of the Credit Union's growth and expansion efforts, property was recently purchased at 4413 US-90 in Pace. Construction is expected to begin in a few months and be completed in 2023. La Macchia Group is the design/build firm for the new Pace branch, the Operations Center and the recently announced Freeport branch, all expected to be completed in 2023.
"We are excited to announce that the National Credit Union Administration has recently approved expanding our field of membership to include anyone who lives, works (or regularly conducts business in), worships or attends school, and businesses and other legal entities in specific geographic locations within Escambia County, Alabama as well as Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties, Florida," Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said. "The new branch location in Pace was selected to add convenient and affordable products and services as well as financial wellness resources to a growing membership. We will look for opportunities to partner with local chambers and businesses to add value to their community and employees. We do more than build credit. We build community."
The new branch in Pace will be very similar to the Freeport branch design with approximately 4,000 square feet, two ITMs (Interactive Teller Machines) in the drive-up and additional ITMs in the entry foyer and lobby. The branch will have safe deposit boxes, Coinstar, night drop and a member engagement area with interactive touch screen monitors.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Kyle Tretter Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union's 5-Star Employee Award for the 1st Quarter
EFCU President/CEO Jerry Williams and Security/Facilities Manager present Supply Coordinator Kyle Tretter with the 5-Star Employee Award.
Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Supply Coordinator Kyle Tretter has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 1st Quarter of 2022. Kyle has been employed with the Credit Union since December 2020 and currently resides in Crestview.
President/CEO Jerry Williams and Facilities Manager/Security Officer Alan Campbell presented the award to Kyle. Jerry said, "Kyle's dedication to EFCU is evident in his performance. He is quick and responsive and goes over and beyond when things are requested from him."
Alan added, "Kyle is proactive in getting not only his job accomplished, but that of the mailroom without being asked to do so. He is always early to work and continually assists with extra duties. He is respectful to everyone he engages with and provides a helping hand to other departments when he sees their need. Kyle can be trusted and counted on to get the job accomplished, and done correctly."
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee exudes EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
"I was extremely surprised and honored to receive this award," said Kyle. "I really enjoy working hard and being part of the Eglin Federal Credit Union team."
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
EFCU recognizes Bluewater Bay Branch Manager Susan Coup for 30 years of service
Eglin Federal Credit Union Bluewater Bay Branch Manager Susan Coup
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (May 25, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Bluewater Bay Branch Manager Susan Coup for her 30 years of service.
During her celebration Susan said, "I love what I do and have enjoyed serving our members at EFCU for 30 years!"
Susan joined the credit union in 1992 as a Records Vault Assistant. She transferred to Member Services in 1993 before being promoted to Account Services, where she held numerous positions from 1995 to 2010. From 2010 to 2013 she served as Records Vault Supervisor before being promoted to the Call Center Operations Manager from 2013 to 2020. In 2020, she transferred to our Bluewater Bay branch and is currently the Branch Manager. Susan earned a BS degree in Business Administration and attended the Leadership Okaloosa Class of 2006.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
EFCU recognizes Senior Accountant Mark Sheltra for 30 years of service
EFCU Senior Accountant Mark Sheltra
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (June 27, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Senior Accountant Mark Sheltra for his 30 years of service.
"We'd like to thank Mark for his dedication and commitment to Eglin Federal Credit Union," said President/CEO Jerry Williams. "We appreciate his contributions throughout the years, which have helped us succeed and achieve our Mission."
During his celebration Mark said, "Thank you very much for this recognition. I am very proud to have served the members and employees of Eglin Federal Credit Union for 30 years. I am most proud of playing an integral role in the Y2K conversion."
Mark joined the credit union in 1992 as a Staff Accountant progressing to Senior Accountant in 2022. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting with a minor in Computer Science from Western New Mexico University and a Master of Public Administration from Troy State University.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Named Florida's Credit Union of the Year by the League of Southeastern Credit Unions and Affiliates
Eglin Federal Credit Union was recognized by the League of Southeastern Credit Unions and Affiliates as Credit Union of the Year for 2021 in Florida in the category of more than $500 million in assets. CEO and President Jerry Williams displays the award with the Senior Management team.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (June 28, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union was recognized by the League of Southeastern Credit Unions and Affiliates as Credit Union of the Year in Florida for 2021 in the category of more than $500 million in assets. LSCU & Affiliates selected Eglin FCU for our outstanding service to members and the communities we serve. The award ceremony took place at the 2022 Southeastern Credit Union Conference and Expo in Orlando on Thursday, June 16. Read the LSCU news release here. Watch the announcement here.
"Eglin Federal Credit Union is very proud of being named the large Credit Union of the Year in Florida," said CEO and President Jerry Williams. "We are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of members and in our communities, and it feels great to be recognized for our accomplishments from 2021."
"These projects came to fruition through proactive networking with community leaders," added Williams. "We live out the credit union philosophy of People Helping People."
Eglin Federal Credit Union continues to work closely with the United Way to give back during their Annual Day of Caring. EFCU has sponsored and participated in this event for over 17 years. Employees have painted, cleaned, organized, gardened and more to help fill the needs of our community. EFCU also partnered with the Boys and Girls Club of the Emerald Coast and Hey Gym Friend to conduct a Financial Fitness Bootcamp for approximately 100 youth on Friday, Nov. 5 at Riverside Elementary School in Crestview.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Breaks Ground on its New Pace Branch
(left to right): SVP Information Technology Tim Farnsworth, VP of Membership and Community Development Neko Stubblefield, SVP Branch Operations Kim Nauta, The Santa Rosa County Creek Tribe Chief Dan
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (July 6, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union held a groundbreaking ceremony today at its new Pace Branch location. This will be the second Eglin FCU branch located in Santa Rosa County. The Navarre Branch opened nearly 15 years ago. As part of the Credit Union's growth and expansion efforts, property was recently purchased at 4413 US-90 in Pace. La Macchia Group is the design/build firm for the new Pace branch, the Operations Center and the recently announced Freeport branch, all expected to be completed in 2023.
"On behalf of the Eglin Federal Credit Union Board of Directors, I'd like to be one of the first to congratulate EFCU on this new location. As a local, I am excited we will be offering the benefits of membership to the Pace community and beyond," said EFCU Chairman William "Bill" Rone. "I am also a proud 50-year EFCU member who can tell the story of how there are more than 122,000 members worldwide, assets are approaching $3 billion, there's no debt, and EFCU receives top grades on external audit and examination reports. Eglin Federal Credit Union was recently awarded Credit Union of the Year for the State of Florida in the $500 Million and above asset size by the League of Southeastern Credit Unions. I believe TEAM EFCU epitomizes our motto, Where Members Matter Most."
The National Credit Union Administration recently approved expanding EFCU's field of membership to include anyone who lives, works (or regularly conducts business in), worships or attends school, and businesses and other legal entities in specific geographic locations within Santa Rosa and Escambia Counties, Florida and Escambia County, Alabama.
Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said, "We chose this location in Pace to provide convenient access to affordable products and services as well as financial wellness resources to our current members. There are approximately 1,500 members along the Highway 90 corridor in Santa Rosa County, and we are excited to extend the benefits of membership to our new neighbors as well as add value to this community."
The Pace branch will be approximately 4,000 square feet and will showcase a new open branch design that features universal employees, a member engagement area with interactive touch screen monitors. This will be a full-service branch with safe deposit boxes, coin counter, night drop, touch screen video tellers and drive up ATMs.
Media may contact Laura Coale for video b-roll and audio.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union partners with Okaloosa Saves
Winners of the Teach a Child to Save campaign were presented a certificate by Okaloosa Saves at the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners board meeting on Tuesday, July 19.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (July 20, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union partnered with Okaloosa Saves for the annual Teach a Child to Save campaign April 1 - June 30. Youth were encouraged to set a savings goal and make a deposit into a savings account at EFCU. This year there were 90 youth under the age of 18 who participated with deposits totaling $18,685. Their names were entered into a random drawing for six children to win a $50 deposit into their EFCU account from Okaloosa Saves. Since the program began in 2004, there have been 2,172 children making deposits totaling $350,104.07.
The six winners were: Genesis Albright, Fort Walton Beach Dorothy Kollar, Fort Walton Beach Mason Mueller, Fort Walton Beach Nathan Smith, Crestview Ruby Smith, Mary Esther Soulina Sellers, Destin
The six winners were presented a certificate by Okaloosa Saves at the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners board meeting on Tuesday, July 19. Chairman Mel Ponder, District 5, said, "Wise money management is such a beneficial skill to learn. The knowledge our youth gain in the Teach a Child to Save program will positively impact them now, their future families and businesses right here in our community in the years to come."
Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said, "Okaloosa Saves has been active in encouraging people of all ages to save money for life events. We are proud to have partnered with Okaloosa Saves for 18 years to help teach children the importance of saving, and we look forward to this program every summer."
Sherry Harlow, APR, serves on the Okaloosa Saves Board as the Treasurer and donated $1,000 to help with the Teach a Child to Save campaign. Harlow said, "It is never too soon to start teaching children to save. Helping them to develop good saving and spending habits in their youth can carry over into adulthood, especially in having funds for emergencies."
Savings Tips for Parents:
Talk about the importance of budgeting and saving money
Visit your local EFCU branch to open a savings account or deposit into an existing account
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
EFCU Chairman William "Bill" Rone Inducted into the Defense Credit Union Council's Hall of Honor
Eglin Federal Credit Union’s CEO and President Jerry Williams (left) congratulates Chairman William “Bill” Rone (right) for being inducted into the Defense Credit Union Council’s Hall of Honor at their annual conference held in San Antonio, Texas on Aug. 4, 2022.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Aug. 9, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union's Chairman of the Board of Directors William "Bill" Rone was inducted into the Defense Credit Union Council's Hall of Honor at their annual conference held in San Antonio, Texas on Aug. 4, 2022. The Defense Credit Union is a trade association representing more than 180 nonprofit defense credit unions with over 30 million members and $400 billion in assets. Bill is one of three honorees who were selected from a very competitive field of nominees by the Hall of Honor Selection Committee. They were selected for their impressive history of service and dedication to their military and veteran communities and are part of a history of excellence that exemplifies what it means to be a defense credit union. Read the DCUC announcement here and the conference wrap-up here.
"I am very proud to be inducted into the Defense Credit Union Council's Hall of Honor," said EFCU Chairman of the Board of Directors William "Bill" Rone. "As a 50-year member of Eglin Federal Credit Union and a member of the Board of Directors since 1979, I believe EFCU epitomizes our motto, Where Members Matter Most. It's been my pleasure to serve the members and employees of Eglin Federal Credit Union."
William "Bill" Rone has served on the Eglin FCU Board of Directors for 38 years using his experience of over 42 years in DOD federal service to improve the lives of members. Bill advanced from a GS-04 civilian cooperative education trainee on Eglin AFB to a member of the DOD Senior Executive Service as Senior Civilian and Comptroller for Air Force Special Operations Command. He was recognized with Presidential Meritorious Rank the first year he was eligible for the honor. His career took him to Washington DC for a one-year senior military school, four years on Robin AFB and two years with Naval Aviation Depot in Pensacola.
An expert in all areas of financial management with base credit union and bank liaison experience, he served and supported hundreds of thousands of active-duty, reserve, Air National Guard, and civilian professionals throughout his career. Rone has attended many DCUC conferences, including in an official capacity where he presented the Air Force Credit Union of the Year Award and led the Air Force breakout sessions. He has also served as both President and Vice President of chapters of the American Society of Military Comptrollers and is a lifetime member. Bill is a member of the University of West Florida Foundation Board of Directors and a Director Emeritus of the Special Operations Warrior Foundation where he served over a decade as Treasurer. He is also the Executive Financial Advisor for the Air Commando Association and a Trustee for their Foundation. As a member of the Santa Rosa Creek Indian tribe he volunteers as Financial Advisor to the Tribal Council and Chief.
"I'd like to thank Bill for the 38 years he has served on our Board, including eight years as Chairman and seven years as Vice Chairman," said EFCU CEO and President Jerry Williams. "We appreciate his commitment to our local community and our Credit Union. Bill's laser focus on meeting the needs of the Air Force to accomplish the mission, and developing people in his 'day job' was equaled by his dedication to the credit union movement. He is always ready to lead or assist as needed, making him a perfect fit for the DCUC Hall of Honor Award."
The DCUC Hall of Honor was established in 2000 as a means of recognizing those individuals whose exceptional contributions over the years have made a significant difference to DCUC and the defense credit union community. This prestigious award highlights the outstanding accomplishments of leaders, volunteers, management, and staff alike, whose efforts and endless support of the credit union movement and DCUC epitomize the Council's values and philosophy of "Serving Those Who Serve Our Country."
"These three honorees represent what the DCUC is all about, serving our military and veteran communities and providing extraordinary financial services that help them build their financial wellness. I'm in awe of their great leadership and am proud to honor their accomplishments," said Anthony Hernandez, DCUC President/CEO.
"Our Field of Membership is growing and so are our branch locations," Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said. "The Credit Union is expanding our footprint to serve our current members closer to home as well as to provide convenient and affordable products and services, and financial wellness to a growing membership."
Members will have the ability to speak with a live teller over two-way video during our regular business hours. Video Teller ITMs also operate as ATMs 24/7 using an EFCU ATM or Debit card. Additional drive-up Video Teller ITMs are located at most of our branches. Find other nearby surcharge-free ATMs at eglinfcu.org/locations/.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union to add a location in Gulf Breeze
Eglin Federal Credit Union will install two drive-thru ATM/Video Tellers in Gulf Breeze.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (August 15, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce it will start developing a property located on the corner of Tiger Lake Drive and Highway 98 in Gulf Breeze. The short-term plan is to install two drive-thru ATM/Video Tellers in 2023. This will look similar to the drive-thrus currently being constructed near Niceville High School as well as the site at Jonquil Avenue NW and Mary Esther Cutoff NW in Fort Walton Beach, and the recently-announced location in DeFuniak Springs. Construction of a full-service branch in Gulf Breeze is expected to begin in 2024. La Macchia Group is the design/build firm for the Gulf Breeze and DeFuniak Springs locations as well as the upcoming Freeport Branch, the upcoming Pace Branch, and the Operations Center.
"The Credit Union is expanding our footprint to provide convenient and affordable products and services, and financial wellness to a growing membership," Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said. "We opened the Navarre Branch in 2007, the Pace Branch is under construction, and we are looking forward to adding Gulf Breeze as a third location in Santa Rosa County for members."
Members will have the ability to speak with a live teller over two-way video during our regular business hours. Video Teller ITMs also operate as ATMs 24/7 using an EFCU ATM or Debit card. Additional drive-thru Video Teller ITMs are located at most of our branches. Find other nearby surcharge-free ATMs at eglinfcu.org/locations/.
VP Membership and Community Development Neko Stubblefield added, "Membership is now open to those who live, work, worship, attend school and volunteer in specific geographic locations within Santa Rosa and Escambia Counties, Florida and Escambia County, Alabama. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Santa Rosa County residents and businesses as well as forming partnerships with nearby communities."
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union breaks ground on its new Freeport Branch
Eglin Federal Credit Union breaks ground on its new Freeport Branch. (left to right): Ralph La Macchia, Chairman of the La Macchia Group; Mary Lou La Macchia, Vice Chair of the La Macchia Group; Freeport City Manager Mark Martin; Freeport Mayor Russ Barley; EFCU Board Secretary/Treasurer Bob Harlan; EFCU Board Chairman Bill Rone; EFCU President/CEO Jerry Williams; Tom Kennedy, President of the La Macchia Group; Dave Throndson, La Macchia Group Senior VP of Sales; EFCU Chief Strategy Officer Cathie Staton; EFCU Chief Operations Officer Kenny Girot; La Macchia Group Field Superintendent Joe Broussard
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (August 30, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union held a groundbreaking ceremony today at its new Freeport Branch, making it EFCU’s first location in Walton County. As part of the Credit Union’s growth and expansion efforts, property was recently purchased at intersection of Riverwalk Boulevard and US Highway 331, south of the Publix shopping center in Freeport. La Macchia Group is the design/build firm for the new Freeport Branch, the upcoming Pace Branch, the Operations Center and the recently-announced DeFuniak Springs and Gulf Breeze locations.
"On behalf of the Eglin Federal Credit Union Board of Directors, we are very proud to start on the construction for our first branch in Walton County,” said EFCU Chairman William “Bill” Rone. “I am excited we will be offering our current members this convenient location and also to extend the benefits of membership to the Freeport community.”
Last year Eglin Federal Credit Union added specific geographic locations in northern and central Walton County to its field of membership. Eligibility extends to persons who live, work (or regularly conducts business in), worship, or attend school in, and businesses and other legal entities located within the approved seven census tracts in Walton County. Learn how you are eligible to become an EFCU member..
Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said, “Walton County is one of the fastest growing counties in Florida and in the nation. We chose this convenient location in Freeport as part of our growth strategy surrounding Eglin Air Force Base. Currently, there are about 10,000 members living in Freeport and Defuniak Springs. We are excited to be able to offer our current members this convenient location, and we look forward to extending the benefits of membership to our new neighbors in Walton County. We also look forward to getting engaged with the Walton County Chamber of Commerce and to forming new partnerships with businesses to offer financial wellness resources to their members and employees.”
The Freeport Branch, expected to be completed in 2023, will be approximately 4,000 square feet and will showcase a new open branch design that features universal employees, a member engagement area with interactive touch screen monitors. This will be a full-service branch with safe deposit boxes, coin counter, night drop, touch screen video tellers and drive up ATMs.
Media may contact Laura Coale for video b-roll and audio.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Account Services Administrative Assistant Vicki Hollon for 35 years of service
Pictured left to right: Call Center Operations Manager Ruth Fennell, President/CEO Jerry Williams, Account Services Administrative Assistant Vicki Hollon, Account Services Manager Adam Dudney
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 30, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Account Services Administrative Assistant Vicki Hollon of Fort Walton Beach for her 35 years of service to the Credit Union.
“We congratulate Vicki on 35 years of dedication to Eglin Federal Credit Union and excellent service to our members,” said SVP of Branch Operations Kim Nauta. “We appreciate her contributions throughout the years, which have helped us develop trusted and long-lasting relationships with our members.”
During her celebration Vicki said, “I have so much respect for EFCU and the people I work with. I love working here. The time has flown by, I’ve made many friends here, and it’s been a wonderful career. I’m very proud to work here.”
Vicki joined the Credit Union in 1987 as a Records Vault Clerk. She transferred to Members Services in 1992 and progressed from Member Services Rep to Member Services Supervisor before moving to her current role as Account Services Administrative Assistant.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union named 2022 Finest on the Emerald Coast in four categories
Eglin Federal Credit Union named 2022 Finest on the Emerald Coast in four categories
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Sept. 28, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union was voted best Credit Union, Financial Planning Services, Mortgage Lending Company and Personal Loan/Title Company in the 2022 Finest on the Emerald Coast’s Official Community Choice Awards. Locals choose the best businesses in town through nominations and voting.Read the announcement.
Eglin Federal Credit Union has won a community’s choice award every year since the Northwest Florida Daily News started the competition in 2010.
“Eglin Federal Credit Union is very proud our community voted us best Credit Union, Financial Planning Services, Mortgage Lending Company and Personal Loan/Title Company,” said CEO and President Jerry Williams. “We are committed to providing five-star service, support and solutions to simplify financial lives. We will continue to strive to make a positive impact and are grateful to have earned our member’s trust and business.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Names Bron Ringstad VP of Branch Operations
Bron Ringstad has been named the VP of Branch Operations at Eglin Federal Credit Union
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Oct.6, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Bron Ringstad of Niceville has been named the VP of Branch Operations. Ringstad earned his bachelor’s degree in business management from Florida State University and has been a manager for the Credit Union since 2009. In his new role, Ringstad will continue the work he has been doing by providing employee development and support to branch personnel while focusing on financial education of products and services, membership growth, and positive member experiences.
“This is a well-deserved promotion for Bron,” said SVP of Branch Operations Kim Nauta. “Bron has been committed to providing five-star service over these past 13 years, and with his leadership we will continue to strive to make a positive impact on our members’ financial lives.”
"EFCU is a great place to work, and I'm looking forward to being a part of EFCU’s future growth,” Ringstad said.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Donates $6,000 to Adopt All 17 Classrooms at Silver Sands School in Fort Walton Beach
Eglin Federal Credit Union presents Silver Sands School a check in the amount of $6,000 at the Fort Walton Beach Chamber breakfast on Friday, Oct. 7. (left to right: EFCU VP Marketing and Public Relations Laura Coale, Silver Sands Principal Stephanie Wheat, EFCU President/CEO Jerry Williams)
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 7, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union was honored to present Silver Sands School a check in the amount of $6,000 at the Fort Walton Beach Chamber breakfast on Friday, Oct. 7. EFCU is adopting all 17 classrooms at Silver Sands School for the academic year through the EFCU CARES program.
Silver Sands Principal Stephanie Wheat said, “Our faculty at Silver Sands School are so appreciative of the support from EFCU. This funding will go directly into the individual classrooms and will provide each teacher with the resources that they need to support the specialized student learning that is provided daily. We are honored that EFCU chose to partner with our school in this way to support our students with special needs.”
Silver Sands School serves a unique population of students with significant special needs. It is a Special Day School which provides educational services to students who, because of their mental functioning levels, require services beyond those offered by other special educational programs in regular schools. Silver Sands School serves approximately 130 students with disabilities ranging in age from 3 to 22 from Okaloosa and Walton counties.
“Eglin Federal Credit Union is very proud to sponsor all 17 classrooms at Silver Sands School this academic year,” said President/CEO Jerry Williams. “Silver Sands can use these monies to go toward medical supplies and equipment, technological speech devices, educational software programs and every day classroom needs. When we recently took a tour of the facility, I was impressed by the thoughtfulness and detail that went into creating such a special learning environment. Eglin Federal Credit Union is grateful for all that Silver Sands does to educate those children with special needs in our community, and we couldn’t be happier to help support their efforts.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Joy Huckaby Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union's 5-Star Employee Award
President/CEO Jerry Williams (right) and Accounting Supervisor Jessica Wilcox (left) present the 5-Star Performer Award for the third quarter to Joy Huckaby (center).
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Nov. 2, 2022) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Accounts Payable Specialist/Fixed Assets Specialist Joy Huckaby has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 3rd Quarter of 2022. Joy has been employed with the Credit Union since October 2005 and currently resides in Navarre.
Senior Vice President of Accounting Carlene Grant said, “Joy has been part of the Accounting Department since 2007 and is a valuable part of our team. She’s an expert in her job and is relied upon heavily by the other departments and branches at EFCU. We’re grateful for her many years of service.”
After graduating from Northwest Florida State College in 2005 with an associate degree in accounting, Joy began working at EFCU in the ATM department, working in Special Services and then transferred to Accounting. She also serves as the President’s Executive Assistant.
Her supervisor Jessica Wilcox added, “Joy always goes out of her way to help in any situation by actively listening to teammates, board members, vendors and members. Others look to her for guidance and Credit Union expertise.”
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
“I really enjoy the team I work with at the Credit Union,” Joy said. “In my position, I get to see all the different pieces of the whole organization, and how they all work together. It’s really amazing, and I love the people here.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Juliana Powell Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s 5-Star Employee Award for the 4th Quarter
(left to right): PAL/Title Supervisor Lela Corlew, President/CEO Jerry Williams, Call Center Ops Manager Ruth Fennell, and Loan Services Supervisor LaCrystal Donson congratulate Juliana Powell (center) for earning the 5-Star Performer of the 4th Quarter of 2022.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Feb.. 1, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Loan Services Representative Juliana Powell has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 4th Quarter of 2022. Juliana has been employed with the Credit Union since September 2013 and currently resides in Navarre.
“Juliana promotes the values of EFCU daily with her team and our membership,” said Call Center Ops Manager Ruth Fennell. “She is respected by her peers, trusted, dedicated and stays engaged with staff. During our recent auto loan promotion, Juliana volunteered to work late during the week and on numerous Saturdays to help the PAL/Title team. She is famous for asking what she can do to help. Juliana assisted, processed, checked work and helped wherever she was needed.”
Juliana’s history with the Credit Union started at the Fort Walton Beach Branch as a Part-time Teller. She was quickly promoted to Member Service Rep in the Call Center then promoted to Member Service Counselor in 2016. In 2020, Juliana was promoted to Loan Services Rep and will join our new Pace Branch when it opens later this year, in her newly promoted position as Member Service Supervisor.
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
“I really enjoy my job at the Credit Union and am always happy to help other departments when needed,” Juliana said. “I love the people I work with and have developed some close friendships here. We’re like family. I’m looking forward to meeting new members in Pace when our branch opens and am so proud to say that I work for EFCU!”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Named Large Business of the Year by the Niceville Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce
Eglin Federal Credit Union’s CEO and President Jerry Williams is joined by VP Marketing Public Relations Laura Coale (left), EVP/Chief Strategy Officer Cathie Staton (middle) and VP Membership and Community Development Neko Stubblefield (right) to accept the 2022 Large Business of the Year Award by the Niceville Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce at their annual awards celebration held at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center Feb. 9, 2023.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Feb. 15, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union was named the Large Business of the Year by the Niceville Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce at their annual awards celebration held at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center Feb. 9, 2023.
Chamber Chair of the Board Dr. Michael Mosley of Rocky Bayou Christian School announced, “This company has been everywhere you look over the past year or more. It seems like they are always there to support military causes, non-profit organizations, including all the Chambers of Commerce. With us, they have sponsored Golf Classic, lunches, breakfasts, Niceville Young Professionals Golf Tournament, Sequins and Suits, the Education Committee and much more! They sit on numerous Boards throughout the area in order to support and stay in tune with the needs of local organizations. EFCU recently helped launch an Okaloosa County Schools suicide prevention program with the Hope Squad and partners with Okaloosa Saves. They have been in our area since 1954, and they are always seeking opportunities to serve the needs of our communities. This business is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of members and in our communities.”
“We are so proud and honored to be named the 2022 Large Business of the Year by the Niceville Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce,” said EFCU CEO and President Jerry Williams. “We have a great team, and this award belongs to all of the employees of Eglin Federal Credit Union. I’d also like to congratulate Natalie Davis who was awarded the Young Professional of the Year Award. She is the daughter of our employee, Diana, and the EFCU family is very proud of her. We are so blessed to work with so many dedicated individuals who are focused on making Niceville/Valparaiso a great place to live and work.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Member Service Counselor Rita Crusett-Vogel for 30 years of service
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Member Service Counselor Rita Crusett-Vogel for 30 years of service. (Pictured left to right: President/CEO Jerry Williams, Member Service Counselor Rita Crusett-Vogel, Bluewater Bay Branch Manager Susan Coup and Member Service Supervisor Bruce Smith)
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Feb. 27, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Member Service Counselor Rita Crusett-Vogel for her 30 years of service. She currently resides in Niceville.
“We would like to thank Rita for her 30 years of service to Eglin Federal Credit Union,” said President/CEO Jerry Williams. “Dedicated, long-standing employees like Rita contribute to our success and help us achieve our mission.”
Rita joined the Credit Union in 1993 as a Teller in Fort Walton Beach. She transferred to Bluewater Bay in 1997 where she progressed to Member Service Counselor in 2014.
Bluewater Bay Branch Manager Susan Coup added, “It’s wonderful for our members to have familiar faces like Rita to depend on over the years.”
During her celebration Rita said, “Thank you very much for this recognition. I have been at the Bluewater Bay Branch since it opened, and I really love what I do. I enjoy serving our members and have been here long enough to have some of their children come in and ask for me. Seeing the many changes and growth at the Credit Union is fantastic. I will continue to be there alongside our employees and members, and I am thankful to have the opportunity to work with such a great team.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Mastercard Specialist Gail Evans for 45 years of service
Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams recognizes Mastercard Specialist Gail Evans for 45 years of service. Pictured left to right: Card Services Manager Alicia Kennedy, President/CEO Jerry Williams, Mastercard Specialist Gail Evans, SVP/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (March 13, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Mastercard Specialist Gail Evans for 45 years of service. She currently resides in Ft. Walton Beach.
“We would like to thank Gail for her 45 years of service to Eglin Federal Credit Union,” said President/CEO Jerry Williams. “She plans to retire from EFCU this year, and we recognize and appreciate her loyalty and dedication to the Credit Union and in turn, our members.”
Gail started her career at the Credit Union in 1978 as a Loan Typist. She was promoted to Senior Loan Typist then to Loan Counselor before moving to the Mastercard department in 1991. Gail was promoted to Loan Administrative Supervisor in 1993 and then returned to the Mastercard department as Mastercard Supervisor in 2006.
SVP/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz added, “Gail has been in the Mastercard department for over 15 years, and we rely on her knowledge and expertise. She will be greatly missed when she retires this year.”
During her celebration Gail said, “I have enjoyed my 45 years at EFCU more than I could have ever imagined. The time has passed so quickly, and I have made many friends here. I will truly miss being part of the EFCU team.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
A Message from our President
A Message from our President
Recent bank failures have caused some concerns about the safety and soundness of the financial system as a whole. Please be assured that these failures are limited to a few financial institutions that were operating with high levels of risk. Mainstream banks and credit unions do not operate in that manner.
Eglin Federal Credit Union serves our member-owners with safety and soundness at the heart of everything we do. Why? Because we live in your neighborhoods, we shop at your businesses, we go to school, church and many other functions with you. We give back to the communities that have embraced us since 1954.
As a member of EFCU, your money is protected and insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund which insures your money up to $250,000 per individual depositor. We are proud to report that no credit union member has ever lost a penny of insured savings held in a federally insured credit union. (Please note that this insurance fund is separate and distinct from the FDIC insurance fund for banks).
Please rest assured knowing EFCU is healthy, safe, local and here for you.
If you have any questions, please contact us during normal business hours. As always, please know we stand ready to assist you with all of your financial needs.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Participates in United Way Emerald Coast's 29th Day of Caring
Eglin Federal Credit Union Participates in United Way Emerald Coast's 29th Day of Caring
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (April 19, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to once again support the United Way Emerald Coast’s 29th Annual Day of Caring. Twenty-eight Eglin Federal Credit Union employees participated by painting and landscaping in Fort Walton Beach and Crestview Monday, April 17.
“Eglin Federal Credit Union has a long tradition of supporting our annual Day of Caring and this year was no different!” said United Way Emerald Coast’s President and CEO Kelly Jasen. “Their team split up to cover two projects, providing our Crestview location with some much-needed TLC as well as supporting the City of Fort Walton Beach. We’re so grateful for their willingness to roll up their sleeves to make a difference in our community.”
Eglin Federal Credit Union has sponsored and participated in this event for over 18 years, and employees have painted, cleaned, organized, gardened and more to help fill the needs of our community.
“I am extremely proud of Eglin Federal Credit Union employees for volunteering and showing our support to the communities in which we live, work and play,” said President/CEO Jerry Williams. “We look forward to the Day of Caring every year to make a positive impact.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Kelsey Mitchell receives Eglin Federal Credit Union's 5-Star Employee Award for the 1st Quarter
(left to right): SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer Gina Denny, HR Supervisor Robin Lakes, HR Manager Daniel Anderson, President/CEO Jerry Williams congratulate Kelsey Mitchell (center).
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (April 27, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce HR Training and Development Coordinator Kelsey Mitchell has been selected as the 5-Star Performer for the first quarter of 2023. Kelsey has been employed with the Credit Union since July 2012 and currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
"Kelsey has consistently proven to be a valuable team member within the HR Department and EFCU as a whole,” said HR Manager Daniel Anderson. “She practices patience when assisting her EFCU team members, displays the core values of the Credit Union, and her interactions with fellow employees are always with an open mind and heart. Whenever she is tasked with an additional duty, Kelsey responds with a positive attitude and gives full attention to the task."
Kelsey began her career at the Credit Union in 2012 as a part-time Teller at the Mary Esther Branch. She was promoted to full-time Teller then to Member Service Counselor. In August 2021, Kelsey was promoted to HR Training and Development Coordinator.
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
“I love coming to work every day, and I’m proud to work for EFCU,” Kelsey said during her celebration. “I have enjoyed the different positions I have had over the past 10 years and have gained many close friendships at EFCU. We’re like family here.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
EFCU Partners with the Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation to bring a "Reality Check" to Laurel Hill students
Member Service Counselor Angela Fisher and Financial Education Specialist Courtney Dollson were at the EFCU booth to educate students on checking and savings accounts.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (April 27, 2023) - The Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation and Eglin Federal Credit Union have teamed up to bring a financial education experience called Reality Check to Okaloosa County for the first time. Approximately 60 high school students from the 9th to 12th grades participated in lessons facilitated by EFCU Financial Education Specialist Courtney Dollson at Laurel Hill School April 12 and 19 with the final Reality Check simulation at the Crestview Community Center April 26. The Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation provided breakfast and lunch through a grant for the students the day of the simulation.
“In the classroom, Laurel Hill students learned about budgeting, expenses after graduation, and credit in preparation for the Reality Check simulation,” said EFCU Financial Education Specialist Courtney Dollson. “Eglin Federal Credit Union is committed to the communities we serve by providing free financial education. We hope to continue this event annually and see even more growth in the coming years.”
At the Reality Check simulation students randomly received various occupations, salaries and credit scores. They toured booths staffed by community partners and volunteers to make purchases from insurance agencies, mortgage lending, auto lending, finance, retail, communications and more. Several products and services were offered such as a home, car or insurance translating into various monthly payments with credit scores considered. Students budgeted their expenses and calculated their remaining income at the end of the activity.
At the event a student, Amy Senterfitt, said, “What I learned today is that parents really do have it rough around here. It really opened up my eyes because I didn't realize how much stuff actually costs even though it might be low in price, it adds up at the end. Today I really learned how to budget my money and how the real world is actually going to be. Courtney visited our school and got us ready for this event a couple of weeks ago. She really helped us prepare for what the future is going to be like, but I didn't realize how hard it was actually going to be.”
“Financial literacy and fiscal responsibility are life skills,” said Executive Director Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation Steve Horton. “The Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation is grateful to be able to partner with Eglin Federal Credit Union and our other volunteers to host this event for our students. We are committed to enhancing students’ education, and this Reality Check event provides a perfect forum to do just that.”
Volunteers at the event included representatives from Auburn Water Systems, Career Source Okaloosa Walton, CCB Community Bank, CHELCO, Clayton Homes, David A. Herf, MD, Eglin Federal Credit Union, Emerald Coast Science Center, Farm Bureau Insurance, Florida Farm Bureau, JRL Conyers Lodge, Moors & Cabot, Okaloosa County School District, Okaloosa Gas, Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation, Okaloosa Tax Collectors Office, Realty ONE Group, Sandy Sansing Milton Chevrolet, ServisFirst Bank, Tiffany Woodham State Farm, and Wanda g. Roberts Realty LLC. A grant by Wells Fargo funded the event.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Senior Vice President/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz for 35 years of service
(left to right) President/CEO Jerry Williams congratulates SVP/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz on 35 years of service.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (May 24, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Senior Vice President/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz for her 35 years of service.
“Dawn has been an integral part of our team over the past 35 years, and we value her contributions to our growth,” said President/CEO Jerry Williams. “We are grateful for the loyalty, expertise and commitment she has shown, and the years of service she has dedicated to our organization.”
Dawn joined the Credit Union in May 1988 as a Computer Aide in Data Processing. She was promoted five times within the Data Processing Department over the next 12 years before accepting the position of Data Operations Manager in May 2000. In 2005, Dawn was promoted to Vice President of Data Operations in Data Processing, and in May 2013, she was promoted to Senior Vice President. The department was restructured in 2019 to Payment Systems, and in November 2022, Dawn was promoted to her current position of Senior Vice President/Chief Payments Officer.
During her celebration, Dawn commented, “It has been exciting to be a part of the Credit Union growth over the years and to work with awesome individuals, both past and present, who are committed to doing their best for our members, our community and each other. I look forward to seeing how the Credit Union and my teammates continue to evolve over the coming years.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Senior Vice President/Chief Human Resources Officer Gina Denny for 35 years of service
SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer Gina Denny is presented with a 35 Years of Service Certificate from President/CEO Jerry Williams.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (May 31, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Senior Vice President/Chief Human Resources Officer Gina Denny of Fort Walton Beach for her 35 years of service.
“In Gina’s 35 years with the Credit Union, she has been and continues to be an essential part of our company’s journey,” said President/CEO Jerry Williams. “EFCU is privileged to have employees like Gina who bring such dedication, hard work and loyalty to our organization. We congratulate her as she celebrates this milestone anniversary.”
Gina joined the Credit Union in May 1988 as a Real Estate Receptionist. She worked as a Loan Interviewer, Member Service Trainee, Manager Trainee then Assistant Branch Manager before becoming the Collections Manager in April 1994. Gina went on to manage the Eglin Branch and Fort Walton Beach Branch before transferring to Human Resources Manager in 2007. In 2013, she was promoted to Vice President of Human Resources. Five years later, she was promoted to Senior Vice President of Human Resources. In November 2022, she was promoted to her current position as Senior Vice President/Chief Human Resources Officer.
At her celebration Gina said, “I’ve grown up at the Credit Union, and I’m so grateful for all of the opportunities that I have had here. I have worked with a lot of wonderful people over the years, and my HR team is amazing.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Fort Walton Beach Teller Bonnie McIntosh for 25 years of service
Eglin Federal Credit Union Fort Walton Beach Branch Manager Lesli Harding (left) and Head Teller Marita Fenton (right) congratulate Teller Bonnie McIntosh for 25 years of service.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Fort Walton Beach Teller Bonnie McIntosh for 25 years of service. Bonnie currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
“We congratulate Bonnie on becoming a member of the National Association of Federal Credit Union’s Quarter Century Club in recognition of her 25 years of service to the credit union industry,” said SVP/COO Kim Nauta. “Bonnie is a favorite with a lot of our long-time members, and we appreciate her knowledge, dedication and commitment to EFCU and our members.”
Bonnie joined the Credit Union in 1998 as a part-time Teller at the Fort Walton Beach Branch, and she was promoted to full-time Teller in January 2000.
Head Teller Marita Fenton added, “Bonnie is very reliable and does a great job serving our members. She is a great mentor and is always happy to share her knowledge with newer tellers.”
During her celebration Bonnie said, “I love the friendly atmosphere at the Credit Union. I have always been very content here and enjoy my job as a Teller. I look forward to the interactions with our members each day. After all these years, I know so many of them by name, and they know me too.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union and Okaloosa Saves partner in the Teach a Child to Save Campaign
Winner Jimmy Stewart, III receives an Okaloosa Saves certificate with his mother, Shari Quintana. Eglin FCU’s Courtney Dollson (left) and Sherry Harlow (right) represented Okaloosa Saves. Pictured in back left to right are Okaloosa County Commissioners Nathan Boyles, Paul Mixon, Trey Goodwin and Carolyn Ketchel.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (July 18, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union partnered with Okaloosa Saves for the annual Teach a Child to Save campaign April 1 – June 30. Youth were encouraged to set a savings goal and make a deposit into a savings account at EFCU. This year there were 114 youth under the age of 18 who participated with deposits totaling $23,335.81. Their names were entered into a random drawing for six children to win a $50 deposit into their EFCU account from Okaloosa Saves. Since the program began in 2004, 2,286 children made deposits totaling $373,439.88.
The six winners are:
Takiyah Grayson, Valparaiso,
Korben Marshall, Crestview,
Joseph Nehiley, Baker,
Leilani Stephens, Destin,
Jimmy Stewart III, Freeport and
Brayden Waters, Destin.
During a certificate presentation at the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners board meeting today, Chairman Trey Goodwin, District 4, said, “Okaloosa Saves has been a part of guiding people in Okaloosa County to become more financially stable for 20 years. We are especially grateful for their efforts in teaching young people about the importance of reducing debt and building wealth by creating a plan to save money year-round. Financial wellness helps promote overall wellness, and we appreciate Okaloosa Saves for continuing this effort for so many years.”
Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said, “We have partnered with Okaloosa Saves for 19 years to help teach children the importance of saving, and we look forward to this program every summer.”
Sherry Harlow, APR, serves on the Okaloosa Saves Board as the Treasurer and donated $1,000 to help with the Teach a Child to Save campaign. Harlow said, “We look forward to having a positive impact on youth and developing good saving habits for their future.”
Savings tips for parents:
Talk about the importance of budgeting and saving money
Visit your local EFCU branch to open a savings account or deposit into an existing account
Teach the basics of investing
Encourage them to be entrepreneurs
Be a role model
For additional information, visit Okaloosa Saves on Facebook or Okaloosa Saves.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union opens new location in DeFuniak Springs
Eglin Federal Credit Union held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday, July 18 in DeFuniak Springs for its new ATM/Video Teller Drive-thru.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (July 18, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union today held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its DeFuniak Springs ATM/Video Teller Drive-thru located at 677 Highway 90. The first phase of this site is now open. A full-service branch will open at this location later in 2024.
Members have the ability to speak with a live teller over two-way video during regular business hours. Video Tellers are available Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. These personalized tellers assist members with deposits, withdrawals, transfers, payments and questions. Video Teller ITMs also operate as ATMs 24/7 using an EFCU ATM or Debit card. Watch this video to learn how to cash a check at Video Teller ITM. Learn more at eglinfcu.org/VideoTeller.
“We are excited to be here and to be able to offer convenient services to our members in DeFuniak Springs,” Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said. “We are happy we can now offer affordable products, excellent services and many financial wellness resources to an expanded membership base in DeFuniak Springs.”
Membership is open to those who live, work, worship, attend school and volunteer in seven geographic locations in Walton County. Go to eglinfcu.org/eligibility then select “Geographic Location” and enter your address. Must be 18 or older to join online. To learn more about the many benefits of membership go to eglinfcu.org/benefits.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Teri Broxson Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union's 5-Star Employee Award for the 2nd Quarter
Photo Caption: (from right to left) President/CEO Jerry Williams congratulates the 2nd Quarter 5-Star Performer IRA Specialist Teri Broxson with Fort Walton Beach Branch Manager Lesli Harding and Member Service Supervisor Vanessa Cicchiani-Taylor.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (July 27, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Certified IRA Specialist Teri Broxson has been selected as the 5-Star Performer for the second quarter of 2023. Teri has been employed with the Credit Union for 26 years and currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
Member Service Supervisor Vanessa Cicchiani-Taylor said, “Teri is dedicated and proactive in helping our membership. She has also immersed herself in the community by volunteering to teach classes at the Center for Lifelong Learning at the University of West Florida to further our members’ and our community’s knowledge about IRA products.”
Teri began her career at the Credit Union in 1997 as a Special Service Representative in Fort Walton Beach. She worked in Member Services and was promoted to Supervisor at the Mary Esther Branch. In 2011, she became an IRA Specialist. Teri recently earned her Certified IRA Professional (CIP) designation.
Manager Lesli Harding added, “Teri never hesitates to spend a day with new teammates to help them develop their IRA skills. She is happy to offer assistance and is a valued part of the EFCU Member Services team.”
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
“I really enjoy my work as an IRA Specialist and love helping our members at the Credit Union,” Teri said during her celebration. “Teaching IRA classes at the Center for Lifelong Learning has been a wonderful new way to share my knowledge with the community, and it’s such a rewarding experience.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Employees Raise Funds for Suicide Prevention
Eglin Federal Credit Union employees raise funds for suicide prevention.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Sept. 18, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union employees raised $7,347 to support suicide prevention for youth and the military through the Bring Hope Dragon Boat Festival and Race held at the Gulf Restaurant on Okaloosa Island Sunday, Sept. 10. Two employee teams raised money by organizing a dessert auction, hot dog luncheon, turtle wreath auction, website donations and a steerer’s auction. In addition to the funds raised by the teams, EFCU was also the Dragon Sponsor donating $10k.
“We can’t thank Eglin Federal Credit Union enough for their ongoing support of our mission to prevent youth and military suicide,” said United for a Good Cause, Inc. Executive Director Peggy Brockman. “They came out in full, spirited force with two employee teams, and we’re so grateful for their willingness to grab a paddle and make a difference in our community. Due to Eglin Federal Credit Union’s past support, we were able to stand up 35 schools with a peer-to-peer suicide prevention program in Okaloosa County, and we were able to stand up the first ever in the nation Hope Squad active duty military program. We appreciate their commitment to this important cause.”
Next year’s Bring Hope Dragon Boat Festival and Race is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 7 at the same location.
“I am extremely proud of Eglin Federal Credit Union employees for volunteering and showing our support to the communities in which we live, work and play,” said President/CEO Jerry Williams. “We are looking forward to next year’s event and encourage other teams to sign up for this worthwhile race.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Named 2023 Finest on the Emerald Coast in three categories
Eglin Federal Credit Union was voted best Credit Union, Place to Work and Mortgage Lending Company in the 2023 Finest on the Emerald Coast’s Official Community Choice Awards.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. - Sept. 25, 2023 - Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to announce it was voted best Credit Union, Place to Work and Mortgage Lending Company in the 2023 Finest on the Emerald Coast’s Official Community Choice Awards. Locals, members and employees choose the best businesses in town through nominations and voting. Read the announcement.
Eglin Federal Credit Union has won a community’s choice award every year since the Northwest Florida Daily News started the competition in 2010.
“With thanks to our awesome employees, Eglin Federal Credit Union is very proud to be named best Credit Union, Place to Work, and Mortgage Lending Company,” said CEO and President Jerry Williams. “We are grateful to have earned our member’s trust and business. We are committed to providing five-star service, support and solutions to simplify financial lives in our community.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union opens new location in Gulf Breeze
Eglin Federal Credit Union opens new location in Gulf Breeze
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 26, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its Gulf Breeze ATM/Video Teller Drive-thru located at 3959 Gulf Breeze Parkway. The first phase of this site is now open. A full-service branch will open at this location later in 2024 or early 2025.
Members have the ability to speak with a live teller over two-way video during regular business hours. Video Tellers are available Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. These personalized tellers assist members with deposits, withdrawals, transfers, payments and questions. Video Teller ITMs also operate as ATMs 24/7 using an EFCU ATM or Debit card. Watch this video to learn how to cash a check at Video Teller ITM. Learn more at eglinfcu.org/VideoTeller.
“We are excited to be here and to be able to offer convenient services, affordable products and many financial wellness resources to an expanded membership base in Gulf Breeze,” Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said. “We opened the Navarre Branch in 2007, the Pace Branch is nearing completion, and we are proud to add Gulf Breeze as a third location in Santa Rosa County for members.”
Membership is open to those who live, work, worship, attend school and volunteer in specific geographic locations within Santa Rosa and Escambia Counties. Go to eglinfcu.org/eligibility then select “Geographic Location” and enter your address. Must be 18 or older to join online. To learn more about the many benefits of membership go to eglinfcu.org/benefits.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Bluewater Bay Head Teller Angie Lampert for 25 years of service
Eglin Federal Credit Union Bluewater Bay Branch Manager Susan Coup (right) congratulates Bluewater Bay Head Teller Angie Lampert for 25 years of service.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Bluewater Bay Head Teller Angie Lampert for 25 years of service. Angie currently resides in Niceville.
“We congratulate Angie on becoming a member of the National Association of Federal Credit Union’s Quarter Century Club in recognition of her 25 years of service to the credit union industry,” said SVP/COO Kim Nauta. “Angie has worked her way up from part-time Teller to Head Teller and has built many trusted relationships with members at three different branches over the years. We appreciate her unwavering commitment to the Credit Union and our members.”
Angie joined the Credit Union in 1998 as a part-time Teller at the Eglin Branch. She was promoted to Senior Teller in Destin in 2007, then in 2011, transferred to Bluewater Bay as the Senior Teller. In 2018, Angie was promoted to Head Teller at the Destin Branch. When the Head Teller position at the Bluewater Branch opened in 2021, Angie transferred back there to be closer to home.
Bluewater Bay Branch Manager Susan Coup commented, “Angie is full of energy and inspires our teller line with her work ethic. She’s a great team player, and we are so fortunate to work with her.”
During her celebration Angie said, “I was a military wife when I started my job at the Eglin Branch, where I worked for nine years. I appreciated that my job allowed me to be with my family in the evenings, on holidays and weekends, and I ended up making a career out of it. I see a lot of familiar member faces from the three different branches I’ve worked at over the years and I love that.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Leigh Lewis Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s 5-Star Employee Award for the 3rd Quarter
(from right to left) President/CEO Jerry Williams congratulates the 3rd Quarter 5-Star Performer Leigh Lewis with Navarre Member Service Supervisor Nicole Beauchamp.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Navarre Member Service Counselor Leigh Lewis has been selected as the 5-Star Performer for the third quarter of 2023. Leigh has been employed with the Credit Union for 16 years and currently resides in Navarre.
Pace Member Service Supervisor Juliana Powell said, “Leigh has been a huge asset in the training effort to get our Pace team ready for the Pace Branch opening. She also participates in many volunteer opportunities, including most recently as a captain for one of the dragon boats in the Bring Hope Now boat race to raise money for suicide prevention and awareness.”
Leigh began her career at the Credit Union in 2007 as a part-time Member Service Rep in the Call Center. She transferred to Navarre as a part-time Teller and was promoted to Member Service Information Assistant in Mary Esther in 2011. She held positions as a Teller and Member Service Counselor at the Mary Esther Branch for several years before transferring to her current position at the Navarre Branch as Member Service Counselor.
VP of Branch Operations Bron Ringstad added, “We are grateful to have employees like Leigh who are so dedicated to our members. To have members regularly ask for her by name says a lot about the high level of service she provides, and we are happy to recognize her with the 5-Star Performer Award.”
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
“I really appreciate working at the Credit Union,” Leigh said during her celebration. “I feel like this company is as vested in me as I am in them, and I love that. It’s a great relationship!”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Information Systems ATM/ITM Supervisor Sue Schlitter for 30 years of service
Eglin Federal Credit Union SVP of Information Systems Rocky Magee (right), SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer Gina Denny (right) and Information Systems Manager Michael Davis (left) congratulate Information Systems ATM/ITM Supervisor Sue Schlitter for 30 years of service.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Nov. 2, 2023) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Information Systems ATM/ITM Supervisor Sue Schlitter for her 30 years of service. Sue currently resides in Crestview.
“We’re happy to celebrate Sue, and we would like to thank her for 30 years of service to Eglin Federal Credit Union,” said President/CEO Jerry Williams. “Three decades of service is a remarkable accomplishment, and we take great pride in her commitment to EFCU and our members.”
Sue joined the Credit Union in 1993 as a full-time ATM Teller in Fort Walton Beach. She was promoted to ATM Supervisor in 2000, and then promoted to Information Systems ATM/ITM Supervisor in 2020 when the ATM department became part of the Information Systems (IS) department.
Information Systems Manager Mike Davis commented, “Sue is a dedicated team player and a professional. Member service is always her top priority. We are very happy to celebrate this milestone with her.”
Sue said, “I have always loved being in the ATM department and was excited when the department became part of IS. It’s interesting to see the changes in technology over the years. When I started here, there were only 18 ATMs. Now we have over 40 ATM/ITMs with more on the way!”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union to delay opening until 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 9 due to forecasted inclement weather
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Jan. 8, 2024) - All Eglin Federal Credit Union branches will delay opening until 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024 due to forecasted inclement weather.
There are several products and services available to help members access their money no matter where they are: Online Access through Online Banking and our Mobile App, Debit Card with surcharge-free access to CO-OP and Allpoint networks, and CO-OP Shared Branch with over 5,000 locations. Learn more at eglinfcu.org/locations.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Yvonne McCarter receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s 5-Star Employee Award for the 4th quarter
(from left to right) CEO Jerry Williams, Payment Systems Manager Alicia Kennedy, Supervisor Jamie Hinkle and SVP/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz congratulate Yvonne McCarter, center.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Jan. 22, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Card Services Representative II Yvonne McCarter has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 4th Quarter of 2023. Yvonne has been employed with the Credit Union since December 2003 and currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Yvonne was nominated by 19 Account Services Representatives in the Call Center. They wrote, “Yvonne demonstrates hard work and compassion for her coworkers and members. You can count on her to look at the situation from every angle, and she goes above and beyond to make sure the issue is resolved in a timely manner. She always finds a way to get things done, even in challenging circumstances. Yvonne is patient, professional and shares her knowledge by explaining everything she is doing to make sure the Reps understand what needs to done. She always has a positive and encouraging attitude, no matter what circumstance is presented to her. Yvonne supports her teammates in surrounding areas, by making their jobs easier and more efficient.”
Yvonne’s history with the Credit Union started at the Eglin Branch as a Loan Typist in 2003. She was promoted to Loan Counselor at Eglin then moved to Special Services Rep in Fort Walton Beach. She joined the Mastercard department in 2012, and she has continued to earn promotions in her department.
“As a member I loved the Credit Union before I started working here,” Yvonne said. “I am very honored to be recognized by the Call Center team. They are truly wonderful to work with and we help each other. I love my job and my coworkers in Payment Systems, and I enjoy being able to help our members.”
SVP/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz noted, “In our department we all know how pleasant, patient and wonderful Yvonne is to work with, and that she is an expert in her field. To have another department recognize her for this was outstanding.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Named the 2023 Large Business of the Year by the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce
(top): Eglin Federal Credit Union’s senior management team proudly displays the 2023 Large Business of the Year Award from the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce. (left): EVP/Chief Strategy Officer Cathie Staton proudly accepts the award along with VP Membership of Community Development Neko Stubblefield (right). (right) VP Branch Operations Bron Ringstad helps at the Habitat for Humanity Rock the Block cleanup in DeFuniak Springs this past summer.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. - Feb. 29, 2024 - Eglin Federal Credit Union was named the 2023 Large Business of the Year by the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce at their Annual Chamber Awards Gala hosted this year by the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa on Feb. 9, 2024.
“We are extremely honored to be named the 2023 Large Business of the Year by the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce,” said EFCU President/CEO Jerry Williams. “Last year, our senior management team were Difference Makers by working closely with Habitat for Humanity to Rock the Block in DeFuniak Springs and at their Restore location in Santa Rosa Beach. We are looking forward to opening up the new Freeport branch soon. Our DeFuniak Springs ATM/Video Teller location that opened in 2023 offers convenient account access to our growing family of member-owners.”
The Large Business of the Year award recognizes an organization/industry that demonstrates genuine partnership by working with other businesses, nonprofits and area agencies to identify issues and develop sustainable programs and initiatives that make a lasting impact on our community.
In February, EFCU was also named the Best Credit Union in Destin. Other awards the Credit Union has won for 2023 include:
• Finest on the Emerald Coast (2023 Credit Union, Mortgage Lending Company, Best Place to Work)
• 2023 Best Credit Union – Emerald Coast Magazine
• Community Partner of the Year for 2023 – Hurlburt Field Air and Space Force Association Chapter 398
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union partners with the Okaloosa County School District to bring financial literacy to high schools
Approximately 60 high school students from the 9th to 12th grades participated in financial literacy lessons facilitated by Eglin Federal Credit Union’s VP Membership and Community Development, Neko Stubblefield, at Crestview High School April 9.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (April 9, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union and the Okaloosa County School District teamed up to bring financial literacy to high school students. Approximately 60 high school students from the 9th to 12th grades participated in lessons facilitated by Eglin Federal Credit Union’s VP Membership and Community Development, Neko Stubblefield, at Crestview High School April 9. The personal financial literacy course covers a wide range of topics, from opening a checking or savings account to planning for retirement.
“Eglin Federal Credit Union is committed to the communities we serve by providing free financial education,” said Stubblefield. “By offering this course in local high schools, we aim to empower young people to develop healthy financial habits that will serve them throughout their lives.”
Superintendent Marcus Chambers emphasized the Okaloosa County School District's commitment to enriching students' education, equipping them with essential life skills, including financial literacy, to enable them to succeed in life. He said, “The school district is grateful for the support of Eglin Federal Credit Union in facilitating financial education sessions to supplement the course curriculum, which will help students develop sound financial habits and achieve economic prosperity.”
Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1054, the Dorothy L. Hukill Financial Literacy Act, March 22, 2022. This act makes it mandatory for high school students to complete a financial literacy course to qualify for a standard high school diploma. The requirement applies to students who enrolled in high school in the 2023-2024 school year.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Opens New Pace Branch
Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams cuts the ribbon at the grand opening for the new Pace Branch.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (April 23, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union held a ribbon cutting ceremony today at its new Pace Branch located at 4413 US-90. This is EFCU’s third location in Santa Rosa County with the Navarre Branch opening nearly 17 years in August 2007. The Gulf Breeze ATM/Video Teller location opened in September 2023. As part of the Credit Union's growth and expansion efforts, La Macchia Group is the design/build firm for the new Pace branch. The Freeport Branch is opening soon, and the Operations Center is expected to be completed this summer.
The National Credit Union Administration recently approved expanding EFCU’s field of membership to include anyone who lives, works (or regularly conducts business in), worships or attends school, and businesses and other legal entities in specific geographic locations within Santa Rosa County, Escambia County, Florida as well as Escambia County, Alabama.
Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said, “There are approximately 15,000 members in Santa Rosa County, and we are looking forward to extending the benefits of membership to our new neighbors near our new Pace Branch. We chose this convenient location to provide easy access to affordable products and services as well as financial wellness resources that add value to this community.”
The Pace Branch is approximately 4,400 square feet, showcasing a new open branch design that features a member engagement area with interactive touch screen monitors. This is a full-service branch with safe deposit boxes, a Coinstar® machine, night drop, touch screen video tellers and drive-thru ATMs.
Media may contact Laura Coale for video b-roll and photos.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Participates in United Way Emerald Coast’s 30th Day of Caring
Eglin Federal Credit Union employees participated by cleaning and landscaping a foster home at Children in Crisis in Fort Walton Beach.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (April 26, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to once again support the United Way Emerald Coast’s 30th Annual Day of Caring during National Volunteer Week April 21-27. Twelve Eglin Federal Credit Union employees participated by cleaning and landscaping a foster home at Children in Crisis in Fort Walton Beach. Twenty-seven soldiers from the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) partnered with the Credit Union to paint the Crestview Manor Assisted Living facility Thursday, April 25.
“Eglin Federal Credit Union has a long tradition of supporting our annual Day of Caring and this year was no different!” said United Way Emerald Coast’s President and CEO Kelly Jasen. “We’re so grateful for their willingness to roll up their sleeves to make a difference in our community.”
Eglin Federal Credit Union has sponsored and participated in this event for over 19 years, and employees have painted, cleaned, organized, gardened and more to help fill the needs of our community.
“Once again, I am extremely proud of Eglin Federal Credit Union employees for volunteering and showing support to our local communities,” said President/CEO Jerry Williams. “I’d also like to thank the soldiers who showed up in full force. Only nine people were requested and 27 volunteered. We are grateful for their partnership and look forward to supporting United Way’s Day of Caring every year.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Gwen Woullard Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s 5-Star Employee Award for the 1st Quarter
President/CEO Jerry Williams (left) and Mary Esther Branch Manager Ryan Fingall (right) congratulate Mary Esther Teller Gwen Woullard for being selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 1st Quarter of 2024.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (April 29, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Mary Esther Teller Gwen Woullard has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 1st Quarter of 2024. Gwen has been employed with the Credit Union since January 2015 and currently resides in Crestview.
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Gwen was nominated for exhibiting EFCU’s values on a daily basis. She enjoys assisting members, and they look for her when they come into the branch. Gwen is a leader on the teller line. She is very patient and is known for sharing her knowledge with new teammates. She has also volunteered for EFCU community events such as Shred Day and United Way Day of Caring.
“I love my job at the Credit Union,” said Gwen at her celebration. “It’s a good feeling to enjoy going into work every day. Our team feels like a family to me, and I go home each evening feeling very gratified. I love my job, and I love doing whatever I can to help our members.”
Gwen started her career at the Credit Union as a part-time Teller in North Crestview in 2015 then transferred to South Crestview in 2017. In June 2022, she accepted a full-time Teller position in Mary Esther.
Branch Manager Ryan Fingall commented, “Gwen is a pleasure to work with. She is very warm and welcoming to our members, often greeting them by name. She is attentive and tuned in to members’ needs, and they have grown very fond of her.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Opens New Freeport Branch
Eglin Federal Credit Union Freeport Branch Manager Tanya Ray cuts the ribbon at the grand opening for the new Freeport Branch.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (July 11, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union celebrated the grand opening of its new Freeport Branch today with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Located at 16970 US Hwy 331 S, this is Eglin FCU's first full-service branch and second location in Walton County. The Freeport Branch will provide convenient account access for more than 30,000 members living in Walton County. The DeFuniak Springs ATM/Video Teller Drive-thru located at 677 Highway 90 opened July 18, 2023.
Eglin Federal Credit Union expanded membership opportunities to persons who live, work (or regularly conduct business in), worship, or attend school in, and employees of businesses located within the approved seven census tracts in Walton County. Visit the new Freeport Branch to learn more about membership, or go to eglinfcu.org/join.
Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said, “This year marks our 70th Anniversary, and we recognize we wouldn’t be here today without the loyal support of our members and community partners. We thank you for the trust that you have placed in our care. It is a responsibility that we do not take for granted. We embrace the credit union philosophy of people helping people, and we believe that when you lead with values and do the right things, that good things happen. We are proud Eglin Federal Credit Union was named the 2023 Large Business of the Year by the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce. Thank you for celebrating our first Walton County Branch. We look forward to serving this community and growing the Credit Union family.”
The Freeport Branch is approximately 4,400 square feet, showcasing a new open branch design that features a member engagement area with interactive touch screen monitors. This is a full-service branch with safe deposit boxes, a Coinstar® machine, night drop, touch screen video tellers and drive-thru ATMs.
La Macchia Group is the design/build firm for the new Freeport branch, the recently-opened Pace Branch, and the Operations Center, which is expected to be completed this year.
Media may contact Laura Coale for video b-roll and photos.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union, The First Bank and Okaloosa Saves partner in the Teach Children to Save Campaign
Winners of the Teaching Children to Save campaign were presented a certificate by Okaloosa Saves at the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners board meeting Tuesday, July 16.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (July 16, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union partnered with Okaloosa Saves and The First Bank for the annual Teaching Children to Save campaign April 1 – June 30. Youth were encouraged to set a savings goal and make a deposit into their savings account. Their names were entered into a random drawing for six children to win a $50 deposit into their savings account from Okaloosa Saves. Winners were invited to the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners board meeting on Tuesday, July 16 to receive their certificates and recognition.
This year, there were 106 youth from Eglin FCU and six youth from The First Bank under the age of 18 who participated in the Okaloosa Saves Teach Children to Save campaign with deposits totaling $20,169.64. Since the program began in 2004, 2,398 children made deposits totaling $393,610.
The six winners were:
Calvin Hopper, Crestview
Keegan Hughes, Miramar Beach (The First Bank), not pictured
Emily Pear Kirkpatrick, Crestview, not pictured
Norrace Lampert, Niceville
Santana Stewart, Freeport
Anakin Tedder, Niceville
Chairman Paul Mixon, District 1, said, “I commend the winners and all of the children who participated in this year’s Okaloosa Saves Teach Children to Save campaign. It’s encouraging to see how the Okaloosa Saves program continues to promote the importance of saving, reducing debt and creating financial wellness. We appreciate the work and progress this program has achieved over the years in teaching our children how to build a sound foundation of financial stability.”
Eglin Federal Credit Union President/CEO Jerry Williams said, “We look forward to offering this youth savings program every year because it is so important to teach children about the importance of saving. Eglin FCU has proudly partnered with Okaloosa Saves for 20 years to help provide financial education to our community, and we plan to continue this effort for years to come.”
Sherry Harlow, APR, who serves on the Okaloosa Saves Board as the Treasurer said, “I have served on Okaloosa Saves for 21 years and am pleased to see the impact the Teaching Children to Save program has made over the years with $393,610 saved by area youth.”
Savings tips for parents:
Talk about the importance of budgeting and saving money
Visit your local EFCU branch to open a savings account or deposit into an existing account
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Tiffany Jackson Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s 5-Star Employee Award for the 2nd Quarter
President/CEO Jerry Williams (left) and Fort Walton Beach Member Service Supervisor Vanessa Cicchiani (right) congratulate Member Service Counselor Tiffany Jackson for being selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 2nd Quarter of 2024.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Aug. 1, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Fort Walton Beach Member Service Counselor Tiffany Jackson has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 2nd Quarter of 2024. Tiffany has been employed with the Credit Union since May 2005 and currently resides in Crestview.
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Tiffany was nominated by her teammates at the Fort Walton Beach Branch. She is recognized as being an excellent role model and a top professional in her role as Member Service Counselor at the Credit Union. The nomination stated that Tiffany regularly offers to help others and takes on extra duties without hesitation. It included that she is enthusiastic and helps keep morale high. Tiffany has an excellent reputation with members and is requested by name to help them.
“I really do love my job at the Credit Union,” said Tiffany after her celebration. “I have been here 19 years and truly enjoy helping other people, whether it’s our members or my coworkers. I enjoy when members come to me for help and leave with a smile. It gives me great joy and satisfaction to make someone else’s day better.”
Tiffany started her career at the Credit Union in 2005 as a Temporary Teller in Mary Esther then was quickly hired by Eglin FCU as a Part-time Teller one month later. She remained in the Teller role until 2007 when she was promoted to Member Service Counselor in Mary Esther. In December 2022, Tiffany transferred to the Fort Walton Beach Branch as a Member Service Counselor.
Member Service Supervisor Vanessa Cicchiani commented, “As a 19-year employee, Tiffany has made a great impact on the success of our organization. She has a vast amount of Credit Union knowledge and is appreciated by members and coworkers for being one who is always ready and willing to assist or answer questions. Her dedication, reliability and enthusiasm make her a deserving recipient of the 5-Star Performer award.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Promotes Neko Stubblefield to Senior VP of Membership and Community Development
Neko Stubblefield promoted to SVP of Membership and Community Development at Eglin Federal Credit Union.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 3, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Neko Stubblefield of Baker has been promoted to Senior VP of Membership and Community Development. Stubblefield has worked for the Credit Union since 2017. She oversees membership growth, community development and financial education. In her new role, she will have expanded responsibilities to include community development across the Credit Union’s expanding footprint.
President/CEO Jerry Williams said, “We are thrilled to recognize Neko’s hard work, dedication and outstanding leadership with this well-deserved promotion. Neko’s passion for our mission and vision, combined with her in depth knowledge of our industry, will be instrumental as we continue to provide exceptional value and service to our members.”
Stubblefield serves on numerous boards and committees including One Okaloosa Economic Development Council (Vice Chair), Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation, Northwest Florida State College Foundation, Rocky Bayou Christian School, Okaloosa Technical College Advisory Board, Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Department Advisory Committee, and she was past Chair of the Crestview Chamber of Commerce.
Neko also serves on the Crestview Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee (Chair), Fort Walton Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee, and Niceville Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee.
She is currently an AFMC Civic Leader representing the 96TW, Eglin AFB and Honorary Commander at 7th SFG, Camp Bull Simons. She was an Honorary Commander at 919th SOW, Duke Field and 1 SOW, Hurlburt Field.
Stubblefield has been recognized with the following awards: Emerald Coast Board of Realtist- Associate of the Year (2024), Okaloosa County Commission of the Status of Women-Woman of Honor (2024), Crestview Chamber of Commerce-Cornerstone Award (2023), United Way of the Emerald Coast-Forever Young Award (2023), and the Destin Chamber of Commerce-Business Person of the Month Award (2022).
She added, “I am honored to embrace this new role at Eglin FCU and look forward to collaborating with our talented team to drive growth and continued focus on member success. Together, we will build upon our strong foundation and create an even brighter future for our Credit Union and the communities we serve.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Human Resources Supervisor Robin Lakes for 30 years of service
SVP/Chief HR Officer Gina Denny (right) congratulates Human Resources Supervisor Robin Lakes (left) for 30 years of service.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Sept. 30, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Human Resources Supervisor Robin Lakes for 30 years of service. Robin currently resides in Crestview.
“Over the past three decades, Robin has been an indispensable member of our Credit Union family. Her unwavering dedication and steadfast loyalty have significantly enriched our organization,” said SVP/Chief HR Officer Gina Denny. “Robin always shows genuine care and concern for others. She makes everyone feel valued and welcome. We deeply appreciate the enduring commitment she has demonstrated throughout her years with us.”
Robin joined the Credit Union in 1994 as a Records Vault Assistant. In her early years with Eglin FCU, she held positions in Operations as a Loan Processor, Loan Counselor and Loan Supervisor. In 2009, Robin transitioned from Operations to Human Resources as Training Coordinator. In 2021, she was promoted to her current role as Human Resources Supervisor.
During her celebration, Robin commented, “I feel so blessed and thankful for the relationships I’ve built over my years here, and I couldn’t imagine my career anywhere else. I have enjoyed all of my positions with Eglin FCU, and am especially proud to be part of the Human Resources team. Our department has grown quite a bit over the last 15 years, and I look forward to seeing how the Credit Union and my team continue to evolve over the coming years.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union names Cathie Staton new President/CEO
Eglin Federal Credit Union names Cathie Staton new President/CEO
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Oct. 8, 2024) - The board of directors has appointed Cathie Staton as the new President/CEO of Eglin Federal Credit Union effective Oct. 28, 2024. She succeeds Jerry Williams who is retiring after 30 years of service with Eglin FCU, the last 10 years as President/CEO.
Under Williams’ leadership assets grew by over $1 billion to nearly $2.9 billion with 124,000 members worldwide. He is well known for his involvement in several area chambers of commerce, economic development councils and nonprofit organizations. He served as an Honorary Commander, 24SOW, Hurlburt Field and as a Civic Leader, 33FW, Air Education and Training Command. In recognition of his extensive support of local military installations, he was presented with the General Lewis H. Brereton Award by the Air Force Association Hurlburt Chapter.
Board Chair Dan McInnis stated, “The Board would like to thank Jerry for his dedication and years of service advancing Eglin Federal Credit Union’s mission, and we are excited to announce the appointment of Cathie Staton as our new President/CEO.”
Staton has over 35 years’ experience at Eglin Federal Credit Union and has been serving as the Executive Vice President for the last two years heading up strategic planning and project management. She spearheaded the brand refresh in 2019 and the recent expansion of the Field of Membership into Walton County and Santa Rosa and Escambia Counties. Staton has been on the executive team for the last 22 years and oversaw Marketing, Membership, Community Development, and Risk Management, which encompasses Bank Secrecy, Fraud, Compliance and Vendor Management. She served in Branch Operations for 15 years and opened the South Crestview Branch as the Branch Manager in 1989 as well as the Bluewater Bay Branch in 1997.
McInnis added, “I know that Cathie’s leadership will continue to advance Eglin FCU as a leader in our industry offering unparalleled service to satisfy the needs and financial well-being of our members and employees.”
Staton has been a resident of Niceville, Florida for 37 years and is a member of Crosspoint Church where she has led a Women’s Bible Study for more than 12 years. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Salisbury State University in Maryland, and a master’s degree in business management from Troy University. Staton has completed NAFCU’s Management Development Institute and holds national certifications in Compliance and Risk Management.
“I am thrilled to have been selected as the next President/CEO of Eglin Federal Credit Union, and I’m looking forward to working with the board, volunteers, and team to build on the successes of my predecessors,” said Staton.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Tommy Tensley Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union's 5-Star Employee Award for the 3rd Quarter
(left to right) Account Services Manager Adam Dudney, EVP/Chief Strategy Officer Cathie Staton and AVP Account Services Ruth Fennell (right) congratulate Account Services Rep Tommy Tensley for being selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 3rd Quarter of 2024.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Oct 25, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Account Services Representative Tommy Tensley has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 3rd Quarter of 2024. Tommy has been employed with the Credit Union since October 2022 and currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Tommy was nominated by his peers in Account Services for his patience, hard work, efficiency and reliability. They highlighted his kindness to members and coworkers, and his ability to always find a way to get the job done even in challenging situations. Tommy is often the last one on the phone at the end of the day ensuring every call is completed. His positive and cheerful demeanor along with his efforts to make his team feel appreciated have earned him multiple recognitions on the Difference Makers list for his outstanding member service.
“I am so appreciative of my job at the Credit Union,” said Tommy after his celebration. “I love talking to people and truly enjoy helping people, whether it’s our members or my coworkers. I just try to be of service or make someone else’s day better.”
Tommy started his career at the Credit Union in 2022 as an Account Services Rep in the Call Center and has excelled in his role, consistently improving month after month. His dedication, patience and growing expertise has made him an invaluable asset to the Call Center team.
AVP Account Services Ruth Fennell commented, “Although Tommy has only been a Call Center Rep for two years, he has made a great impact on our team. He is a positive, cheerful worker who continually strives to enhance his Credit Union knowledge, and shares his information with his coworkers. He is greatly appreciated by our members and coworkers for always being very patient and kind. I’m so glad he’s part of our team. Tommy is a deserving recipient of the 5-Star Performer award.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Hurlburt Head Teller Gina Alford for 25 years of service
(from left to right) Eglin Federal Credit Union CEO Cathie Staton, Hurlburt Branch Manager Vivian Gonzalez, AVP Branch Operations Lesli Harding, and VP Branch Operations Bron Ringstad congratulate Head Teller Gina Alford (center) for 25 years of service
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Nov. 18, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Hurlburt Head Teller Gina Alford for 25 years of service. Gina currently resides in Navarre.
“We are delighted to celebrate a remarkable milestone as we honor Gina Alford, who has dedicated 25 years of exceptional service to our Hurlburt Branch,” said Hurlburt Branch Manager Vivian Gonzalez. “Her steadfast commitment to this branch, professionalism and friendly demeanor have made a lasting impact on both our team and our members. We are incredibly grateful for her dedication and are proud to have her as a valued member of our organization.”
Gina joined the Credit Union in 1999 as a part-time Teller at the Hurlburt Branch. She was promoted in 2000 to Membership Officer and in 2002, she received Employee of the Quarter for excellent service. Over the years, Gina was promoted to Senior Membership Officer, Member Service Counselor, Senior Teller, and in 2020, she was promoted to her current position as Head Teller.
During her celebration Gina said, “My favorite part of coming to work is the one-on-one interactions with our members. I really enjoy that. I also have an amazing team that I work with, and I’m so thankful for this group and for the company I get to come to work for.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union infuses $1.9 million into the community through local nonprofits
Eglin Federal Credit Union infuses $1.9 million into the community through local nonprofits
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Nov. 21, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is spreading holiday cheer by donating $1.9 million into the community through local nonprofits. Monetary donations were made to the Air Force Enlisted Village, Children in Crisis, Emerald Coast Fitness Foundation, Fisher House of the Emerald Coast, Fresh Start for Children and Families, Habitat for Humanity of Okaloosa County, Habitat for Humanity of Walton County, Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation, the Southeastern Credit Union Foundation and the United Way Emerald Coast.
“Eglin Federal Credit Union is very excited to be able to make this investment in our community,” said President/CEO of Eglin Federal Credit Union Cathie Staton. “Our Charitable Donation Account performed well, allowing us to make such a significant contribution. The intention of the distribution is to satisfy needs within our community that align with Eglin FCU’s Mission, Vision and Values, while making a positive impact to the communities where our members live, work, worship or attend school.”
Below is a summary of the projects the donation will help fund:
1. Air Force Enlisted Village – benefits our nation’s heroes and defenders
A contribution toward the design of Victory Village, a blended military senior living community in Shalimar, near Eglin AFB and Hurlburt Field, comprised of wounded warriors and their caregivers, the surviving spouses of retired enlisted Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, and Guardians, and retired enlisted couples
2. Children in Crisis - impacts lives of vulnerable children and families
The creation of a thrift store and transit vehicles
3. Emerald Coast Fitness Foundation – provides facilities and programs for youth, teens, the disabled, and seniors in our area who use pools for life safety skills, exercise, competition and rehabilitation
Capital improvements
Kids Water Safety Campaign
4. Fisher House of the Emerald Coast – provides military families with a home away from home at Eglin AFB, keeping them together during treatment of serious illness or therapy
A storage facility next door to their office building at 10 Bobolink St.
6. Habitat for Humanity of Okaloosa County – helps provide affordable housing by bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope in Okaloosa County
The construction and completion of two homes in Crestview, FL.
7. Habitat for Humanity of Walton County – helps provide affordable housing by bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope in Walton County
Contribution toward the completion of Hope Village Neighborhood, the first Habitat for Humanity neighborhood in DeFuniak Springs, Walton County
A Restore of Walton County Delivery Truck
8. Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation - ensures those students who are motivated and able to go to college have the financial resources to do so
Take Stock in Children scholarship program – college scholarships and mentoring
9. The Southeastern Credit Union Foundation - helps further the impact of Disaster Relief Funds for necessities like food, water, shelter, and more, providing support for immediate and long-term recovery
Disaster relief, especially in the wakes of Hurricanes Helene and Milton
10. United Way Emerald Coast - helps further the efforts for serving and supporting Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed individuals (ALICE)
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Senior Vice President/Chief Technology Officer Tim Farnsworth for 30 years of service
Eglin Federal Credit Union SVP/Chief HR Officer Gina Denny congratulates SVP/Chief Technology Officer Tim Farnsworth for 30 years of service.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Dec. 13, 2024) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to recognize SVP/Chief Technology Officer Tim Farnsworth’s remarkable 30-year career with the organization, during which he has grown to become an integral part of the credit union's leadership team. He oversees all cybersecurity, business continuity, electronic infrastructure and information technology operations.
"We are thrilled to honor Tim for his three decades of exceptional service and unwavering commitment to Eglin Federal Credit Union," said President/CEO Cathie Staton. "His journey is a true testament to the power of hard work, lifelong learning and personal growth. Throughout his career, Tim has played a pivotal role in driving the Credit Union's technological innovations, ensuring that members enjoy a seamless and secure banking experience."
Starting his career at the Credit Union as a 19-year-old Maintenance Custodian, Tim showcased his tenacity and drive by pursuing his education while working, eventually earning a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from the University of West Florida and a Master of Science in Management with an emphasis in Leadership from Troy University. His dedication, skill, and determination enabled him to rise through the ranks to his current role as SVP/Chief Technology Officer. He participates on the North Florida Cyber Regional Domestic Security Task Force and is on the Okaloosa Technical College Advisory Committee for both Cyber Security and Information Technology.
"I am extremely grateful to God, and to Eglin FCU for the opportunities that have come my way over the past 30 years," said Tim. "It's been an incredible journey, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to our mission of providing exceptional five-star financial services to our members and making a positive impact in our community."
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union honors Jerry Williams with President Emeritus title
Eglin Federal Credit Union names retired President/CEO Jerry Williams President Emeritus.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Jan. 13, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to announce the board of directors has honored Jerry Williams with the prestigious title of President Emeritus, recognizing his exemplary service and leadership over the past decade as President/CEO. Jerry officially retired on Jan. 3, 2025. Jerry’s new title as President Emeritus was effective Jan. 6, 2025.
Board Chair Dan McInnis praised Jerry Williams’ significant contributions, stating on behalf of the board of directions, “We deeply value Jerry Williams' leadership at Eglin Federal Credit Union. As he enters retirement, we are pleased to officially honor him with the title of President Emeritus. We are grateful for his dedication, years of service, and the positive impact he has made within the Credit Union, and also in the communities where we serve.”
In accepting the honor, Williams expressed his gratitude and reflected on this designation: “I am deeply honored to be named President Emeritus. My time at Eglin Federal Credit Union has been incredibly fulfilling, and I look forward to continuing to be an ambassador for Eglin Federal Credit Union during my retirement.”
Under Williams’ leadership assets grew by over $1 billion to nearly $2.9 billion with 124,000 members worldwide. He is well known for his involvement in several area chambers of commerce, economic development councils and nonprofit organizations. He served as an Honorary Commander, 24SOW, Hurlburt Field and as a Civic Leader, 33FW, Air Education and Training Command. In recognition of his extensive support of local military installations, he was presented with the General Lewis H. Brereton Award by the Air Force Association Hurlburt Chapter.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Kristen Potter Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s 5-Star Employee Award for the Fourth Quarter of 2024
(from left to right) Communications Manager Kathey Mitchell, VP Marketing and PR Laura Coale, President/CEO Cathie Staton, and SVP/Chief HR Officer Gina Denny congratulate Kristen Potter (center) for being selected 5-Star Performer of the Fourth Quarter of 2024.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 2, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Marketing Sponsorships and Project Coordinator Kristen Potter has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the Fourth Quarter of 2024. Kristen has been employed with the Credit Union since July 2011 and currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Kristen was nominated by the Membership and Community Development team and by her manager. She was recognized for her positive, high-energy attitude and her ability to seamlessly integrate joy into every task she takes on. Kristen is known for her organizational skills and is the first one to offer help to her team and other departments. They wrote that Kristen loves the Credit Union, loves her job, and is always on the lookout for ways to improve things for her department and Eglin FCU.
“I love working at the Credit Union, and I enjoy finding ways to boost employee morale,” said Kristen at her celebration. “I’ve always wanted to be in the Marketing Department, and I really enjoy my job here. It’s an honor to work for a company that is so involved in our community, and I’m very proud to say I work for EFCU.”
Kristen started her career at the Credit Union in 2011 as an Info Assistant in Member Services. She was promoted to Title Specialist, and over the years held several other positions in Mortgage Services and Member Services. In 2022, Kristen transferred to the Marketing Department as the Marketing and Communications Coordinator, and in 2024, was promoted to her current role as Marketing Sponsorships and Project Coordinator.
Marketing VP Laura Coale commented, “Kristen Potter truly embodies Eglin FCU’s core values of being respectful, trustworthy, dedicated, proactive, and engaged. Her commitment to providing five-star service is on display daily, and she is genuinely deserving of this award. Outside of her regular duties, Kristen comes up with ideas like designing and ordering employee t-shirts for our 70th anniversary, and she looks for engaging ways to increase the employee donation fund like organizing candygrams during the holidays. She is always looking for new ways to bring something interesting and fun to our employees, which creates a positive work environment.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Quality Control/Underwriting Supervisor Susan Dombrigues for 30 years of service
(from left to right) VP Mortgage Services Ashley Hall, Maintenance Custodian (Susan’s son) Ryan Dombrigues, SVP/Chief HR Officer Gina Denny, and Mortgage Services Manager Mark Franks congratulate Susan Dombrigues (center) on 30 years with Eglin FCU
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (March 14, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Mortgage Services Quality Control/Underwriting Supervisor Susan Dombrigues for 30 years of service. Susan currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
“Over the past three decades, Susan has been a dedicated member of our Credit Union team. Her strong work ethic and steadfast loyalty have significantly enriched our department,” said Mortgage Services Manager Mark Franks. “We deeply appreciate the commitment she has demonstrated throughout her years with us, and we look forward to many more years together.”
Susan joined the Credit Union in 1995 as Loan Information Assistant at our Hurlburt Field Branch, then was promoted to Loan Counselor later that year. In 1999, she transitioned from Branch Operations to Mortgage Services as a Real Estate Loan Processor. Over the next decade, Susan received several promotions in the Mortgage Service department, including positions as Lending Supervisor, Processing Supervisor and Administrative Supervisor. In 2020, she was promoted to her current role as Quality Control/Underwriting Supervisor.
After her celebration, Susan commented, “I never imagined I would spend 30 years with one employer, but the time has passed so quickly. I am thankful for the positions I’ve held at Eglin FCU, and I couldn’t imagine my career anywhere else. EFCU has really been a family to me over the years, and now I’m fortunate to have my son, Ryan, working here, also. I’ve learned so much over my time here, and I look forward to the years to come.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Card Services Manager Alicia Kennedy for 25 years of service
(from left to right) SVP/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz and President/CEO Cathie Staton congratulate Alicia Kennedy (center) on 25 years with Eglin FCU
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (April 23, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Card Services Manager Alicia Kennedy for 25 years of service. Alicia currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
“Over the past 25 years, Alicia has been a steadfast presence at Eglin FCU, contributing in various roles throughout her tenure. Her dedication and reliability have been instrumental in maintaining the smooth operation of our team,” said SVP/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz. “We appreciate Alicia’s consistent effort and commitment to getting the job done, and we look forward to her continued contributions in the years to come.”
Alicia joined the Credit Union in 2000 as a Special Services Representative at our Fort Walton Beach Branch. Four years later, she was promoted to Senior Membership Officer. In 2005, Alicia was promoted to Senior Teller at the Mary Esther Branch, and then was promoted to Head Teller one year later. In 2018, she was promoted to Senior Auditor in the Auditing department. Three years later, Alicia was promoted to Card Services Manager in the Payment Systems department.
After her celebration, Alicia shared, "Throughout my years here, I've had the opportunity to work in various branches and departments, gaining a comprehensive view of the Credit Union from the front lines to the behind-the-scenes operations. This experience has provided me with an invaluable perspective, and I truly appreciate how seamlessly everything integrates. I have a deep affection for our Payments Systems team, where the spirit of collaboration and mutual support is evident. It genuinely feels like a family here."
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes IRA Assistant Wendy Ellerd for 25 years of service
(from left to right) Certified IRA Specialist Teri Broxson, SVP/Chief HR Officer Gina Denny, and Fort Walton Beach Branch Manager Megan Davis congratulate Wendy Ellerd (center right) on 25 years with Eglin FCU
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (May 6, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate IRA Assistant Wendy Ellerd for 25 years of service. Wendy currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have had Wendy as a part of our Credit Union family for the past 25 years. Her dedication, kindness, and exceptional service have made a profound impact on both our team and our members,” said VP Branch Operations Bron Ringstad. “Wendy consistently goes above and beyond, ensuring that every member feels valued and supported. Her commitment to excellence and her genuine care for others have set a remarkable example for all of us. As we celebrate this milestone, we extend our deepest gratitude to Wendy for her outstanding contributions to Eglin FCU. Here's to many more years of success and inspiration!”
Starting her journey in May 2000 as a Teller at our Mary Esther Branch, Wendy quickly demonstrated her commitment and was promoted to Membership Officer just a year later. Her continued excellence led to her promotion to Senior Membership Officer in 2004 and then to Insurance Specialist in 2006. In 2014, Wendy transferred to Hurlburt as a Member Service Counselor, and in 2017, she brought her expertise to the Eglin Branch. In February 2021, Wendy was promoted to her current position as IRA Assistant at our Fort Walton Beach Branch.
After her celebration, Wendy commented, "Having been with the Credit Union for over half of my life, I've made countless close friends who have truly become family. I've enjoyed learning various aspects of the Credit Union, which has helped me grow both personally and professionally. Serving members who genuinely rely on us brings me immense satisfaction, and I take great pride in being able to help people."
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Johna Jones Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s 5-Star Employee Award for the First Quarter of 2025
Photo caption: (from left to right) President/CEO Cathie Staton and SVP/Chief HR Officer Gina Denny congratulate Johna Jones (center) for being selected 5-Star Performer of the First Quarter of 2025.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (May 5, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Indirect Lending Officer Johna Jones has been selected as the
5-Star Performer of the First Quarter of 2025. Johna has been employed with the Credit Union since August 2017 and currently resides in Gulf Breeze.
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Johna was nominated by a teammate for consistently bringing a positive and helpful attitude to her work and inspiring her coworkers with her sociability, friendliness and team spirit. She is known for being a dedicated and hard worker who genuinely cares about the Credit Union and its members. She was recognized for her proactive nature, which drives her to take initiative and handle tasks that need attention, while at the same time delivering her best, regardless of circumstances.
“I really love my job at the Credit Union,” Johna commented after her celebration. “I love helping our members with their loans so they can have the best auto-buying experience possible. And I love the team I work with. We all help each other, and the camaraderie is fantastic. Our department gets along so well that we even do things together outside of work. This is my home away from home.”
Johna started her career at the Credit Union in 2017 as a Title Processor and was promoted to PAL/Title Supervisor later that year. In July 2021, Johna was promoted to Indirect Lending Officer I, then promoted to Indirect Lending Officer II in December 2021.
Indirect Lending Manager Sara Houghton commented, “Johna exemplifies dedication, respect, and professionalism. Her positive attitude and proactive nature inspire everyone around her. Johna's unwavering commitment to Eglin FCU and its members, coupled with her ability to earn trust and deliver her best, rain or shine, make her an invaluable asset to our team.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Celebrates Grand Opening of New Operations Center
Eglin Federal Credit Union Celebrates the Grand Opening of New Operations Center (Photo credit: John Magnoski)
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (May 22, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union (Eglin FCU) is proud to announce the grand opening of its state-of-the-art Operations Center, a milestone in the credit union's comprehensive growth and expansion project. The Operations Center is located at 340 Beal Parkway NW, Fort Walton Beach. The event was marked by a celebratory gathering attended by board members, volunteers, team members, and partners who supported the successful completion of this project.
Eglin FCU’s President/CEO, Cathie Staton, expressed her gratitude and excitement during the opening ceremony. "This Operations Center is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence," said Staton. "We believe that a well-designed space can inspire creativity and productivity, and we are thrilled to offer our employees a dynamic and inviting atmosphere that reflects our corporate values."
The new Operations Center, a four-story, 100,000-square-foot building, includes an attached parking garage and is designed to accommodate up to 400 employees. It features energy-efficient windows, geothermal wells, charging stations for employees’ electric vehicles, and flexible interior workspaces designed for employee comfort and efficiency. The bright and open workspaces foster creativity, collaboration, and communication, with various types of collaboration spaces, balconies, and outdoor tables shaded from the Florida sunshine.
The building also houses a state-of-the-art training center, an expanded call center with chat and text support, a growing Video Teller team, and departments such as loan services, indirect lending, collections, Information Technology, Information Systems, mortgage services, facilities management and operations training and projects. Additionally, the Operations Center can serve as a disaster recovery site if needed.
Cathie Staton highlighted the collaborative efforts that made this project possible, recognizing key contributors including the board of directors, volunteers, President Emeritus Jerry Williams, former COO Kenny Girot, and several team members who were involved from the beginning such as SVP/CTO Tim Farnsworth, SVP/CIO Rocky Magee, SVP/COO Kim Nauta, and Facilities Manager/Security Officer Alan Campbell. Staton also acknowledged the La Macchia Group for their excellent work on the design and build of the Operations Center.
"We embrace the credit union philosophy of people helping people, and we believe that when you lead with values and do the right things, good things happen," Staton added. "We are excited to continue to attract and retain new employees and members, while having room to grow and deliver five-star service."
EFCU's new Operations Center is a significant step in the Credit Union's growth plan, with the expansion of its field of membership into Walton, Santa Rosa, and Escambia counties in Florida and Alabama, and enhancing digital services to meet the increased demand for back-office support.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Payment Systems Reconciliation Specialist Belinda Borough for 30 years of service
(left to right) President/CEO Cathie Staton and SVP/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz recognize Payment Systems Reconciliation Specialist Belinda Borough (center) for 30 years of service.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (June 20, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to celebrate the 30-year work anniversary of Belinda Borough, a valued and respected team member whose career has been marked by dedication, reliability and exceptional service.
SVP/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz shared, “It’s rare to find someone as dependable, thoughtful, and genuinely dedicated as Belinda. For 30 years, she has been a cornerstone of the Credit Union—always ready to help, always doing her best, and always making a difference. Known for her kindness, professionalism, and steady presence, Belinda has made a lasting impact across departments and among colleagues. We are very fortunate to have her as part of our Credit Union family.”
Belinda began her journey with the Credit Union June 22, 1995, as a Records Vault Assistant. Over the years, she has taken on a variety of roles, including Teller, Loan Counselor, Returned Item Representative, Executive Assistant, and most recently, Payment Systems Reconciliation Specialist. Her 30-year tenure includes experience across multiple departments and roles, reflecting a broad range of responsibilities and institutional knowledge.
Reflecting on her three-decade journey, Belinda said, “I’ve been blessed to grow with the Credit Union over the years and to work alongside so many wonderful people. Every role I’ve had has taught me something new, and I’m grateful for the opportunities, the friendships, and the chance to serve our members every day.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union, Renasant Bank and Okaloosa Saves partner in the Teach Children to Save campaign
Winners of the Teaching Children to Save campaign were presented with a certificate by Okaloosa Saves before the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners budget meeting Tuesday, July 22.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (July 22, 2025) – Eglin Federal Credit Union partnered with Okaloosa Saves and Renasant Bank for the annual Teach Children to Save campaign April 1 – June 30. Youths were encouraged to set a savings goal and make a deposit into their savings account. Their names were entered into a random drawing for six children to win a $50 deposit into their savings account from Okaloosa Saves. Winners were invited for recognition prior to the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners budget meeting on Tuesday, July 22 where they received certificates.
This year, 102 youths from Eglin FCU and Renasant Bank under the age of 18 participated in the Okaloosa Saves Teach Children to Save campaign, with deposits totaling $27,058.82. Since the program began in 2004, 2,497 children have made deposits totaling $420,668.34.
The six winners were:
Thomas Chambliss, Crestview
John Hague, Navarre
Hannah Lichlyter, Shalimar
Tayvon Reynolds, Crestview
Michael Smith, Crestview
Teja Zary, Mary Esther
“Okaloosa Saves, Teach Children to Save is a valuable program to teach our children the importance of thoughtful financial management,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon. “We appreciate the values and strategies this program has been building throughout the years and how it has provided the necessary foundation of financial stability for these children as they grow into adults.”
Eglin Federal Credit Union President and CEO Cathie Staton said, “Each year, we’re excited to bring back our youth savings program because building smart money habits early makes a lifelong difference. For two decades, Eglin FCU has proudly teamed up with Okaloosa Saves to champion financial education in our community, and we’re committed to continuing this important work for many years to come.”
Sherry Harlow, APR, who serves as treasurer on the Okaloosa Saves board said, “It’s been an honor to serve on Okaloosa Saves for 22 years and witness the real impact of the Teach Children to Save program. Seeing local youths save over $420,668 is a powerful reminder of how early financial education can shape brighter futures.”
Savings tips for parents:
Talk about the importance of budgeting and saving money
Visit your local Eglin FCU branch to open a savings account or deposit into an existing account
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Donates $50,000 to Westonwood Ranch in Walton County for Technology Support
Eglin Federal Credit Union was honored to present Westonwood Ranch a $50,000 check at their headquarters in Freeport, Fla. on Friday July 25, 2025. Pictured left to right: VP Marketing and Public Relations Laura Coale, SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer Gina Denny, Founder and CEO of Westonwood Ranch Lindy Wood, President/CEO Cathie Staton, SVP Membership and Community Development Neko Stubblefield
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (July 30, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union presented Westonwood Ranch in Walton County with a $50,000 check on Friday, July 25, 2025. The funding will support upgrades to Westonwood Ranch’s technology and communication systems, expanding learning opportunities for children and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
At the check presentation ceremony, Lindy Wood, founder and CEO of Westonwood Ranch, said, “With this $50,000 gift, we’re going to be able to invest in our technology here at Westonwood Ranch. To have a partnership like this with Eglin Federal Credit Union is incredible, and we are beaming with gratitude knowing we have a team we can count on. Thank you for believing in our mission and investing in some of the most vulnerable lives in our community, those with developmental disabilities.”
Westonwood Ranch is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Freeport, dedicated to supporting children and young adults with developmental differences by teaching essential life skills through hands-on learning. The organization offers real-world training experiences, where participants build independence, job readiness and social confidence.
Westonwood Ranch addresses a critical gap in surrounding communities by offering full-time, year-round educational programs and transition-to-work opportunities. Services include summer day camps, therapeutic horseback riding and recreational therapy, aquaponic lettuce and dog treat enterprises, as well as family outreach and support.
“Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to support Westonwood Ranch in Walton County,” said President/CEO Cathie Staton. “We toured their impressive 10-acre ranch in Freeport and are truly inspired by the programs and unique learning environments they offer. We’re grateful for the meaningful work Westonwood Ranch is doing and are honored to contribute to their continued success.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Elaine Carr Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s 5-Star Performer Award for the Second Quarter of 2025
Pictured left to right: IT Manager Ryan Ray, IT Technician Elaine Carr and IT Technician Supervisor Joshua Tallant
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (July 31, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce that IT Technician Elaine Carr has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the Second Quarter of 2025. Elaine has been employed with the Credit Union since February 2020 and currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces Eglin FCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Elaine was nominated by a colleague who highlighted her exceptional contributions to the IT team and her consistently positive, results-driven approach. She was recognized for her kind and professional communication style, which helps foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels appreciated. Her integrity and reliability have earned the trust of her teammates, and her proactive mindset ensures that challenges are addressed often before they arise. According to the nomination, Elaine’s commitment to excellence makes her a driving force behind the IT team’s success.
“Working in the IT department is incredibly rewarding—we’re truly the backbone of Eglin Federal Credit Union,” Elaine commented after her celebration. “I love being part of a team that gets to solve problems and make life easier for our coworkers. And yes, it might sound cliché, but my department really does feel like one big family. We support each other, laugh together, and embrace everyone’s unique personalities. I’m especially grateful for our leadership in IT—they’ve created a space where collaboration thrives and everyone feels valued.”
Elaine started her career at the Credit Union in 2020 as a part-time Teller at the Fort Walton Beach branch and was promoted to Information Systems Computer Op II/ITM/ATM later that year. In September 2021, Elaine transitioned to the IT department as a full-time IT Technician.
IT Manager Ryan Ray commented, "Elaine brings a consistently supportive and composed presence to the IT department, which is especially valuable during high-pressure situations. Her reliability and punctuality are unmatched—you could practically set your watch by her! I am grateful for her proactive commitment to professional growth, as it sets a strong example for the entire team. Elaine represents the very best of Eglin FCU’s 5-Star Values and it’s a privilege to have her on my team.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Senior ATM/ITM Operator Monica Hurd for 25 years of service
Pictured left to right: President/CEO Cathie Staton, Computer Op III/ATM/ITM Monica Hurd, Information Systems Supervisor/ATM/ITM Sue Schlitter and Information Systems Manager Susan Coup
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 9, 2025) – Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to recognize Monica Hurd, senior ATM/ITM operator in Information Systems, for 25 years of service. Monica currently resides in Navarre.
A celebratory breakfast was held in her honor on Friday, Sept. 5, at the Operations Center. Sue Schlitter, ATM/ITM supervisor in Information Systems, shared her admiration for Monica’s long-standing contributions at Eglin Federal Credit Union.
“Monica has been a trusted and invaluable asset to Eglin Federal Credit Union for 25 years. If I had to describe her best attributes in a few words, they would be dedication, loyalty and heart. She’s always present, always steps up and never needs to be asked—she volunteers her time willingly to go above and beyond, continually working to improve the Credit Union. Monica embodies everything you’d want in a Five-Star employee.”
Sue continued, “I’ve had the distinct pleasure of working directly with Monica throughout these 25 years and deeply appreciate all she does for the Information Systems team and Eglin FCU. Today is about celebrating, appreciating, and thanking her for an incredible career and lasting impact.”
Monica began her career at Eglin Federal Credit Union on Sept. 5, 2000, as a part-time ATM Teller at the Fort Walton Beach Branch. In July 2002, she transitioned to a full-time ATM Teller role, where she excelled for more than 18 years. In September 2020, Monica was promoted to computer operator II for ATM/ITM, and nearly a year later, she advanced to her current role as senior ATM/ITM operator (computer operator III).
At the Operations Center breakfast, Monica reflected on her 25-year journey with Eglin Federal Credit Union. “I truly put my heart into everything I do at Eglin FCU—maybe sometimes a little too much heart,” she joked. “It’s been a pleasure working alongside such a dedicated team, and I’m proud of all we’ve accomplished together. I look forward to continued growth and success here at Eglin FCU.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Indirect Lending Manager Sara Houghton for 25 years of service
Pictured left to right: VP Lending David Lancaster, Indirect Lending Manager Sara Houghton and SVP Branch Operations Bron Ringstad
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 18, 2025) – Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to recognize Indirect Lending Manager Sara Houghton for 25 years of service. Sara currently resides in Niceville.
A celebration was held at the Operations Center on Wednesday, Sept. 16 to honor her milestone. SVP of Branch Operations Bron Ringstad said, “Today, we celebrate Sara’s incredible 25-year journey with Eglin FCU and the many roles she’s excelled in along the way. Her talent and leadership have always stood out to me — she knows how to keep her team aligned and the ship sailing smoothly. Watching her growth over the years has been truly inspiring. When you look around this room, it’s clear how deeply her team respects and cares for her — and that speaks volumes about her character.”
Sara Houghton began her career at Eglin Federal Credit Union on Sept. 18, 2000, as a full-time PAL Processor. Two years later, she advanced to Senior PAL Assistant. In June 2005, she transitioned to the Destin Branch as a Loan Counselor, and in November 2006, she was promoted to Loan Supervisor, a role in which she provided outstanding service for more than seven years.
In August 2014, Sara began specializing in dealer-based financing as an Indirect Lending Officer. Her continued growth in the department led to her promotion to Indirect Lending Supervisor in August 2020, and ultimately to Indirect Lending Manager in February 2021.
During her celebration, Sara shared, “It’s been a wonderful 25 years at Eglin FCU. I truly love what I do, and I’m deeply grateful for all the amazing people I’ve had the honor of working and growing with over the years. I cherish the memories we’ve made together and look forward to creating even more in the years ahead.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin FCU donates over $50,000 to support suicide prevention by sponsoring Bring Hope Now’s Dragon Boat Race and Festival
Pictured left to right: Mortgage Services Loan Closer/Team Rocket Captain Jesus Morales Ramos, Loan Services Manager/Rowing Stones Captain Hunter Nichols, AVP Contact Center Operations/Ready Oar Knot Captain Ruth Fennell, Bring Hope Now Representative Kathy Houchins, President/CEO Cathie Staton and Bring Hope Now Executive Director Peggy Brockman
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 6, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to be a presenting sponsor for Bring Hope Now’s Dragon Boat Race and Festival for the third consecutive year. In September 2025, Eglin FCU teams — Ready Oar Knot, Rowing Stones and Team Rocket — competed in the event to support suicide prevention. Through sponsorships and employee-led fundraising efforts, Eglin FCU has donated a total of $50,865 to the cause over the past three years. More than $20,000 of that total was raised by employees through annual initiatives such as dessert auctions and luncheons. This year alone, Eglin FCU employees raised $9,465 — nearly $2,200 more than last year and more than double the amount raised in 2023.
Bring Hope Now, Inc. was founded in response to rising suicide rates in Okaloosa County and surrounding areas. Eglin Federal Credit Union was one of the first organizations to support their peer-to-peer youth programs and Hope on the Line — a specialized curriculum for active-duty service members. Bring Hope Now launched the Bring Hope Dragon Boat Race and Festival, uniting local organizations to raise funds and awareness for suicide prevention.
Bring Hope Now Executive Director Peggy Brockman commented, "I've always said, our mission five years ago to start peer-to-peer Suicide Prevention programs in every school would not have been possible without the generosity and support of Eglin Federal Credit Union and its employees. The passion the teams bring to the Dragon Boat Race and its cause is inspiring. Because of them, we have been able to donate over $20,000 to the Okaloosa County School District the past two years to support our CARE Crews in each school. That's huge! We are forever grateful for having such a caring community partner like Eglin FCU."
AVP of Contact Center Operations Ruth Fennell has served as a team captain for all three years and remains deeply committed to the cause. She shared, “This event brings our employees together around a powerful mission — suicide prevention. I’m constantly inspired by our team’s energy and generosity. The camaraderie, the excitement and the sheer fun of dragon boat racing make it a highlight of the year. But it’s also about something bigger. Every team member shows up with purpose. We row for someone who needs to know they’re not alone. At Eglin FCU, we row as one team. Every dollar raised is a message of hope, and every stroke is a step toward saving lives.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Celebrates Habitat for Humanity Okaloosa Home Dedications
Eglin FCU President/CEO Cathie Staton and Habitat Okaloosa Chairman Elect Frankie Gibbs congratulate homeowners Kassandra Hatten and Samarian Thrift.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 17, 2025) – Eglin Federal Credit Union proudly participated in the dedication ceremony for Habitat for Humanity’s 74th and 75th new home builds in Okaloosa County. As a financial partner in the construction of both homes located in Crestview, Eglin FCU was honored to support this meaningful initiative.
The recipient of the 74th home was Samarian Thrift, a full-time mother and caregiver to a child with special needs. The 74th home is the first ADA home built by Habitat for Humanity Okaloosa, while the milestone 75th home was presented to one of Eglin FCU’s own — Card Services Representative Kassandra Hatten.
“There are over 7,000 languages in the world, yet none can truly express what Eglin FCU and Habitat for Humanity have done for my family,” homeowner Kassandra expressed. “Working for Eglin FCU is more than just a job. It’s a community, a family and a source of opportunity. This home isn’t just fresh paint or new grass; it’s safety, dignity, education, and freedom. Eglin FCU and Habitat have shown me grace and love, while also teaching the value of honesty and perseverance. I’m deeply honored and grateful to be part of both families.”
Cathie Staton, president and CEO of Eglin Federal Credit Union, shared remarks at the dedication. “It’s an incredible honor to celebrate something special — a new beginning, a new chapter, and a new home for these deserving families. At Eglin Federal Credit Union, we believe in the power of community and the philosophy of ‘people helping people.’ Partnering with Habitat for Humanity reflects our core values and commitment to building hope and opportunity. Today, we celebrate that when we work together with purpose and compassion, we can build more than financial wellbeing. We build hope, stability and opportunity. Thank you to Habitat Okaloosa and everyone who contributed to making this dream a reality. Congratulations, and welcome home!”
Habitat for Humanity Okaloosa is a nonprofit that builds safe, affordable homes for families in need — offering a hand up, not a handout. Partner families invest 300 hours of sweat equity and receive zero-interest mortgages, with payments reinvested into future builds. With support from more than 600 volunteers annually, Habitat completes two to four homes each year. Its ReStores in Fort Walton Beach and Crestview sell donated goods at discounted prices, helping to fund construction projects and promote sustainability.
Frankie Gibbs, chairman of the board of directors for Habitat for Humanity Okaloosa, said, “It’s an incredible honor to celebrate the dedication of houses 74 and 75. When Habitat Okaloosa completed its first home over 30 years ago, the sense of accomplishment was profound. That feeling remains with every new dedication. Watching homeowners experience the joy of achieving a lifelong dream is deeply moving. I’m sincerely grateful to the staff, volunteers, friends and financial partner who make these homes possible.”
“I will always be thankful for all the land donations from the City of Crestview and Eglin Federal Credit Union for paying the costs to build Homes 74 and 75,” said Nitsi Bennet, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity in Okaloosa County. “I’m also grateful to our lunch providers for the meals for our volunteers on Saturdays. They will never know how much they impacted our volunteers. Please know that it is you who made Habitat Okaloosa special.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes PAL & Title Supervisor Lela Corlew for 25 years of service
From left to right: President/CEO Cathie Staton, PAL/Title Supervisor Lela Corlew and Loan Services Manager Hunter Nichols
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 17, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate PAL & Title Supervisor Lela Corlew for 25 years of service. Lela currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
On Wednesday, Oct. 15, a celebratory breakfast was held at the Operations Center to honor Lela’s milestone anniversary. Friends, family and coworkers gathered to recognize her dedication and contributions.
Loan Services Manager Hunter Nichols shared his admiration, saying, “What stands out to me about Lela is how she treats her coworkers like family and speaks about Eglin FCU as if it’s her home. Her dedication to her work is something I deeply appreciate. When you give Lela an assignment, she goes above and beyond to find an answer or solution — even if it means spending countless hours on the phone with state DMVs or dealerships. Her integrity, work ethic and consistency have helped shape Eglin FCU into what it is today. She continues to be a shining example of a five-star employee.”
Lela began her career with Eglin Federal Credit Union in October 2000 as a part-time Call Center Member Services Representative at the Fort Walton Beach branch. In 2004, she transitioned into the role of part-time Special Services Representative, continuing to build her expertise in member support. In February 2007, Lela was promoted to full-time Member Service Counselor at the Mary Esther branch. She briefly served as a Returned Items Representative in 2009 before returning to Mary Esther as a Member Service Counselor in 2010, where she spent over a decade providing exceptional service. In June 2021, Lela advanced to her current position as PAL & Title Supervisor at the Operations Center. In this role, she leads a team of PAL & Title Processors, ensuring accuracy, efficiency and a continued commitment to Eglin FCU’s mission.
“The comments about Eglin FCU feeling like family couldn’t be more true,” Lela said. “Whether we’ve worked together for years or just a short time, each of you means the world to me and holds a special place in my heart. I’ve truly enjoyed serving Eglin FCU over the past 25 years, and I look forward to continuing this journey with my work family and making a difference for our members, because that’s what it’s all about.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Gerta Hardy Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s 5-Star Performer Award for the Third Quarter of 2025
Pictured left to right: Eglin Branch Manager Nikki Quimby, Eglin Member Service Supervisor Gerta Hardy and President/CEO Cathie Staton
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Nov. 3, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce that Eglin Member Service Supervisor Gerta Hardy has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the Third Quarter of 2025. Gerta has been employed with the Credit Union since February 2014 and currently resides in Crestview. The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces Eglin FCU's Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Gerta was nominated by a colleague who highlighted her exceptional leadership, resilience and commitment to Eglin FCU’s values. They described how she consistently brings positivity and determination to her role, even in the face of adversity. During a particularly challenging period — working without air conditioning in the peak of summer and navigating staffing transitions — Gerta stepped up without hesitation. She unified the team, took on responsibilities across both the Member Services and Teller departments, and ensured operations continued smoothly. The nominator also emphasized Gerta’s respectful demeanor, trustworthiness, and proactive approach, describing her as a reliable presence and a driving force behind their branch’s success.
“Today we celebrate Gerta,” said Eglin Branch Manager Nikki Quimby. “Every day, she brings energy, focus and a sense of unity to our team. Her dedication keeps us motivated and connected. Gerta is truly exceptional — the definition of a 5-star employee.”
Gerta began her career with Eglin Federal Credit Union in 2014 as a part-time Teller at the Eglin Branch. Her dedication and strong work ethic quickly earned her a full-time Teller position in 2015, followed by a promotion to Member Service Counselor in 2016. Throughout her tenure, Gerta has primarily served members at the Eglin Branch but also spent time at the North Crestview and South Crestview Branches. In 2023, she was promoted to her current role as Eglin Member Service Supervisor. Her extensive experience as both a Teller and Member Service Counselor has made her an invaluable leader and resource for her team.
“I truly love my team and the company I work for. It means so much to me to lead such an incredible group — they genuinely make my job easy,” Gerta said, moved by the recognition from her peers. “It’s an honor to represent Eglin FCU. With the new Eglin AFB branch on the horizon, we’re excited for what’s ahead. Get ready for Team Eglin!”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Jabari Clayton receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s 5-Star Performer Award for the fourth quarter of 2025
Pictured left to right: Loan Services Supervisor Leigh Lewis, Loan Services Representative Jabari Clayton, Loan Services Manager Hunter Nichols and VP Lending David Lancaster
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 3, 2026) – Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce that Loan Services Representative Jabari Clayton has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the fourth quarter of 2025. Jabari has been employed with the Credit Union since June 2022 and currently resides in Fort Walton Beach. The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces Eglin FCU's Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Jabari was nominated by multiple employees who praised his respectful nature and attentive communication style. His colleagues note that when speaking with him, he genuinely listens and values what you have to say. His positive attitude is infectious and serves to boost morale inside and outside of his department. He is reliable, knowledgeable and can be counted on for providing accurate information. When questions arise that fall outside his area of expertise, Jabari takes the time to understand his members’ needs, ensuring they receive the correct support in an efficient manner. As a participant in the 2025 Emerging Leaders class, he was often the first to volunteer answers and contribute to discussions, demonstrating his genuine desire to learn and grow. His positive attitude uplifts those around him and fosters a welcoming environment for members and employees alike.
Loan Services Manager Hunter Nichols echoed the nominators’ sentiments, adding, “Jabari’s genuine care for others, strong work ethic and consistent excellence make him truly deserving of our 5-Star Performer recognition.”
“Jabari joined the Loan Services team during a time of significant change, and he is a shining example of how we stive to provide the best service to our members every day,” said Loan Services Supervisor Leigh Lewis. “The Credit Union as a whole benefits from Jabari’s enthusiasm and genuine desire to help, and I couldn’t be prouder to have him on my team.”
Jabari began his career with Eglin FCU in 2022 as a full-time Teller at the Hurlburt Branch. Six months later, he was promoted to Member Service Counselor at the Hurlburt Branch. In February 2024, Jabari moved into his current position as a Loan Services Representative at the Operations Center.
“Knowing that my efforts and contributions are truly valued means so much to me,” Jabari shared. “I’m fortunate to have such supportive leadership, and I absolutely love my team — they feel like a second family. I am motivated by the collaborative environment within my department and appreciate the friendly, caring culture I’ve experienced throughout my tenure with Eglin FCU.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognized with Designation of Savings Excellence Award
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. – Eglin Federal Credit Union was one of five credit unions nationwide to earn the Designation of Savings Excellence (DOSE) Award for its efforts during Veteran Saves Week 2025. The DOSE Award is an industry-respected annual honor that recognizes financial institutions that actively and effectively promote saving strategies during Veteran Saves Week, which took place Nov. 4–7, 2025.
Veteran Saves Week is a national initiative launched by America Saves in 2023 to help the veteran community build financial stability through practical, real-life saving strategies. The program focuses on meeting individuals where they are, encouraging small steps and promoting achievable progress.
“Eglin Federal Credit Union is honored to receive the DOSE Award,” said Cathie Staton, Eglin FCU President and CEO. “We are proud to serve a thriving military and veteran community with services, support and solutions that simplify their financial lives. Our Field of Membership includes active and retired military personnel who are assigned to or receiving services from Eglin Air Force Base, Hurlburt Field, Duke Field, Camp Rudder or the 7th Special Forces Group. Veterans residing in Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton counties are also eligible for membership. Partnering with Veteran Saves Week was a natural fit, as we share a commitment to helping veterans, transitioning service members and their families build financial readiness for life after service.”
Through the collective efforts of Eglin Federal Credit Union and more than 900 participating organizations, Veteran Saves Week 2025 saw nearly $1.9 million worth of deposits into new and existing savings accounts and generated $370,000 in pledged deposits toward personal savings goals. Outreach efforts included educational resources and social media campaigns that invited veterans to take the Veteran Saves Pledge.
“At its core, Veteran Saves Week encourages a financial check-in so Veterans and transitioning service members can better understand their day-to-day finances,” said Krystel Spell, the program manager of Veteran Saves. “This year, we were especially mindful of the moment we were in. Many households are making tough decisions, adjusting priorities, and responding to unexpected financial changes. The organizations recognized this year helped make saving feel realistic for Veterans and service members, even during uncertain times.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes AVP of Contact Center Operations Ruth Fennell for 35 years of service
Pictured left to right: SVP Branch Operations Bron Ringstad, AVP Branch Operations Lesli Harding, AVP Contact Center Operations Ruth Fennell and AVP Operations Projects and Training Loren Stokes
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 12, 2026)– Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Assistant Vice President of Contact Center Operations Ruth Fennell for 35 years of service. Ruth currently resides in Niceville.
On Wednesday, Feb. 11, a golf-themed celebratory breakfast was held at the Operations Center to honor Ruth’s milestone anniversary. Friends and coworkers gathered to recognize her dedication and contributions.
To kick off the event, SVP of Branch Operations Bron Ringstad reflected on Ruth’s career by taking attendees “down the Eglin FCU fairway,” symbolizing her decades of commitment and the many roles she’s held at the Credit Union. “Today we gather to celebrate an incredible milestone, 35 years of dedication, leadership and heart,” Bron said. “Ruth’s performance has always been consistent and impressive. Our members’ needs are at the forefront of her decisions, and she sets the standard for delivering excellent member service. Ruth’s energy is infectious, her stride is confident, and she is a seasoned pro who always delivers — and her best shots are yet to come.”
Ruth began her career with Eglin Federal Credit Union in February 1991 as a Mail Branch Title Clerk at the Fort Walton Beach Branch. Over the next 13 years, Ruth honed her Credit Union skills as a Loan Counselor, Real Estate Loan Counselor, Data Processing Operator and Data Processing ATM Specialist.
In August 2004, Ruth was selected for the Manager Trainee program and, by December, was promoted to Assistant Branch Manager. From 2005 to 2023, she served as a key leader within the Credit Union, holding positions as Collections Branch Manager, South Crestview Branch Manager, Eglin Branch Manager, Fort Walton Beach Branch Manager, Branch Operations Manager and Call Center Operations Manager.
In October 2023, Ruth was promoted to Assistant Vice President of Account Services. In January 2025, she assumed her current role as AVP of Contact Center Operations, where her decades of experience and leadership continue to make a positive impact on her team and the Credit Union.
After sinking a putt and donning a green jacket to celebrate her master-level career performance, Ruth said, “It’s hard to believe it’s been 35 years! The professionalism and kindness our employees show each other makes Eglin FCU a great place to work, and I’m honored to lead a team that is dedicated to delivering 5-Star service to our members. The strategic vision set forth by our senior leadership and the tremendous growth I’ve witnessed are truly inspiring. Thirty-five years in, I’m proud of the long game we’ve played together, and I’m ready for the next stretch of the course.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Member Service Counselor Anna Klepser for 25 years of service
Pictured left to right: President/CEO Cathie Staton, Member Service Counselor Anna Klepser and Bluewater Bay Branch Manager Shannon Whitaker
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (March 9, 2026) – Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Bluewater Bay Member Service Counselor Anna Klepser for 25 years of service. Anna currently resides in Niceville.
A celebratory breakfast was held on March 6 at the Bluewater Bay Branch to honor Anna’s milestone anniversary. Friends, family and coworkers gathered to recognize her longtime dedication and contributions.
“Anna has exemplified integrity, commitment and care through every challenge and every success over her 25-year career at Eglin FCU,” said Bluewater Bay Branch Manager Shannon Whitaker. “Her hard work has strengthened our organization and helped us serve our members with excellence. Anna’s loyalty and professionalism are deeply appreciated, and her positive impact on our team and the local community is truly felt. We’re grateful for her 25 years of outstanding service — and we’re hoping for many more.”
Anna began her career with Eglin Federal Credit Union on March 1, 2001, as a Teller at the Mary Esther Branch. In 2003, she transferred to the Eglin Branch to serve as a Membership Officer and was promoted to Senior Membership Officer two years later. In 2008, Anna continued to develop her member service skills by becoming a Member Service Counselor at the Eglin Branch. The following year, she stepped away from Branch Operations to work as a Human Resources Assistant. She returned to Operations in 2011 as a Branch Member Service Floater, supporting multiple locations. In October 2013, Anna moved into her current role as a Member Service Counselor at the Bluewater Bay Branch, where she has been an invaluable resource to her team and a trusted, friendly face to members who visit the branch specifically for her assistance.
“I’ve been with Eglin FCU half my life, which probably explains why everyone here feels like family,” Anna commented. “My granddaughter is now the age my daughter was when I started, which really puts time into perspective and reminds me how many wonderful memories we’ve made, challenges we’ve overcome and accomplishments we’ve shared. It’s been a joy to grow with such an exceptional team. I look forward to more years of serving our members and making new memories with my Credit Union family.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union partners with Okaloosa Saves for the annual Teach a Child to Save campaign
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (March 31, 2026) - Eglin Federal Credit Union has partnered with Okaloosa Saves for the annual Teach Children to Save campaign April 1 – June 30. Youth, 17 and younger, are encouraged to set a savings goal and make a deposit into their savings account. Their names will be entered into a random drawing for 10 children to win a $50 deposit into their savings account from Okaloosa Saves.
Participating banks and credit unions include:
CCB Bank in Niceville
Eglin Federal Credit Union
MidSouth Bank
Okaloosa County Teachers Federal Credit Union
Origin Bank
PenFed in Shalimar
Renasant Bank
United Fidelity
Last year, 102 youths from Eglin FCU and Renasant Bank under the age of 18 participated in the Okaloosa Saves Teach a Child to Save campaign, with deposits totaling $27,058.82. Since the program began in 2004, 2,497 children have made deposits totaling $420,668.34.
Eglin Federal Credit Union President and CEO Cathie Staton said, “Each year, we look forward to the Teach a Child to Save campaign because building strong financial habits early in life is one of the most meaningful gifts we can give the next generation. Teaching children the importance of saving not only helps them understand the value of money, but also equips them with lifelong skills in responsibility, planning, and goal setting. For more than 20 years, Eglin Federal Credit Union has been honored to partner with Okaloosa Saves to support financial education across Northwest Florida. Financial wellness helps build stronger families which ripples outward to strengthen entire communities.”
“Our Teach a Child to Save campaign is a valuable program to teach children in northwest Florida the importance of thoughtful financial management,” said Okaloosa Saves Board Chair Laura Coale. “Each year, we’re excited to bring back our youth savings program because building smart money habits early makes a lifelong difference.”
Savings Tips for Parents:
Talk about the importance of budgeting and saving money
Visit your local Eglin FCU branch to open a savings account or deposit into an existing account
Teach the basics of investing
Encourage them to be entrepreneurs
Be a role model
For additional information and rules, visit Okaloosa Saves.
About Okaloosa Saves:
Okaloosa Saves, a part of the national America Saves program, was founded in 2003 as a 501(c)3 encouraging individuals to build wealth and reduce debt. In 2025, the organization was awarded the Savings Champion Award by America Saves. Learn more at okaloosasaves.com.
About America Saves:
America Saves is a non-profit organization that uses principles of behavioral economics and social marketing to motivate, encourage and support everyday Americans to save money, reduce debt, build wealth and create better financial habits. America Saves encourages individuals and families to take the America Saves pledge, a tool that empowers them to commit to save successfully with a plan. Thousands of non-profit, government, and corporate organizations partner with America Saves through local, regional, statewide and national campaigns both year-round and during America Saves Week. America Saves is an initiative of the Consumer Federation of America (CFA), a non-profit, pro-consumer organization of over 270 consumer education, advocacy, and cooperative members dedicated to advancing consumer interest. Learn more at americasaves.org.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes ACH Specialist Suyen Berezo for 25 years of service
Pictured left to right: ACH Manager John Cagle, President/CEO Cathie Staton and ACH Specialist Suyen Berezo
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (April 2, 2026) – Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate ACH Specialist Suyen Berezo for 25 years of service. Suyen currently resides in Crestview.
On Wednesday, April 1, a celebratory breakfast was held at the Fort Walton Beach Branch to honor Suyen’s milestone anniversary. Friends and coworkers gathered to recognize her dedication and impact on the Credit Union.
After a lighthearted April Fools’ announcement that Suyen would also be retiring — a joke that briefly fooled the entire room — ACH Manager John Cagle praised her contributions, saying, “Suyen is a true leader within the ACH department and someone I would consider the perfect employee. She’s kind, professional and always willing to go above and beyond for our members and employees. She supports the frontline staff with her extensive knowledge and consistently demonstrates care and patience. I’m glad to have her on my team, and the Credit Union is a better place because she’s here.”
“Suyen is genuine, dependable and takes pride in doing her job well,” said VP of Payment Systems Amanda Lewis Hendrickson. “I remember how challenging 2020 was for the ACH department with the influx of stimulus checks and all the uncertainty during that time. Her workload was immense, but Suyen showed up every day with a positive attitude, a smile and a commitment to helping our members navigate an unprecedented situation. I am truly grateful for everything she did then, everything she does now and the role she will continue to play in our success.”
Suyen began her career with Eglin FCU on March 29, 2001, as a Teller at the Bluewater Bay Branch. In 2004, she moved to the South Crestview Branch where she continued to work as a Teller for the next eight years. From 2012 to 2016, Suyen served as Accounting Assistant and later as Accounting Clerk/Payroll Assistant at the Fort Walton Beach Branch. She moved into her current role as ACH Specialist in 2016, where she has been an important asset to her team and to the Credit Union for almost a decade.
“Since starting in 2001, I’ve seen Eglin FCU grow from just a handful of branches to what it is today,” Suyen said. “I’m proud to be part of that growth and grateful for ‘my people’ in the ACH department. They are my second family. I look forward to continuing my journey here with them and with so many others who are dear to my heart. You know who you are!”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Member Service Counselor Kimberly Hixon for 30 years of service
North Crestview Branch Manager Marilyn Boyer congratulates Member Service Counselor Kimberly Hixon for 30 years of service at Eglin Federal Credit Union.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (April 6, 2026) – Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Member Service Counselor II Kimberly Hixon for 30 years of service. Kimberly currently resides in Crestview.
On Thursday, April 2, a celebratory breakfast was held at the North Crestview Branch to honor Kimberly’s milestone anniversary. Friends, family and coworkers gathered to recognize her dedication and contributions.
North Crestview Branch Manager Marilyn Boyer congratulated Kimberly, saying, “Kim has served the North Crestview Branch for 20 of her 30 years with Eglin FCU, and we deeply value the wisdom and knowledge she has gained during that time. She consistently provides excellent member service and is always willing to share her expertise with her teammates. Kim is a fixture in this community, and members regularly ask for her by name. We also want to congratulate her on her well-deserved promotion to Member Service Supervisor at the DeFuniak Springs Branch, which will open soon. While we will miss her, we are proud of her accomplishments, wish her the best and know she will continue to do great things for our members.”
Kimberly began her career with Eglin FCU on April 23, 1996, as a Teller at the Eglin AFB Branch. The following year she moved to the Bluewater Bay Branch as a Teller and was quickly promoted to Membership Officer. From 2003 to 2006 Kimberly worked at the South Crestview Branch as a Teller and then at the North Crestview Branch as Senior Teller and Membership Officer. In 2007, Kimberly moved into the role of Member Service Counselor at North Crestview, where she diligently served our membership for over 17 years. In 2024, Kimberly’s dedication to excellence was rewarded with a promotion to Member Service Counselor II. Looking ahead, Kimberly will be joining the DeFuniak Springs Branch as Member Service Supervisor when that Branch opens later this year.
“I wouldn’t be who I am today without Eglin FCU and the amazing people I’ve met along the way,” Kimberly said. “Everyone here has played a part in my journey, and I truly consider this a family. The growth I’ve witnessed over the years has been inspiring, and I appreciate that our growth has always kept our members’ needs top of mind. Over the years, change has meant learning to adapt to new policies, procedures and ways of operating, and I’ve always embraced those challenges as opportunities for improvement — enhancing both our efficiency and the member experience. Our members are our purpose, and I am honored to serve them and always strive to exceed their expectations. It’s bittersweet to be leaving my Crestview team, but I’m excited for my next chapter at the DeFuniak Springs Branch and look forward to tackling the challenges and celebrating the successes that lie ahead.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Erica Hennion receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s Five-Star Performer Award for the first quarter of 2026
Pictured left to right: Account Services Manager Adam Dudney, Account Services Representative Erica Hennion, Account Services Supervisor Connie Brown and AVP Contact Center Operations Ruth Fennell
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (May 4, 2026) – Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce that Account Services Representative Erica Hennion has been selected as the Five-Star Performer of the first quarter of 2026. Erica has been employed with the Credit Union since January 2023 and currently resides in Mary Esther. The Five-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program honoring team members who consistently demonstrate Eglin FCU’s Core Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Erica was nominated by her coworkers who described her as “the heart of Account Services,” commending her strong knowledge, reliability and positive attitude. Known for anticipating members’ needs and navigating complex situations with care, Erica delivers exceptional service while supporting and developing her teammates. She is recognized for her patience, attention to detail and willingness to share her expertise, helping foster a collaborative, inclusive environment. Whether coordinating team celebrations or creating opportunities for meaningful connection, Erica consistently puts others first and serves as a role model of the Credit Union’s Five-Star values.
“While Erica excels at serving members on the phone every day, her impact reaches far beyond outstanding customer service,” said Account Services Manager Adam Dudney. “She brings people together, strengthens our department and consistently uplifts those around her. We are incredibly grateful for the leadership and positivity she brings to our team.”
Account Services Supervisor Connie Brown added, “Erica’s dedication to both our members and her teammates truly sets her apart. She leads by example, steps up without hesitation and makes a meaningful difference every day. When our team thrives, our members benefit, and Erica plays a vital role in that success.”
Erica began her career with Eglin Federal Credit Union on Jan. 17, 2023, as an Account Services Representative I and was promoted to Account Services Representative II in April 2025. In just three years, she has made a lasting impact, and colleagues are confident she will continue contributing to the Credit Union’s success for years to come.
Reflecting on her recognition, Erica said, “I’m incredibly grateful to work alongside such talented and supportive teammates who are always willing to help, share ideas and lift one another up. This honor feels like more than just an individual achievement — it underscores the culture of teamwork and collaboration at Eglin FCU, and I am proud to be part of such a great organization.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin FCU supports suicide prevention by sponsoring Bring Hope Now’s Dragon Boat Race and Festival for the 4th year
Eglin FCU team captains Hunter Nichols and Ruth Fennell as well as Neko Stubblefield, SVP of Membership Community Development, present a check for over $7,000 to Bring Hope Now. In addition, Eglin FCU made a $10,000 corporate donation, bringing the total contribution to more than $17,000.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (May 7, 2026) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to be a Presenting Sponsor for Bring Hope Now’s Dragon Boat Race and Festival for the 4th consecutive year. This year’s event was held May 2 at the newly renovated Landing Park in downtown Fort Walton Beach.
Through employee-led initiatives such as dessert auctions and luncheons, Eglin FCU teams Anchor Management and Royal Eagles raised over $7,000 for Bring Hope Now. In addition, Eglin FCU made a $10,000 corporate donation, bringing the total contribution to more than $17,000.
“At Eglin FCU, giving back is a core responsibility, and we are proud to support organizations making a meaningful difference in the communities we call home,” said Neko Stubblefield, SVP of Membership Community and Development. “Supporting Bring Hope Now allows us to champion mental health awareness and suicide prevention, and our employees embody that commitment. From rowing and fundraising to volunteering their time, they continue to show exceptional dedication to this important cause.”
Bring Hope Now launched the Bring Hope Dragon Boat Race and Festival in 2023, uniting local organizations to raise funds and awareness for suicide prevention. Bring Hope Now’s mission is to save lives in our community by reducing suicide among youth and the military through education and advocacy for mental health and sustainable support. Funds raised in 2026 will support building a youth residential mental health care center in Fort Walton Beach, as well as supporting 42 school C.A.R.E. Crews.
“We are incredibly excited that this year’s Dragon Boat Race and Festival brings us closer to making a much-needed youth residential mental health care center for youth ages 8 to 17 a reality in our community,” said Peggy Brockman, Executive Director of Bring Hope Now. “Events like this demonstrate the power of community coming together to save lives and offer hope. We are deeply grateful to Eglin Federal Credit Union for serving as our Presenting Sponsor for the fourth year — this impact would not be possible without their continued support and partnership.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union opens new ATM/Video Teller Drive-thru in Santa Rosa Beach
Eglin Federal Credit Union held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new ATM/Video Teller Drive-thru in Santa Rosa Beach on May 11, 2026.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (May 11, 2026) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce its Santa Rosa Beach ATM/Video Teller Drive-thru located at 4634 U.S. Highway 98 W. is now open.
Touch the ATM/Video Teller screen to speak with an Eglin FCU Video Teller Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Fridays until 7 p.m. Video Tellers are local employees working from our Operations Center in Fort Walton Beach and are happy to assist members with deposits, withdrawals, transfers, payments and any other general account questions. The ATMs are available 24/7 using your Eglin FCU ATM or Debit Card. Learn more at eglinfcu.org/VideoTeller.
“We are excited to open our beautiful drive-thru location in Santa Rosa Beach, located right next to Louis Louis Restaurant,” said Eglin Federal Credit Union President and CEO Cathie Staton. “The Freeport Branch opened in 2024 and won the Scenic Walton Design Excellence Award last year. The DeFuniak Springs location will be opening our full-service Branch soon and features the same design excellence as the Freeport Branch. Our employees are looking forward to providing 5-Star Service, Support and Solutions to more Eglin Federal Credit Union members in Walton County.”
If you are not already a member, joining our family is easy. There are many ways to qualify for membership. Check out our Membership Eligibility Wizard at eglinfcu.org/eligibility. Join online at eglinfcu.org/join. To learn more about the many benefits of membership go to eglinfcu.org/benefits.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union to celebrate grand opening of new DeFuniak Springs Branch
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (June 8, 2026) - The community is invited to attend a grand opening celebration for Eglin Federal Credit Union’s new DeFuniak Springs Branch, located at 677 U.S. Highway 90 W., on Thursday, June 25, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Swing by and stay cool with free Dippin’ Dots ice cream while supplies last and enter for a chance to win a YETI® Roadie cooler, courtesy of Eglin FCU. Rules are at SwingByStayCool rules. The public is invited to tour the new branch and learn more about Eglin FCU membership. Additional parking for this event may be available at Consolidated Ace Hardware.
The DeFuniak Springs Branch is Eglin FCU’s second full-service branch in Walton County and its 12th branch overall. The Freeport Branch opened in July 2024, and the Santa Rosa Beach ATM/Video Teller Drive-thru located at 4634 U.S. Highway 98 W., opened in May 2026. The DeFuniak Springs Branch was designed and built by La Macchia Group, which also served as the design-build firm for Eglin FCU’s Freeport Branch, Pace Branch and Operations Center.
Eglin Federal Credit Union offers membership opportunities to individuals who live, work, attend school or worship within its geographic field of membership in Walton County. Visit the new DeFuniak Springs Branch during business hours to learn more about membership or go to eglinfcu.org/join.
The DeFuniak Springs Branch is approximately 4,400 square feet with an open design that features interactive touchscreens, a Coinstar™ machine, night drop, touchscreen Video Tellers and drive-thru ATMs, ensuring members have convenient access to their accounts.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Cruise on in to Eglin Federal Credit Union for America’s 250th Celebration Giveaway
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (June 22, 2026) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is inviting the community to join in celebrating America’s 250th birthday with in-branch festivities and an exciting summer promotion. The celebration will kick off July 1 and July 2, when each branch will offer complimentary cookies and patriotic-themed swag.
From July 1 through Aug. 31, Eglin FCU will host its “Cruise on in for America’s 250th Celebration Giveaway,” offering the public the opportunity to enter for a chance to win a five-day, four-night cruise vacation for two to Mexico, the Bahamas or the western Caribbean. Twelve winners, one per branch, will be randomly selected in a drawing.
Entries can be submitted in person at any Eglin FCU branch, with a limit of one entry per person per day. Participants must be 21 or older to enter. The events are designed to create a fun, welcoming atmosphere for members and guests while commemorating the nation’s milestone anniversary.
“This is a special opportunity for us to celebrate our country’s history while connecting with the communities we serve,” said SVP of Marketing and Public Relations Laura Coale. “We’re excited to provide a memorable experience for our members, welcome prospective members into our full-service locations, and give everyone a chance to win an unforgettable vacation.”
Complete giveaway rules and entry details are available at Eglin FCU branches and online at CruiseGiveaway2026 rules.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union opens new DeFuniak Springs Branch
Eglin Federal Credit Union held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new DeFuniak Springs Branch on June 25, 2026.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (June 25, 2026) - Eglin Federal Credit Union celebrated the grand opening of its new DeFuniak Springs Branch with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 25, 2026. Located at 677 US Highway 90 W, this is Eglin FCU’s second full-service branch and third location in Walton County. The Freeport Branch opened in July 2024, and the Santa Rosa Beach ATM/Video Teller Drive-thru located at 4634 U.S. Highway 98 W opened on May 11, 2026.
Eglin Federal Credit Union offers membership opportunities to individuals who live, work, attend school or worship within our geographic field of membership in Walton County. Visit the new DeFuniak Springs Branch during business hours to learn more about membership or go to eglinfcu.org/join.
“Our newest branch in DeFuniak Springs continues our tradition of delivering five-star service, personalized support and meaningful financial guidance to help our members achieve their goals,” said Eglin FCU President and CEO Cathie Staton. “Our members have looked forward to a full-service branch in DeFuniak Springs for many years, and I’m excited that day has finally arrived. We recognize that this milestone wouldn’t be possible without the loyal support of our members and community partners. The trust you place in us is something we take seriously, and we look forward to continuing to enhance the communities we serve while growing our Credit Union family.”
The community was invited to “Swing By & Stay Cool” at the event. Cumulus Broadcasting was on site spinning some tunes, Dippin’ Dots was offered and a drawing was held for two lucky attendees to enter and win a Yeti® Roadie cooler.
The DeFuniak Springs Branch is approximately 4,400 square feet with an open design that features interactive touchscreens, a Coinstar™ machine, night drop, touchscreen Video Tellers and drive-thru ATMs, ensuring members have convenient access to their accounts.
La Macchia Group is the design/build firm for the new DeFuniak Springs Branch. La Macchia also designed and built our recently opened Pace Branch, Freeport Branch, Operations Center and Santa Rosa Beach ATM/Video Teller Drive-thru.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Member Service Counselor Clasina Cox for 25 years of service
From left to right: Eglin AFB Branch Manager Nikki Manzie, Member Service Counselor Clasina Cox and AVP Branch Operations Lesli Harding
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (July 13, 2026)– Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Member Service Counselor Clasina Cox for 25 years of service. Clasina currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
On Thursday, July 9, a celebratory breakfast was held at the Eglin AFB Branch to honor Clasina’s milestone anniversary. Friends, family and coworkers gathered to recognize her dedication and contributions.
Eglin AFB Branch Manager Nikki Manzie praised Clasina's contributions, saying, "Clasina consistently shows up for her team and our members, anticipating needs and delivering exceptional service every single day. Her commitment to the team's success is clear in everything she does. She is focused on minimizing wait times for members and takes great pride in providing fast, efficient and accurate service. Her communication style is clear, concise and always thorough. What makes Clasina truly exceptional is her ability to combine her efficiency with genuine care and positivity in every interaction. That's a rare combination, and one that makes a lasting impact on both our team and our members."
Clasina began her career with Eglin FCU on July 9, 2001, as a part-time Teller at the Mary Esther Branch and was promoted to full-time Teller the following year. In 2007, she advanced to Membership Officer before transitioning later that year to Member Service Counselor at the Mary Esther Branch. She was promoted to Member Service Counselor II in 2008. In 2011, Clasina joined the Fort Walton Beach Branch as an Insurance Specialist. Three years later, she returned to the Member Service Counselor II role at the Fort Walton Beach Branch before moving to the Eglin AFB Branch in 2016, where she continues to serve members in her current position. Throughout her career, Clasina has built a reputation for providing exceptional member service and being a dependable, valued member of the Eglin FCU team.
“Twenty-five years ago, I never imagined that this would become my lifelong career, but I am so grateful to be here and for all the opportunities I’ve had with Eglin FCU,” Clasina reflected. “I’m fortunate to work with a team that not only prioritizes exceptional member service but also supports and celebrates one another through life’s important moments. I’ve had the pleasure of learning from some amazing co-workers over the years (you know who you are!) and that knowledge has helped me better serve my members, which is what it’s all about. It’s especially rewarding when members and teammates seek me out because of my experience and expertise. The Eglin AFB Branch is like a second home, and I look forward to more years of living my best life with Eglin FCU!”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union partnered with Okaloosa Saves in the Teach Children to Save campaign
Photo Caption: Winners of the Teaching Children to Save campaign were presented with a certificate by Okaloosa Saves before the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners budget meeting Tuesday, July 21.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (July 21, 2026) – Eglin Federal Credit Union partnered with Okaloosa Saves and six financial institutions for the annual Teach Children to Save campaign April 1 – June 30. Youth, 17 and younger, were encouraged to set a savings goal and make a deposit into their savings account. Their names were entered into a random drawing for 10 children to win a $50 deposit into their savings account from Okaloosa Saves. Winners were invited for recognition prior to the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners budget meeting on Tuesday, July 21 where they received certificates.
This year, 189 youths from Eglin FCU, Renasant Bank, CCB Bank, Midsouth Bank, Teachers Federal Credit Union, PenFed and United Fidelity under the age of 18 participated in the Okaloosa Saves Teach Children to Save campaign, with deposits totaling $42,337.39. Since the program began in 2004, 2,686 children have made deposits totaling $463,005.73.
The 10 winners were:
Cali Branson, Fort Walton Beach
Kate Kennedy, Niceville
Titus Kidder, Crestview
Khai Mays, Crestview
Alice Morton, Mary Esther
David Nelson, Valparaiso
Liam Law, Crestview
Marin Lee, Shalimar
Sofia Simeonova, Fort Walton Beach
Liam Walbert, Crestview
“Financial literacy is one of the most important life skills we can offer our children, and Okaloosa Saves, Teach Children to Save has been making a meaningful impact in our community for years,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Trey Goodwin. “By helping children understand the value of saving, budgeting, and making informed financial decisions, this program is building a strong foundation for future success. We are grateful for the commitment of everyone involved in equipping our young people with the financial knowledge and skills they need to thrive as adults.”
“There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing students gain an early understanding of the value of saving and responsible money management,” said Eglin Federal Credit Union President and CEO Cathie Staton. “Through our longstanding partnership with Okaloosa Saves, we’ve helped thousands of children build a foundation for financial success. We are proud to continue investing in financial education and inspiring the next generation to make informed financial choices throughout their lives.”
Sherry Harlow, APR, who serves as treasurer on the Okaloosa Saves board said, “After serving on the Okaloosa Saves board for 23 years, I'm continually inspired by the impact of Teach Children to Save. This year alone, 189 young savers deposited more than $42,000—one of the program's strongest years in more than a decade. Combined with the more than $463,000 saved by participants since 2004, these results demonstrate the lasting value of teaching financial literacy early and empowering children to build healthy financial habits that can last a lifetime.”
Savings Tips for Parents:
Talk about the importance of budgeting and saving money
Visit your local Eglin FCU branch to open a savings account or deposit into an existing account
Teach the basics of investing
Encourage them to be entrepreneurs
Be a role model
For additional information, visit Okaloosa Saves on Facebook or Okaloosa Saves.
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Andrew Funk receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s Five-Star Performer Award for the second quarter of 2026
Pictured left to right: SVP Marketing and Public Relations Laura Coale, President/CEO Cathie Staton, Facilities/Procurement Specialist Andrew Funk, Communications Manager Kathey Mitchell and SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer Gina Denny
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Aug. 3, 2026) – Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce that Facilities/Procurement Specialist Andrew Funk has been selected as the Five-Star Performer of the second quarter of 2026. Andrew has been employed with the Credit Union since May 2025 and currently resides in Niceville. The Five-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces Eglin FCU's Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and Engaged.
Andrew was nominated by his coworkers for consistently going above and beyond in his role, providing support across multiple departments, stepping in wherever needed and proactively addressing challenges throughout the Credit Union. Known for his calm, considerate and professional demeanor, Andrew approaches every situation with a positive attitude and willingness to help. In the short time he has been with Eglin FCU, his contributions have made a lasting impression at every level of the organization, earning praise from frontline employees to the President/CEO. His kindness, dependability and team-first mindset exemplify the qualities of a Five-Star Performer.
“Anyone who has interacted with Andrew can easily see why he earned this recognition,” said Marketing Communications Manager Kathey Mitchell. “He is the kind of person who quietly makes a difference every day. While ensuring things run smoothly behind the scenes, he also takes the time to connect with others and offer help whenever it’s needed. Andrew sees things that others may overlook and always does the right thing, even when it isn’t the easiest choice. His integrity, initiative and genuine concern for others are evident in everything he does, and I couldn’t be more proud to have him on our team.”
“One of the things I appreciate most about Andrew is his ability to build meaningful connections with people across the organization,” said SVP of Marketing and Public Relations Laura Coale. “Every interaction with him is marked by kindness, authenticity and often a good laugh. He has a way of making people feel comfortable while never losing sight of the work that needs to be done. That balance of professionalism, positivity and genuine care for others is what makes Andrew so special and so deserving of this recognition.”
Andrew joined Eglin FCU on May 13, 2025, as a full-time Facilities/Procurement Assistant. His strong work ethic, commitment to excellence and ability to build relationships across departments quickly distinguished him as a valuable member of the team. In recognition of his contributions and dedication, he was promoted to Facilities/Procurement Specialist in November 2025, less than six months after joining the Credit Union.
“I was genuinely caught off guard by this honor, which is saying something since I usually know what’s going on around here,” Andrew commented after the surprise announcement. “I am very thankful for this recognition, but even more thankful for the opportunity to work with so many wonderful, hardworking and kind people. It’s great to be part of the Eglin FCU family, and I’m excited to keep learning, growing and helping wherever I can.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Ribbon-cutting held for The Eglin Federal Credit Union Arts and Education Center in downtown Crestview
Ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Eglin Federal Credit Union Arts and Education Center in downtown Crestview
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 15, 2026) – Community leaders, Eglin FCU representatives and local residents gathered on Sept. 14, 2026, to celebrate the opening of The Eglin Federal Credit Union Arts and Education Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 189 N. Main Street in downtown Crestview.
The new center is a 3,000-square-foot, inclusive community space offering visual arts, music, theater, dance, tutoring, financial education, STEM programming and more. It will also serve as a venue for performances, family events and civic gatherings, while providing a platform for local artists, educators and leaders to share their talents and expertise. Serving residents of all ages, with a particular focus on under-resourced youth and families, the center is designed to foster creativity, lifelong learning and meaningful connections.
"The Eglin Federal Credit Union Arts and Education Center is an investment in the future of Crestview,” said Crestview Mayor JB Whitten. “By creating a welcoming space for learning, creativity and community engagement, we're expanding opportunities for our youth and families while contributing to the continued growth and vitality of downtown Crestview. We are grateful for Eglin Federal Credit Union's partnership and commitment to our community."
Located in the heart of downtown, the center is expected to bring new energy to the area by generating foot traffic and supporting nearby businesses. Beyond its economic impact, the facility reflects Crestview's ongoing commitment to growth and opportunity, while providing greater access to arts and educational programs for local youth and families.
"At Eglin Federal Credit Union, our mission extends beyond providing financial services,” said Eglin FCU President and CEO Cathie Staton. "We believe strong communities are built by investing in people. The Eglin Federal Credit Union Arts and Education Center reflects our commitment to expanding access to financial education, lifelong learning and personal development. We are proud to support a space that will empower individuals, inspire creativity and help shape a brighter future for generations to come."
The Eglin Federal Credit Union Arts and Education Center will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, with additional weekend hours available for select programs and events. For information about upcoming classes, activities and community gatherings, visit CityofCrestview.recdesk.com.
"The opening of The Eglin Federal Credit Union Arts and Education Center builds on the strong partnership between Eglin FCU and the City of Crestview," said Eglin FCU SVP of Membership and Community Development Neko Stubblefield. "From the Eglin Federal Credit Union Skate Park to this new community resource, we are proud to invest in projects that create opportunities for youth and support local families. Together, we're creating spaces where residents of all ages can learn, grow and thrive."
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin FCU Marketing Department recognized with the 2026 SPRF Lantern Award
Members of the Eglin FCU Marketing Department pose with their 2026 Lantern Award of Merit from SPRF
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 25, 2026) – The Eglin Federal Credit Union Marketing Department was recognized by the Southern Public Relations Federation (SPRF) with their 2026 Lantern Award on Sept. 22, 2026, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
The SPRF is a regional network of public relations and communications professionals serving Alabama, North Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi. The SPRF Lantern Awards honor outstanding public relations, communications, and marketing work across the Gulf South, recognizing campaigns and projects that demonstrate excellence in strategy, execution and measurable results.
Eglin FCU’s Spring 2025 auto loan campaign, Dive into Incredible Savings, was recognized with a 2026 Lantern Award of Merit in the Advertising & Publications category. The campaign delivered a strong return on investment while surpassing its goals for reach and engagement. Its authentic, community-focused creative approach captured the spirit of the Gulf Coast lifestyle and reinforced Eglin FCU's position as a trusted and competitive auto lender.
"Our Marketing team works diligently to create advertising that is both engaging and relevant to the communities we serve," said Eglin FCU President and CEO Cathie Staton. "I am proud to see their talent and dedication recognized by the SPRF. This award reflects our team’s creativity, hard work and commitment to supporting Eglin FCU's continued growth and success."
"We are proud to be recognized for our efforts," said Eglin FCU Senior Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations Laura Coale. "This campaign exemplifies our commitment to producing high-quality, in-house creative work that resonates with our members and communities. By combining local talent, recognizable Gulf Coast locations and our seasonal pre-approved auto loan strategy, we created a campaign that delivered exceptional results."
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Mary Calvert for 25 years of service
From left, SVP/Chief Information Officer Rocky Magee, IS Core Systems Operator II Mary Calvert, Information Systems Manager Susan Coup and AVP Information Systems Brittany Bunch celebrate Mary Calvert's 25-year anniversary with Eglin FCU.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 30, 2026) – Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Information Systems Core Systems Computer Operator II Mary Calvert for 25 years of service. Mary currently resides in Fort Walton Beach.
On Tuesday, Sept. 29, a celebratory breakfast was held at the Operations Center to honor Mary’s milestone anniversary. Friends and coworkers gathered to recognize her dedication and contributions.
"Thank you, Mary, for 25 years of outstanding service and commitment to Eglin Federal Credit Union,” said Information Systems Manager Susan Coup. “Your hard work, positive attitude and willingness to support others have made a lasting impact on both our members and your coworkers. As you celebrate this remarkable milestone and prepare for your retirement on January 4, we proudly recognize your achievements and the legacy you leave behind. Congratulations, and thank you for everything you have done for Eglin FCU."
Mary began her career with Eglin FCU on Aug. 31, 2001, as a full-time Teller at the Hurlburt Field Branch. For more than 20 years, she provided exceptional service to members while serving in that role. In July 2022, Mary was promoted to Information Systems Computer/Imaging Operator at the Fort Walton Beach Branch. She continued to advance within the Information Systems Department, earning a promotion to IS Core Systems Computer Operator I in August 2025. Just one month later, she was promoted again to IS Core Systems Computer Operator II, reflecting her dedication, expertise and continued growth within the organization.
"As I look back on the past 25 years, I am incredibly grateful for the people who have been part of my journey,” Mary reflected. “I’ve had the privilege of working alongside amazing teams who supported one another through challenges, celebrated successes and helped each other grow. Serving our members as a Teller was deeply rewarding, and I have also enjoyed supporting our employees in my current role within Information Systems. Eglin FCU has provided me with meaningful opportunities, lasting friendships and a strong sense of purpose throughout my career. As retirement approaches, I look forward to making the most of my remaining time with my Credit Union family while also embracing the exciting new chapter ahead."
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Wilma Taylor for 25 years of service
From left, Human Resources Supervisor Robin Lakes, Payroll and Benefits Specialist Wilma Taylor, SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer Gina Denny and AVP Human Resources Daniel Anderson celebrate Wilma’s 25-year anniversary with Eglin FCU.
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 5, 2026) – Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Payroll and Benefits Specialist Wilma Taylor for 25 years of service. Wilma currently resides in Crestview.
On Thursday, Oct. 1, a celebratory breakfast was held at the Fort Walton Beach Branch to honor Wilma’s milestone anniversary. Friends, family and coworkers gathered to recognize her dedication and contributions.
“For the majority of her career, Wilma has served in one of the most critical roles within our organization, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time,” said AVP of Human Resources Daniel Anderson. “Her professionalism, precision and commitment to excellence are evident in everything she does. She has made countless sacrifices to support our employees over the years, and that rare level of dedication deserves our deepest appreciation. Wilma approaches every challenge with her whole heart and has made a positive impact on the lives of everyone gathered here today and many others throughout her career.”
Human Resources Supervisor Robin Lakes creatively highlighted Wilma’s attributes using an acrostic: Wise, Intelligent, Loyal, Motivated and Approachable. Robin went on to say, “There have been many situations throughout the years that I could not have navigated without Wilma’s support. I am grateful for her positive influence, commitment to the Credit Union and, most importantly, her friendship.”
SVP/Chief Human Resources Officer Gina Denny closed out the remarks by saying, “When I think of Wilma, I think about her loyalty and reliability. She has been a steady presence through decades of growth and change, from her days as the sole payroll clerk to becoming one of our most trusted payroll and benefits professionals. Our employees have always been her priority, and I thank her for the role she has played in our organization’s continued success.”
Wilma began her career with Eglin FCU on Oct. 1, 2001, as a full-time Mail Teller at the Fort Walton Beach Branch, and in 2006 was promoted to Senior Mail Teller. In 2007, Wilma joined the Accounting Department as a Payroll Assistant. Over the next several years, she worked as Accounting Clerk for Employee Payroll and then Accounting/Payroll Specialist. In 2019, Wilma moved into the role of Payroll Specialist within the Human Resources Department. Wilma was promoted to her current position as Payroll and Benefits Specialist in 2021, where she expertly ensures accuracy of employee pay and benefits, supporting the financial wellbeing of Eglin FCU employees.
“I never expected to spend 25 years with one organization, but Eglin Federal Credit Union has always felt like family,” Wilma reflected. “I have formed lifelong friendships and had the privilege of working alongside incredible people who have invested in my growth and success. From learning the intricacies of payroll in the Accounting Department to expanding my knowledge of benefits within Human Resources, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors and leaders who encouraged me every step of the way. What I cherish most are the relationships I've built, the opportunity to help employees each day, and the moments spent celebrating milestones, achievements and special occasions together. It has truly been an honor to be part of the Eglin FCU family for the past 25 years.”
Our Mission is to provide our members with five-star service, support and solutions to simplify their financial lives. Where Members Matter Most.
Eglin Federal Credit Union announces temporary branch closures due to Hurricane Isaias
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 8, 2026) – Eglin Federal Credit Union is closely monitoring Hurricane Isaias and its potential impact on the communities it serves. To prioritize the safety of members and employees, all Eglin FCU branch locations will close at 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8, and remain closed Friday, Oct. 9.
At this time, the Credit Union anticipates resuming normal business hours on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, following the Columbus Day holiday.
Eglin Federal Credit Union remains committed to supporting our members before, during and after the storm. You can continue to access many of our services remotely, including:
Online Banking and the Eglin FCU Mobile App
Surcharge-free ATMs through the CO-OP and Allpoint networks
CO-OP Shared Branch locations, with more than 5,500 locations nationwide
Members can find a surcharge-free ATM or Shared Branch location by visiting eglinfcu.org/locations.
Following a severe weather event, Eglin FCU encourages individuals to take steps to protect their finances and personal information:
Save receipts and records. Keep documentation for hotel stays, meals, fuel, repairs and other emergency expenses.
Document damage before cleanup. When it is safe to do so, take photos or videos of damaged property before beginning repairs or cleanup efforts.
Prevent additional damage. Take reasonable steps to protect property from further damage, such as covering broken windows or moving valuables away from standing water.
Stay alert for scams. Fraud often increases following major storms. Be cautious of contractors demanding large upfront payments, fraudulent charities requesting donations, and emails, text messages or phone calls claiming to represent FEMA, insurance companies or financial institutions.
Individuals should never share personal or banking information unless they have independently verified the source.
For additional hurricane preparedness resources and recovery information, visit eglinfcu.org/disaster.
Eglin FCU will continue monitoring conditions and will provide updates through its website, Mobile App and social media channels as information becomes available.
