17 Southeastern Credit Union Professionals Named Finalists for 2024 Luminaries Awards

CU Times recently announced the 2024 Luminaries Awards finalists, highlighting credit union professionals who exemplify the “people helping people” philosophy while advancing their organizations through growth, community engagement, and innovative technology. This year’s awards saw a record number of submissions, with finalists recognized across 16 categories dedicated to credit union excellence.

Among the finalists, 17 professionals from credit unions in Alabama, Florida, and Georgia have been honored for their outstanding contributions to the industry. These individuals represent the very best of the credit union movement, demonstrating leadership, dedication, and a commitment to enhancing member services.

The finalists include the following:

Community Impact – Credit Unions ($1B-$4B)

• Addition Financial Credit Union in Lake Mary, Florida
• Family Savings Credit Union in Rainbow City, Alabama
• USF Federal Credit Union in Temple Terrace, Florida

Community Impact – Credit Unions ($4B & higher)

• FAIRWINDS Credit Union in Orlando, Florida
• Delta Community Credit Union in Atlanta, Georgia
• VyStar Credit Union in Jacksonville, Florida
• Suncoast Credit Union in Tampa, Florida

Community Impact – Individuals ($1B & under)

• Donald Carden Coosa, Pines Federal Credit Union in Childersburg, Alabama

Community Impact – Individuals ($1B-$4B)

• Cristina Lehman, Addition Financial Credit Union in Lake Mary, Florida

Community Impact – Individuals ($4B & higher)

• Elisha Gonzalez, FAIRWINDS Credit Union in Orlando, Florida

Credit Union Executive Leadership – CEO ($1B & under)

• Donald Carden, Coosa Pines Federal Credit Union in Childersburg, Alabama

Credit Union Executive Leadership – CEO ($4B & higher)

• Hank Halter, Delta Community Credit Union in Atlanta, Georgia
• Larry Tobin, FAIRWINDS Credit Union in Orlando, Florida

Credit Union Executive Leadership – C-Suite (all asset sizes)

• Chad Meadows, VyStar Credit Union in Jacksonville, Florida

Credit Union Rising Star Individuals ($1B-$4B)

• Brandon Thompson, USF Federal Credit Union in Tampa, Florida
• Amber Herman, All In Credit Union in Mobile, Alabama

Credit Union Rising Star Individuals ($4B & higher)

• Matt Brockelman, VyStar Credit Union in Jacksonville, Florida

The winners will be announced at the CU Times Luminaries Awards Gala, taking place on November 7, at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort in Orlando, Florida.