Career moves and milestones

At Cornerstone League, we’re proud of our members’ professional advancements and milestones. We take pleasure in posting significant news. We also memorialize individuals who have contributed greatly to the credit union movement.

Cameron Newfarmer named 2023 Young Professional of Year

Texas Trust Credit Union’s Cameron Newfarmer has been chosen as the 2023 Young Professional of the Year by the Cornerstone League at its Young Professionals Conference last week in Allen, Texas. As a professional under the age of 40, Newfarmer has used his project management skills to orchestrate credit union projects and initiatives that have showcased his diligence, professionalism, passion, and leadership capabilities.

Newfarmer is highly involved in credit union programs, including serving as a Young Professional Advisor to help strengthen development and networking opportunities for younger credit union employees. He is also an avid mentor and teacher, earning the designation of Credit Union Development Educator, and he has been tapped by Cornerstone League to present and share at various workshops and its annual Leadership Academy. Newfarmer is a graduate of the Southwest CUNA Management School and recipient of the program’s Award of Excellence. He is also a board member of the school’s alumni association. 

“As a young professional, Cameron stands out and is someone I have always been able to rely on regardless of the project size and scope,” said Jose Pruneda, vice president of project management at Texas Trust Credit Union. “He’s been a member of my team for four years and is motivated and driven to learn and share and have a positive impact in the credit union movement.”

As a project manager at Texas Trust, Newfarmer plays an influential role in shaping the vision and mission of its Community Unity Team, overseeing employee-led community outreach activities. His work as chair of the Community Unity team paved the way for him to be named to the board of the Texas Trust Gives Foundation.

“Cameron has a gift for working with people and finding a path forward that everyone can get behind,” said Jim Minge, CEO of Texas Trust Credit Union. “Working with young professionals like Cameron assures me that the future of credit unions is very bright. We are proud that Cameron has received this award for what he has accomplished, and we are honored that he is part of the Texas Trust family.”

Meritrust SVP/CFO Randy Doerksen announces retirement

After decades in the financial industry, Meritrust Credit Union’s SVP/Chief Financial Officer Randy Doerksen is set to retire on June 2. Doerksen joined Meritrust in 2014 after serving as the CFO of Friends University for 26 years.

Since becoming CFO, Doerksen has managed accounting and finance duties, including asset-liability management, payroll and benefits, and facilities and construction.

"Meritrust is an incredible organization with a mission that focuses on bettering others, something that has always resonated with me," Doerksen said. "I have especially appreciated the ability to work side-by-side with colleagues who share a similar vision and serve beyond themselves.”

Doerksen's career at Meritrust leaves a lasting impact on the Meritrust leadership team, including President/ CEO James Nastars. He said of Doerksen, “His leadership has made Meritrust a stronger institution and a better place. He has been a tremendous servant leader, coach, and mentor to so many at Meritrust, and because of that, his impact on me personally and so many others will be felt for many years."

As June 2 approaches, Doerksen's responsibilities are being transitioned to Meritrust's new VP/CFO Jess Howard. Howard has 20 years of experience from previous finance and accounting roles. He joined Meritrust in 2016, originally serving as a financial analyst and special projects manager. In 2020, Howard was promoted to director of financial analytics.