YP Spotlights and the next virtual meetup
Young professionals in the credit union movement are typically go-getters, industry advocates, and aspiring or rising leaders who have earned (or would like to earn) the notice and respect of their higher-ups. Young professionals who are members of the Cornerstone YP Program are spotlighted throughout the year to help you get to know these up-and-comers.
Breana Kennedy
Breana Kennedy is a member service representative at Union Fidelity Federal Credit Union in Houston. She has been in the industry for two years. Her favorite thing about working for Union Fidelity is the opportunity to help members and her colleagues using her problem-solving skills and the grit to not give up on any task or issue.
Mentorship has been critical to so many in credit union land, and Kennedy shared that her CEO, Karen Montgomery, is her informal mentor. “Although I had not formally asked her in the past to be my mentor, she has done so much to take me under her wing and teach me all that she knows,” Kennedy said. “She also encourages me to learn more things about the credit union industry. This has given me courage and allowed me to grow as a leader, to teach and guide others the way she has done with me.”
Kennedy is taking a course through the Houston Chapter of Credit Unions called the Leadership Academy. “I have learned about the history of credit unions, shared branching, advocacy, interchange, and so much more in this class alone,” she said. “I have also received training on ALM, ACH, and the rules and guidelines that are to be followed. I would love to receive as much training as possible in everything, especially accounting. I believe in my heart that accounting is my passion. I have wanted to learn and practice it in my credit union.”
In March 2023, Kennedy attended a Cornerstone League advocacy event. “It was an amazing experience where we visited senators and representatives to share the most important bills that needed passing,” Kennedy said. “I learned about how important advocacy is and that even sharing the stories of our members’ experiences can positively move the decision-making process of our lawmakers.”
On a personal note, Kennedy said her role model is her CEO. “She is a rockstar and has shown me in many ways why credit unions are so valuable, whether explaining loans to a member, ways I can grow in the credit union industry, or encouraging me to participate in advocacy for the credit union.”
In the Leadership Academy, Kennedy is reading “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” “This book has helped me to grow over the months and taught me that a person can grow into an effective person by their actions, even if they didn’t start out as effective people,” she said. “It is definitely a must-read and a must-read-again!”
If she could give her 14-year-old self some life advice, Kennedy would tell her “to continue in my studies, and instead of taking most interest in science, go for math and accounting.”
Priscilla Rey
Priscilla Rey is the recruitment onboarding specialist at Raiz Federal Credit Union in El Paso. She’s been in the credit union industry for 13 years and loves the Raiz FCU culture and people.
Rey says she’s had a mentor in the past, which proved beneficial. “They guided me and helped me be successful in my role,” Rey said. “They also taught me things I never thought I could do, and seeing the end result was the best feeling ever.”
Training is important to Rey. She’s taken courses and training related to her role at the credit union. “The knowledge allowed me to see what I can improve,” she said. “I would love to take more human resources courses to expand my knowledge and prepare for the future.”
Young professionals are highly cognizant of the benefits of professional development opportunities. “I attended the Young Professionals Conference in Dallas, and it was a great experience,” Rey said. “I loved networking with others and hearing all the ideas being brought up. I loved that we had the chance to compare what’s working and what’s not and meet others in the same role. Just a great experience overall.”
On a personal note, Rey says the one thing that surprises most people about her is that she’s a twin. “People are always curious and interested in knowing if we are alike and if we can read each other’s minds. LOL.”
If she could give her 14-year-old self some life advice, “I would tell myself to be curious and unafraid to ask questions. The worst thing someone can say is no. Just keep trying and move forward.”
Workwise, Rey is proud to be the first person new hires see and speak with. “I get to immerse them in our culture and guide them with as much information as possible so they can be successful in their roles.”
If she won the lottery, Rey would buy her parents a new home, car, etc. “I would take care of them, so they don’t have to worry about a thing,” she said. “They are my rock and deserve everything and more. <3”
You’re invited to the next virtual YP Meetup on advocacy for Young Professionals
Join your peers in exploring advocacy and its importance to the credit union movement. Discuss current issues and learn how to get more involved and engaged. Your presenters are Rachel Pigman and Tyson Bohanan.
YP Virtual Meetup
Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2–3 p.m. CT
Register
Educational Investment
The YP Virtual Meetup is FREE to Cornerstone League Young Professionals.
Questions? Please email Sarah Bowman or call 800-442-5762, ext. 6423.