Young Professional Spotlights

Adriana Crisp

Members First Credit Union
Vice President, Chief Operations Officer
Corpus Christi, Texas

How long have you been in the credit union industry? 
11 years 

What is your favorite thing about working in the credit union? 
Our “people helping people” philosophy. Getting to witness the vital role we play in our members’ financial journey is what I love most.  

Words of wisdom to fellow YPs? 
I encourage fellow YPs to take the initiative when it comes to their professional growth. There may not always be a clear path of succession, but there is always room to increase your knowledge and skills within your current position.  

Who is your role model and why? 
Our executive team comprises individuals who I regard as role models. They each have strengths that I admire and inspire me to think critically, lead with confidence, and operate with integrity.  

What keeps you motivated daily? 
My kids and the future. I’m excited not only for the future of my organization but the direction and innovation of the industry.  

Are you an introvert or an extrovert? 
I like to think I’m a nice blend of both.  

Evelin Hernandez

CoastLife Credit Union
Chief Financial Officer
Corpus Christi, Texas

How long have you been in the credit union industry?
I’ve been in the credit union industry for over 10 years. I started as a part-time teller through an internship program.

What is your favorite thing about working in the credit union?
My favorite thing about working at our credit union is the opportunities we are granted to give back to our community and to continue learning and growing professionally. We have a great YP group who always has fun opportunities set up for us to network and give back.

Who is your role model and why?
My mother is my biggest role model. She instilled in me the importance of good work ethic and showed me how to manage my money at a very early age.

What is the most influential book you’ve read?
Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki.

What is one thing that surprises most people about you?
I enjoy making homes beautiful through house flipping. I am not afraid to get my hands dirty and do manual labor.

Words of wisdom to fellow YPs?
Do what you are afraid to do and get out of your comfort zone. If you’re afraid to do something that you know will be good for you in the long run, “do it scared,” as Kathryn Childers said.

Kelcy L. Rapier-Landin

CoastLife Credit Union
Human Resources Assistant
Corpus Christi, Texas

How long have you been in the credit union industry?
My first job was at a credit union, and I’ve been in the credit union industry for over 11 years.  

What is your favorite thing about working in the credit union?
The Young Professionals group is my favorite thing about working at our credit union. Being a YP gives us opportunities to learn and grow professionally and personally, while being able to give back to our community.  

What advice would you give your younger self?
It would have to be the same advice I try to give my children now, which is always go for it. Trying something new can be scary, but it will help you grow in one way or another.

Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
I am an introverted “people pleaser,” but being a YPA is helping me find that happy balance between an introvert and extrovert. 

What keeps you motivated daily?
My three children and husband not only motivate me but inspire me every day.

Words of wisdom to fellow YPs?
Always stay teachable with an open mind.