YP Spotlights for October

The Leaguer regularly features Young Professional Spotlights to help you get to know these up-and-comers. This month, meet Justin Jones, Nichole Helm, and Kaysha Cohen.

Justin Jones, Texoma Community Credit Union

With 10 years in the credit union industry, Justin Jones, training and education specialist at Texoma Community Credit Union, says his favorite part of the job is helping members reach their goals. “Whether it’s creating a savings plan, building credit, or planning for a major purchase, I love being part of a team that puts people over profit,” he said.

Jones was recently selected as a Cornerstone Young Professional Advisor—an achievement he describes as a career highlight. “It’s been incredibly rewarding to represent and advocate for the next generation of leaders across our region,” he said. “Through mentorship and collaboration, I’ve had the chance to inspire engagement and make a meaningful impact beyond my day-to-day work.”

Committed to community service, Jones participates in local school Reality Fairs that teach students real-world budgeting and credit skills. He also volunteers with Hospice of Wichita Falls, supporting fundraisers and events that help families in need. His advice to peers: “Stay curious, stay involved, and never underestimate the power of showing up. Say yes to opportunities that stretch you.”

Nichole Helm, Communication Federal Credit Union

For Nichole Helm, vice president of mortgage at Communication Federal Credit Union, success is rooted in connection. “From members to coworkers to other credit union professionals, relationships have allowed me to grow in this career,” she said.

A 13-year industry veteran, Helm says being a Cornerstone Young Professional Advisor helped her find confidence in new challenges. “Leading an advocacy track at the YP Conference or lip-syncing on stage to raise money for the Foundation—these experiences pushed me outside my comfort zone,” she said. “Overcoming the nerves that come with public speaking showed me how much I could grow when I just said yes.”

Helm has spent the last decade in the mortgage space and now serves as co-chair of the ACUMA Young Professional Network, combining her passions for mortgage lending and young professional development. “This opportunity brings together my two favorite worlds in the credit union movement,” she said.

When she’s not working, Helm enjoys traveling, discovering new restaurants, and spending time at home with her husband and golden retriever puppy. Her advice to others: “Just do it scared. If you haven’t found your spot in the movement yet, keep exploring. Growth comes from getting uncomfortable.”

Kaysha Cohen, Neighborhood Credit Union

After 18 years in the industry, Kaysha Cohen, vice president of eCommerce at Neighborhood Credit Union, still finds joy in building member relationships. “Every conversation is a chance to understand their goals and help them achieve financial well-being,” she said.

Cohen holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business administration and leads several leadership and development initiatives within her credit union. She serves on the Leadership+ Committee, where she helps guide employees through an eight-month professional development program focused on self-awareness, leadership styles, and team growth.

As chair of Neighborhood’s Young Professionals advisory group, Cohen helps foster engagement through quarterly events and committees focused on community service, communications, and professional development. “The group gives young professionals the space to learn, collaborate, and grow in the movement,” she said.

Her advice for others entering the credit union industry: “Understand the why, stay curious, embrace change, own your growth, be coachable, and take the leap. Every experience—good or bad—teaches you something valuable.”

These young professionals exemplify how the next generation of leaders is driving growth, connection, and purpose across the credit union movement. Stay tuned for more YP Spotlights next month.