Read time: 30 secs
A Credit Union Young Professional is an employee under the age of 40. But CUYPs are so much more. Meet the movement’s up-and-comers from the under-40 crowd. This month: Jared Patton and Erika Gonzalez.
With 17 years in the credit union industry, Jared Patton, virtual services operations manager at Rave Financial Credit Union in Beaumont, Texas, has developed a passion for the community-oriented environment that credit unions foster. He values the collaborative
and innovative culture, which he credits for his personal and professional growth.
Patton’s heart lies with the Rainbow Room of Beaumont, a nonprofit that supports children and teens who have experienced abuse or neglect. As someone
licensed through adoption and foster care programs, he deeply appreciates the organization’s commitment to making a difference.
Outside of work, Patton enjoys binge-watching “The Lake” on Prime Video and indulging in his favorite dessert, cheesecake. If given the chance, Patton would choose mind reading as his superpower to enhance understanding, improve communication, and resolve conflicts more effectively.
Erika Gonzalez, retail account specialist II at FirstLight Federal Credit Union in El Paso, has been dedicated to the credit union industry for over eight years. Her favorite aspect of her work is helping members meet their goals and finding solutions
to their financial needs. Inspired by her mother’s unwavering dedication to helping others, Gonzalez strives to make a positive impact in her community.
Gonzalez finds joy in DIY projects with her husband, with their most recent accomplishment being a newly built pergola in their backyard. She also loves traveling, with her trip to Niagara Falls standing out as a favorite for its breathtaking beauty. If she could have a superpower, Gonzalez would choose the power to teleport so she could spend more time with her family,
who live far away. Her perfect treat? Strawberry cheesecake paired with a good read, like “The Power of a Lot of Little Things Done Well.”
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