Celebrating Anniversaries and Brighter Futures

Cornerstone League recognizes member credit unions for their growth and community endeavors to exemplify the “people helping people” philosophy.

Education CU Celebrates 90 Years of Service in the Texas Panhandle

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Amarillo, Texas-based Education Credit Union has announced the celebration of its 90th anniversary, marking nine decades of enriching lives and empowering financial well-being in the Texas Panhandle. Today, the credit union has $475 million in assets and 40,000 members.

To celebrate this significant milestone, ECU is launching several initiatives in January 2025 that reflect its commitment to its members and the community.

In-Branch Birthday Parties
On Jan. 15, ECU will host in-branch birthday celebrations at its 11 locations. Members and the community are invited to join the festivities and pick up exclusive 90th anniversary keepsakes (while supplies last).

Cash Drawing for Financial Coaching Participants
Throughout January, members and non-members alike have a chance to win a cash prize by signing up and attending at least one free financial coaching session. Financial coaching is the cornerstone of ECU’s mission to provide tools for financial success, and this initiative highlights the importance of taking steps toward financial empowerment.

90 Days, 900 Ways to Serve
Through the “90 Days, 900 Ways to Serve” initiative, ECU team members will collectively volunteer 900 hours in the first quarter of 2025. These hours will be dedicated to various nonprofits and community service projects across the Texas Panhandle, reflecting its commitment to building a stronger community through service.

“For 90 years, Education Credit Union has been rooted in the core value of People First, and Impact Always,” said Marcus Smith, president/CEO of Education Credit Union. “As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we look forward to honoring our legacy while continuing ‘To Love Our People with Smarter Banking’ through financial empowerment and community service initiatives.”

TDECU Celebrates 70th Anniversary

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TDECU is celebrating its 70th anniversary. Founded on Jan. 3, 1955, in Lake Jackson by a group of Dow employees, TDECU began with a simple act of kindness—a co-worker needed a loan to buy a refrigerator, and his colleagues pooled their resources to help him. This spirit of community and support has been the foundation of TDECU's mission ever since.

Over the past seven decades, the not-for-profit financial institution has grown significantly, now serving nearly 380,000 members with 35 member centers across Texas.

"For the past 70 years, our members have been at the heart of every one of our decisions, so this anniversary isn't just about celebrating TDECU; it's about recognizing everyone who helped us get to where we are now,” said TDECU President/CEO Isaac Johnson. “This year is going to be one of the most transformative in our great history, and I am honored to lead TDECU as we celebrate this milestone."

Jason Schneider, TDECU’s Chief Finance Officer, says the credit union has always been a part of his life.

“My grandfather worked as an operator with Dow for years and was one of TDECU’s earliest members,” said Schneider. “TDECU has been like home, even before I joined while studying at the University of Houston. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities this credit union has provided, both personally and professionally. As we celebrate 70 years of service, I’m proud to be part of a legacy that continues to grow stronger with each passing year.”

Texas Trust Offers Greenlight to Help Kids and Teens Build Bright Financial Futures

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Arlington, Texas-based Texas Trust Credit Union now offers the Greenlight debit card and money app to help the next generation of its members build brighter financial futures.

The Greenlight debit card and app gives children hands-on money management experience, teaching them how to earn, save, give, and spend wisely—all with parental supervision. Parents can use the app to send money instantly, assign and manage chores, automate allowance payments, set flexible spending controls, establish savings goals, and get real-time notifications of all transactions. All of the features teach their children about smart money management.

“With Greenlight, we are equipping our members with a tool to help improve financial education among the younger generation,” said Heidi Hardy, vice president of public relations, Texas Trust Credit Union. “The Greenlight app is part of our broader initiative to improve financial management skills and financial well-being among our entire membership.”

The Greenlight app includes access to the Greenlight Level Up game that teaches money concepts in an easy and fun format, letting kids earn rewards along the way.

Learn more.