ORLANDO --- Three credit unions, including one that was in conservatorship in 2015, received “credit union of the year” awards Thursday during the annual business meeting of the League of Southeastern Credit Union’s Southeast Credit Union Conference and Expo.

Winning credit union of the year in the under $100 million asset group was the $64.4 million Tallahassee Memorial Health Care Federal Credit Union.

In addition to substantial growth in assets and members, its loan portfolio increased by nearly 10% in 2016, which was followed by a 2015 banner year when loan growth soared by 22%.

Led by President/CEO Timothy Cook, TMH also employs a full-time financial literacy officer that provides members with financial counseling programs. The credit union also gives back to the community through health care events, donation programs and scholarships to members.

The $137 million Keys Federal Credit Union in Key West, which broke out of conservatorship in 2015, was named credit union of the year in the $100 million to $500 million asset category.

Steadily growing in financial strength, assets and membership, the credit union, led by President/CEO Scott Duszynski, also opened a new branch. Keys FCU supported more than 50 local organizations last year, including the Chamber of Commerce, Florida Keys Community College job fairs and the Blue Angels.

Winning the credit union of the year award in the category of more than $500 million in assets was the $1.4 billion America’s First Federal Credit Union in Birmingham, Ala.

Led by President/CEO Bill Connor, America’s First FCU increased its membership by more than 10% last year and grew its loan portfolio by nearly 10%.

The credit union’s spirit made a lasting impact throughout the Yellowhammer State with its employees participating in more than 600 community events, resulting in more than 700 hours of service at local organizations. In addition to donating hundreds of thousands of dollars to local charities and non-profit groups, America’s First CU also awards $5,000 scholarships every year to three local students.

Instant Insights /

Southeast Conference Names 'Credit Unions of the Year'

Related Stories

Recommended For You