July YP Spotlights
The Leaguer regularly features Young Professional Spotlights to help you get to know these up-and-comers. This month, meet Ashley Cook, Brittany Murry, and Kylah Nelson.
Ashley Cook, Cotton Belt Federal Credit Union
Ashley Cook, branch manager and loan processor at Cotton Belt Federal Credit Union in Pine Bluff, Ark., has worked in the credit union industry for three years. Her favorite part of the job is helping members and making a positive impact on the community while taking on the challenge of solving new problems each day.
Cook enjoys traveling to Florida with her family, whether they are visiting the beach or heading to Orlando for a trip to Disney World. For Cook, the destination matters less than having the opportunity to make memories with the people she loves.
She also supports the Cheer Abilities team at her daughter’s all-star gym by volunteering during practices and competitions. Cook finds her involvement with the Unstoppable team especially rewarding because she can help athletes grow, build confidence, and develop meaningful friendships with the buddies who support their success. When it is time to unwind, she enjoys listening to true crime podcasts.
Brittany Murry, Cotton Belt Federal Credit Union
Brittany Murry, collections manager at Cotton Belt Federal Credit Union in Pine Bluff, has worked in financial services since 2010 and joined the credit union in 2016. She values helping members meet their financial needs while building lasting relationships.
Murry names Eranesha Cochran as her role model because she is always working on something positive—a quality Murry recognizes and values in herself. Given the opportunity to speak with any public figure, Murry would choose Tyler Perry so they could share ideas about community service events.
Murry supports the King Jay Foundation, which she founded after losing her 17-year-old brother to gun violence. The nonprofit provides scholarships to high school students who need assistance beginning their college journeys.
Murry is currently reading the Bible to gain a better understanding of today’s world. She enjoys rewatching “White Chicks,” binge-watching “Ride or Die” and “All the Queen’s Men,” and visiting Houston. Her favorite desserts are chocolate brownies and ice cream.
One thing that surprises people about Murry is her age, particularly because of her hair color. If she could have any superpower, she would choose the ability to heal every child suffering from a life-threatening illness, giving them more time to grow with their families and live healthy lives.
Kylah Nelson, Baptist Health Federal Credit Union
Kylah Nelson, vice president of lending at Baptist Health Federal Credit Union in Little Rock, has more than 12 years of credit union industry experience. Her favorite part of the work is helping members achieve their financial goals while contributing to an organization genuinely driven to meet their financial needs.
She supports Habitat for Humanity after having the opportunity to volunteer with the organization. Nelson describes the experience of working alongside dedicated volunteers while helping families build places to call home as incredible.
Nelson says people are often surprised to learn she is closer to 40 than 30. Outside of work, she enjoys watching Selena, rewatching The Rookie, and indulging in cheesecake.
These young professionals are making a difference in their credit unions and communities. Stay tuned for more YP Spotlights next month.
