YP Spotlights for June

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Stephanie Garces

Stephanie Garces is assistant branch manager at South Texas Federal Credit Union and has been part of the credit union industry for two years. Though she started her career in traditional banking, Garces says it was STFCU that found her—and she quickly discovered a sense of purpose and belonging in the credit union movement.

Since joining the team, she has held multiple roles, from part-time teller to lead teller to member service representative, before recently earning a promotion to assistant branch manager. Along the way, Garces has grown personally and professionally through projects, mentorship, and collaboration. She credits colleagues like Sydney Vega, Jessica Marin, and Gerardo Paz for encouraging her growth and believing in her potential.

One initiative Garces is especially proud of is STFCU’s Rising Star Minor account, which encourages children to learn financial habits early by making independent deposits and using transaction registers. The program aligns with her passion for youth education and community outreach—something she continues to support through United Way of South Texas, back-to-school drives, and other local events.

Her advice to peers? “Don’t settle—keep going,” she said. Remember, you are in control of how far you go.  Stay focused, stay driven, and believe in the power of your own journey.”

Emma Kennedy

Emma Kennedy has been in the credit union industry for six years and currently works as a commercial loan processor at Texoma Community Credit Union. She began her financial career in New Mexico at a bank but quickly found a better fit in the credit union world, where community involvement and personalized service take center stage.

Kennedy enjoys being part of the “community change movement” at Texoma CCU, where team members are encouraged to be present and active—not just sign a check, but show up. She’s proud of her connections in the real estate industry, which have helped generate new business for her credit union.

Her professional journey hasn’t been without challenges. For about a year, Kennedy was the sole processor supporting two loan officers. Despite the pressure, she led her department through a successful audit and proved she could thrive under stress.

In addition to her role, Kennedy serves on the Wichita Falls ISD advisory board and mentors younger employees at her credit union. She encourages them to see the industry as a long-term career path with room for growth and innovation. “Being young, it’s tempting to follow the trends,” she says. “But sometimes the opportunity you’re looking for is already right in front of you.”

If she could offer any advice to other YPs, it would be to “Do it!” Even if it’s not a popular option, Kennedy hopes that other young professionals can create a pathway for themselves.

Kennedy hopes to transition into a commercial loan analyst role soon, with her sights set on becoming a loan officer in the years ahead.

These young professionals are making a difference in their credit unions and communities. Stay tuned for more YP Spotlights next month!