Kathy L. Chartier, president/CEO of Members Credit Union in Stamford, Conn., died May 22. She was 75.
Chartier spent almost four decades leading MCU and was a 2026 Herb Wegner Memorial Award winner, an honor the credit union described as the "highest recognition in the credit union movement."
"It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Kathy L. Chartier, president/CEO of Members Credit Union," the credit union said in a statement announcing her death. "Kathy was a respected leader, mentor and advocate for the credit union philosophy of 'people helping people.' Her compassion, humility and dedication to serving others touched countless lives throughout our community and the broader credit union movement."
MCU said Chartier led with "heart, integrity and an unwavering commitment" to members and the communities the credit union serves, adding that her impact on the organization would be lasting and deeply meaningful.
According to her obituary, Chartier's leadership at MCU included a commitment to hiring bilingual employees. She was inducted into the Credit Union Hall of Fame, and her work is recognized in exhibits at the Credit Union Museum in Manchester, N.H. The obituary also described her efforts to support credit union development beyond the United States, including helping establish a credit union for the Nairobi Police Department during a trip to Africa.
Earlier this year, MCU celebrated Chartier's selection as a 2026 Herb Wegner Memorial Award winner. In a social media post announcing the honor, the credit union said her vision and dedication had guided the organization for nearly four decades while remaining true to the philosophy of "People Helping People."
Outside of her professional accomplishments, Chartier was active in her church and community. A member of Danbury First Congregational Church, she taught Sunday school and served as a den mother for her sons' Cub Scout pack.
Travel was one of her passions, and she visited all seven continents during her lifetime.
MCU said it is coordinating continuity efforts and will continue operating normally while honoring Chartier's service.
Chartier is survived by her husband of more than 55 years, Russell Chartier; her sons, Russell and Jason; and their families.
Joyce Moed can be reached at joyce.moed@arc-network.com.
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