SRCUS Celebrates 42 Graduates of Southeast Management School Program

The Southeastern Regional Credit Union School (SRCUS) is pleased to announce that 42 distinguished credit union executives graduated on June 21, from Southeast Management School after successful completion of the three-year program on the campus of the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia.

For over 50 years, Southeast Management School has trained graduates to tackle leadership challenges in the credit union industry. The curriculum enhances operational, managerial, and leadership skills through advanced academic instruction. Students apply this knowledge to strategic projects for their credit unions, addressing industry issues. They also develop debate and presentation skills, and a deep understanding of the credit union philosophy to contribute to their credit unions’ success.

During the ceremony, which streamed live on Facebook, graduates heard reflections and words of inspiration respectively from 2^nd and 3^rd year class leaders, Marlena Gannon-Frament of Marine Federal Credit Union and Brad Ballentine of SAFE Federal Credit Union, as well as SRCUS Academic Advisor Dr. Craig Piercy.

“The networks we have built [are] invaluable and will serve as a strong foundation as we continue our careers in the credit union movement,” shared Gannon-Frament. “As we move forward, let’s carry the lessons learned … during our time at SRCUS. Let us be advocates for our members, champions of ethical practices, and pioneers of financial innovations.”

Ballentine echoed Gannon-Frament’s sentiments while also thanking SRCUS staff for all they do “to make sure this school remains relevant in our ever-changing industry.”

“Although I’m not sad about graduating, it is a little weird knowing we won’t be here together next year,” said Ballentine. “However, we will continue to help each other … take back what we learned to improve our credit unions to better serve our members … keep celebrating each other’s successes … and keep our eyes open for the next generation of leaders so we can give them the same opportunities that were afforded to us.”

In addition to completing the rigorous curriculum, testing to earn credits through the American Council on Education (ACE) and the Certified Credit Union Executive (CCUE) designation was introduced this year. First-year students completed testing on year one curriculum while second-year students and 2024 graduates have the option to take a cumulative test this summer. ACE recognizes nine continuing education credits upon completion of SRCUS.

Piercy spoke to the momentous success of all the students during the ceremony, especially the Class of 2024, saying, “You’ve worked tirelessly … taken your courses seriously … and demonstrated an unparalleled spirit of cooperation and collaboration. “Your dedication and commitment have not only earned you these diplomas but have also prepared you to face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

Graduation from Southeast Management School is recognized throughout the credit union industry as a prestigious mark of achievement. Upon successful completion of the program, students receive a graduation diploma issued in collaboration with the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education.

Credit union graduates a part of the League of Southeastern Credit Unions include:

• Cordell Donovan, Associated Credit Union in Norcross, Georgia
• Chris Foy, Peach State Federal Credit Union in Lawrenceville Georgia
• Mike Gibson, Credit Union of Georgia in Woodstock, Georgia
• Johanna Gillispie, Go Energy Credit Union in Tucker, Georgia
• Julie Irvin, Georgia’s Own Credit Union in Atlanta, Georgia
• Wendy James, WinSouth Credit Union in Gadsden, Alabama
• Brad Kindsfather, First Choice Credit Union in West Palm Beach, Florida
• Kevin Lucas, Georgia’s Own Credit Union in Atlanta, Georgia
• Mindy Maghupoy, The Infirmary Federal Credit Union in Mobile, Alabama
• Nicole Maragh, Associated Credit Union in Norcross, Georgia
• Rebecca Morris, LGE Community Credit Union in Marietta, Georgia
• Tabitha Scarberry, New Horizons Credit Union in Mobile, Alabama
• John Simpson, Peach State Federal Credit Union in Lawrenceville, Georgia
• Tiffany Washington, Alabama Credit Union in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
• Frances Collene Wester, Alabama Teachers Credit Union in Gadsden, Alabama

For more information on Southeast Management School, visit www.srcus.org/management.