Dave Stuart, Author at America First Newsroom

GTU: The Leonardo

America First Credit Union has a wonderful partnership with The Leonardo Museum in Salt Lake City. One of our great member deals and discounts, AFCU members can enjoy admission at no cost on the first Wednesday of every month. Simply show your America First Visa card at the ticket office for up to 10 free admissions! We invite you to learn more at americafirst.com/accounts/member deals and discounts.

The Leonardo is a unique facility providing visitors with exciting and unique exhibits exploring art, technology, science, engineering, flight, and a new interactive weather studio. It is a great way to explore the world. Whether a local or visiting from out of town, the Leonardo invites all to come in and explore their creativity through the many innovative and inspiring exhibits. The Leonardo also presents a variety of fun, kid-friendly activities, like an interactive design lab, art studio, and engaging hands-on science experiments.

Whether you are looking for an affordable date night or a fun outing with the whole family, America First has you covered. It’s just another way to say thanks for your membership!

Join Us for the 2023 Souper Bowl of Caring

Child poverty and hunger are reaching alarming levels in Utah where 1 in 9 kids face the pain and anxiety of hunger. When these children are focused on worrying about where their next meal will come from, it’s hard for them to focus on much else in school, which affects all our children.

America First Credit Union is proud to continue to partner with KUTV’s Souper Bowl of Caring. The Souper Bowl of Caring is a national organization that partners with local hunger relief charities to fight against childhood hunger. For just $5, you can ease the burden and allow children to focus on the things they should be focused on — learning and fun. The Souper Bowl of Caring is a great way to help.

The local chapter of this organization works with as many community food pantries as possible throughout the state of Utah. One hundred percent of the donations received will support a variety of programs focused on childhood hunger in the state of Utah, including those offered by schools, the Utah Food Bank, and other community charities and service providers across the state.

America First has also partnered with Souper Bowl of Caring in Las Vegas, and Reno. Wherever you live, or would like to support, many children’s lives will be blessed from your generous donations.

As part of our partnership, we help collect monetary donations both online, over the phone and at our branches until Saturday, February 12. There are multiple ways to make your contribution:

Credit card – Click here and fill out our secure online form
In person – Make a deposit at a branch to account number 5504816 (last name: Donate)
Tune in and donate! Tune in to KUTV on Wednesday, February 1st from 6 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. and call 1-877-908-0680 to donate over the phone.

To learn more about this wonderful organization and their efforts, visit souperbowl.org.

America First Credit Union Partners with University of Arizona to Sponsor Athletics Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – September 23, 2022 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) has inked a multi-year sponsorship agreement with Arizona Athletics and its multimedia rightsholder, Arizona Wildcat Sports Properties. This sponsorship is part of AFCU’s commitment to ingrain itself in the communities it serves by supporting sporting events, arts & entertainment, and various community affairs.

The partnership includes sponsorship of U of A’s football games, both men’s and women’s basketball games, and a collaboration with women’s basketball head coach Adia Barnes. The partnership will also incorporate a “Touchdown for the Hometown” feature to recognize a local charitable organization that has given back to the community.

Together the partners are working on a collaborative Arizona Athletics-branded Visa® Credit card. Once released, AFCU credit union members can proudly select the U of A marks to display on their Visa® credit card.

“I’m honored and excited to partner with America First Credit Union,” said Adia Barnes, Head Coach of Arizona Women’s Basketball. “I certainly understand the importance of recruiting and developing talented people, rallying your team around a shared vision, and doing what you do with passion. AFCU has built their reputation by adhering to those same principles. We are thrilled to welcome them to the Tucson community and our family of Wildcat Corporate Partners.”

“America First Credit Union loves to support our area’s colleges and universities, particularly when that support goes toward teaching young people about drive, determination, and goodwill,” said Tammy Gallegos, chief marketing and strategic engagement officer at AFCU. “Our sponsorship of Arizona Athletics affirms our commitment to our communities and the stellar athletic leadership at U of A.”

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION
Proudly celebrating 83 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 121 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.2 million members.

ABOUT LIVE NATION
Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Sponsorship. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Robert Benson
R&R Partners
702.318.4249
robert.benson@rrpartners.com

America First Credit Union Presents Concert Series at Ak-Chin Pavilion in Phoenix

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The America First Credit Union Concert Series is yet another benefit for AFCU members

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – September 21, 2022 – America First Credit Union is excited to announce the America First Credit Union Concert Series at Ak-Chin Pavilion in Phoenix. The famous 20,000-capacity amphitheater hosts the hottest acts all throughout the summer and is a fan-favorite place to experience a diverse lineup of performers. In partnership with Live Nation, the concert series brings opportunity for America First members to experience the vast array of arts and entertainment in the Valley.

“At AFCU, we want to be good stewards in the communities we serve. We want to support the things that bring neighbors together and make their lives full and enriched,” says Tammy Gallegos, chief marketing and strategic engagement officer for America First Credit Union. “Our sponsorship of live music at Arizona’s Ak-Chin Pavilion is just one of many ways we strive to enrich the daily experiences of our members and neighbors.”

“I love this concert series because it’s diverse and has range,” said Andy Peikon, Live Nation’s SVP and Head of Venue Sales. “From Alice in Chains to Wu-Tang Clan, there is something for everyone. People come to live music events for unforgettable experiences, and AFCU will be a part of those experiences for many fans across genres.”

In addition to presenting the concert series at Ak-Chin Pavilion, AFCU was able to award members and residents with free concerts tickets and lawn passes for the 2023 AFCU Concert Series through a local promotion to kick off this partnership. More information can be found by visiting Live Nation’s website.

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MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Robert Benson
R&R Partners
702.318.4249
robert.benson@rrpartners.com

AMERICA FIRST FIELD IS NEW NAME FOR REAL SALT LAKE’S HOME

14-Year-Old Sandy Venue Renamed for Original RSL Corporate Sponsor as 83-Year-Old America First Credit Union Expands Claret-and-Cobalt Partnership

SANDY, Utah (Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022) – Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake and inaugural Club partner America First Credit Union – one of RSL’s longest-serving partners – announce that the Club’s Sandy venue will now be known as AMERICA FIRST FIELD, effective immediately.

Real Salt Lake President John Kimball and America First President and CEO Thayne Shaffer were joined for today’s announcement by members of the Club’s loyal fan base; local, regional and national sports figures and business dignitaries, including Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber; RSL Season Ticket holders; and America First Credit Union members.

“Since our inaugural game back in 2005, America First Credit Union has supported Real Salt Lake’s connection with this community, offering our amazing fans numerous in-stadium, grassroots and digital initiatives,” said Real Salt Lake President John Kimball. “This partnership has grown immensely over our 18 seasons, and today’s unveiling of the AMERICA FIRST FIELD signage and nomenclature propels the partnership to an entirely new level. Both RSL and America First Credit Union share many tenets, including an ambitious vision of, commitment to, and innovation for our collective community. The depth, breadth and term of this naming rights deal for AMERICA FIRST FIELD is exemplary of that partnership, and we look forward to further deepening our jointly held roots across not only the great state of Utah but throughout the Intermountain West.”

Since opening the Sandy venue on historic State Street in October 2008, Real Salt Lake has played 269 games, posting a record of 154 wins and 66 draws against just 49 losses, a home winning percentage of nearly 70% and an impressive 1.96 points per game. Two finals have been held at what is now AMERICA FIRST FIELD — the second leg of the 2010-11 CONCACAF Champions League Final as well as the 2013 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Final. Nearly 50 clubs and national teams from more than a dozen countries have competed on the AMERICA FIRST FIELD pitch across numerous competitions, including Major League Soccer, National Women’s Soccer League, the MLS All-Star Game, Olympic qualifying, World Cup qualifying, Gold Cup, USL Championship, MLS NEXT Pro invitational and more.

Ancillary events that have taken place at what is now AMERICA FIRST FIELD include Utah High School Activities Association soccer competitions for both boys and girls, American football, rugby, lacrosse, monster truck, motocross and more.

America First Credit Union will continue to welcome guests into the home of Real Salt Lake with signage on the East Side / State Street Plaza, via 9400 South and at the “Spanish Steps” entry point, among others. Additionally, a co-branded America First / RSL debit card and credit card will provide cardholders with exclusive benefits, including discounted tickets, concessions, merchandise and special access to events. Whether buying RSL game tickets, gear at the RSL Team Store, or favorite game-time food and beverages, the new card will be a fast and secure way to make payments at AMERICA FIRST FIELD.

“We’re elated to expand our relationship with Real Salt Lake and Major League Soccer by having our name on this elite sports and entertainment venue, and by offering the exclusive RSL-branded credit card and debit card,” said Thayne Shaffer, America First President and CEO. “This partnership will provide value to our members and help us continue to invest in our community and in organizations that support individuals, families, and businesses as they work toward their personal and financial goals.”

As part of its commitment to its 1.2 million members and the communities it serves, America First partners with numerous non-profit organizations and charitable foundations throughout Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona and New Mexico.

America First Credit Union, which has been affiliated with Real Salt Lake since 2005, will enjoy an expanded relationship with the Club, including digital and traditional branding at AMERICA FIRST FIELD, activations during RSL games, affiliations with the MLS NEXT Pro Real Monarchs in Herriman and other sporting events. The club’s ardent fan base will continue to be known collectively as “The Riot,” providing the passionate heartbeat emanating from the South End each game. The two organizations will also continue to work together on various community outreach initiatives throughout the state of Utah. Additionally, America First Credit Union will continue to be a presenting sponsor of various RSL and Real Monarchs digital properties and to sponsor the RSL youth camps & clinics. America First Credit Union will also team up with RSL on a promotion with small businesses and award a single-season marketing and advertising sponsorship opportunity at the AMERICA FIRST FIELD.

Downloadable AMERICA FIRST FIELD assets: Here

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 83 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country. As Utah’s largest credit union, it has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 121 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.2 million members.

ABOUT REAL SALT LAKE

During the first week of January 2022, the RSL compendium of properties was acquired by global sports entrepreneur David Blitzer – who boasts interests in the Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), the New Jersey Devils (NHL), and six European soccer entities, including Crystal Palace (England), FC Augsburg (Germany), Estoril (Portugal), ADO Den Haag (Netherlands), Alcorcón (Spain) and SK Beveren (Belgium). The Blitzer group partners with Utah-based Smith Entertainment Group, led by Ryan Smith, which owns the Utah Jazz (NBA).

Real Salt Lake kicked off its 18^th Major League Soccer season this Spring, its first full season under Head Coach Pablo Mastroeni, who led the Utah side for the final 100 days last year, advancing to the 2021 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs for the 11^th time in the last 14 years.

The club’s MLS Cup 2009 victory marked the state of Utah’s only major professional championship in nearly 40 years, the title preceding an historic run to the 2010/11 CONCACAF Champions League Final. Buoyed by a passionate base boasting several thousand season ticket holders, RSL has enjoyed a prominent home-field advantage – posting a dominant 154-49-66 (Win-Loss-Draw) record across all competitions at home (1.96 points per game for a 0.695 win pct.) – since building its permanent Rio Tinto Stadium home in Sandy 13 years ago.

In 2015, the club expanded its development pyramid with the addition of Real Monarchs SLC, one of several MLS-operated clubs playing in the USL Championship, the United States’ Division II setup. The Monarchs boast a pair of titles in its brief history, as the 2017 USL regular-season champions, later winning the USL Final in 2019. For the 2022 season and beyond, Real Monarchs will compete in the newly launched “MLS NEXT Pro” as part of a joint United States and Canada endeavor to complete the professional player pathway by connecting youth academies in MLS NEXT to first teams in Major League Soccer.

The entire RSL development pipeline, which includes the RSL Academy’s U-15 and U-17 teams, calls the expansive Zions Bank Training Center in Herriman, Utah their daily training home. With five world-class grass fields, two indoor turf fields, a residential dormitory, the STEM-based RSL Academy High School and the 5,000-seat Zions Bank Stadium located on a 42-acre campus, Utah’s sporting future is bright.

The RSL Community Foundation was established in 2016, created with the goals of being active in the community year-round, utilizing the popularity and reach of RSL and the Real Monarchs in promoting health and wellness in children throughout the region, engaging supporters of soccer to raise funds and volunteer time for various local initiatives.

For more information on Real Salt Lake, visit www.RSL.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com

America First Credit Union Awards $500,000 Grant to Utah Valley University’s Gary R Herbert Institute for Public Policy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Funding will Support the America First Credit Union Undergraduate Fellowship Program

SALT LAKE CITY – August 22, 2022 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) announced a $500,000 endowment to Utah Valley University (UVU) for the university’s Gary R Herbert Institute for Public Policy. The gift will support the school’s program for Government and High-Impact Internships based in Washington, DC.

UVU says the number one barrier for students applying for internships in DC is the personal cost. Most families cannot afford the significant expenses associated with this type of program, particularly for those living in underserved populations. In addition to their tuition, UVU students participating in the program have additional expenses such as housing and a higher cost of living. The Utah federal delegation pays interns $2,000 a month for more-than-full-time work, while some other internships are unpaid. The need for financial support for the program is evident.

The funding will support the America First Credit Union Undergraduate Fellowship Program. AFCU’s $500,000 gift will allow UVU to send its best and brightest students to Washington, DC, to participate in the life-changing experience.

“Not long ago, Governor Herbert met with our team about the importance of educating tomorrow’s leaders,” said Nicole Cypers, vice president of Governmental Affairs at AFCU. “We talked about the importance of internships in government and how gaining experience in Washington DC can be a life-changing experience for students. We know this is an expensive opportunity that not everyone can afford. With this in mind, America First Credit Union is thrilled to announce a $500,000 endowment to support UVU’s Herbert Institute interns serving in federal offices on Capitol Hill in Washington DC.”

“With the generous funding from America First Credit Union, interns from the Herbert Institute will gain valuable experience in history and politics as they live and work in our nation’s capital,” said UVU President Dr. Astrid S. Tuminez. “At UVU, we believe that engaged learning is the best way to prepare students for success in work and life. Getting an internship in Washington D.C. without incurring financial burdens is an incredible opportunity for our students. I believe they will be inspired to consider a life and career in public service.”

On average, UVU works to place approximately 70 students per year in government and high-impact internships. 40 student interns work with public policy leaders in Utah, while the remaining 30 spend a semester in Washington, DC. AFCU’s grant will allow the university to send an additional 15 interns each year to high-impact and government internships in DC. High-impact internships have a lasting influence on the lives of UVU students. Merging academic education with the practical experience of an internship currently results in a 10-percent increase in a student’s likelihood of remaining in school and continuing to graduation.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 83 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 121 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.2 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com

America First Credit Union and Las Vegas Raiders Announce Winner of the Second Annual Small Businesses Showcase

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Nevada-based RGD Construction receives a $100K sponsorship with Las Vegas Raiders

LAS VEGAS, NV – August 18, 2022 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) and its partner, the Las Vegas Raiders, announced today that RGD Construction, a Nevada-based residential and commercial construction company, is the grand-prize winner of its second annual Small Business Showcase Contest following the recent live finals event in the Shift4 Club at Allegiant Stadium. RGD Construction, based in southern Nevada, received a $100,000 single-season sponsorship package to promote the company’s mission to provide the very best commercial tenant improvements and home renovations. The sponsorship also includes signage inside Allegiant Stadium, radio advertisements, digital promotion on the Raiders’ website and mobile app, tickets to a home game and more.

This is the second year that AFCU and the Raiders have partnered to showcase local small businesses that are making a difference in the community. The showcase provides an incredible opportunity for a local, Nevada-based small business to win a season long corporate partnership with the Las Vegas Raiders for the 2022 season. This year four finalists presented to a panel of Raiders and America First Credit Union representatives for the chance to be recognized as the second winner of the Small Business Showcase and have their business featured throughout the season during Raiders games.

“Our community wouldn’t be the same without small businesses,” said Tammy Gallegos, chief marketing & strategic engagement officer for AFCU. “America First Credit Union is honored to provide the tools necessary to help small businesses succeed. We are grateful to be part of their story. Thank you to our partner, the Las Vegas Raiders, for sharing their platform with small businesses and congratulations to the winner and finalists.”

“We are excited to partner with America First Credit Union to support another small business this year,” said Christian Howard, vice president corporate partnerships for the Las Vegas Raiders. “The Small Business Showcase strengthens and shed light on how essential small businesses are to our local community. Congratulations to the winner and all other finalists.”

RGD Construction is a local, woman-owned and operated business, serving southern Nevada for more than 20 years. Coming from a long line of contractors, the company specializes in commercial tenant property improvements, as well as residential renovations. “We cannot thank America First and the Raiders enough. We are incredibly grateful to be named this year’s America First Credit Union and Las Vegas Raiders Small Business Showcase winner” said Dawn Barnes, owner of RGD Construction. “RGD Construction is excited to continue growing to give back to the community that made it possible to win this sponsorship today.”

The winner and finalists were invited to a special event to showcase their business. Finalists of the 2022 Small Business Showcase competition include: (listed in alphabetical order)

A Taste of Coffee (Southern Nevada)
CakedUpLV (Southern Nevada)
RGD Construction (Southern Nevada)
The Steamie Weenie (Southern Nevada)

Finalists were evaluated on how well they represent Nevada, how much they currently give back to the community, and how this opportunity will help them execute their business objectives successfully. The four finalists were picked by a panel of judges comprised of AFCU and Raiders representatives, as well as community and business leaders. The 2022 contest garnered more than 50 entries from small businesses across Nevada.

Editor’s Note: Interview opportunities with AFCU representatives are available.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 83 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 121 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.2 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com

America First Credit Union Opens New Branch in Silverado Ranch

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LAS VEGAS – August 8, 2022 – America First Credit Union has opened its newest branch in Nevada located in Silverado Ranch. This is the credit union’s 18th branch in Nevada and 121st branch across Utah, Nevada, Arizona and Idaho. On Friday, the credit union held a ribbon cutting to celebrate the branch’s grand opening. The branch is located at 9690 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89123.

America First’s new Silverado branch opens with six team members under the leadership of Ricky Ornelas as branch manager. Ornelas began his career with AFCU as a teller in 2010 and quickly became lead teller in 2013. Shortly after, he became an Assistant Branch Manager in 2015 and eventually promoted to Manager in 2017. He has worked at 4 other branch locations throughout the Las Vegas area and has extensive experience in all aspects of a financial institution.

“We’re excited to be expanding our footprint in Nevada to better serve the Las Vegas community,” said Ornelas. “This branch is perfectly located in Silverado Ranch to serve both the Silverado and Henderson communities. We’re excited to be able to serve our members here and make an impact within the community.”

In celebration of the opening, AFCU is offering a $100.00 match to every member who opens a new savings and checking account. This promotion will run until Aug. 13. In addition, members who sign up will be entered into a grand prize drawing which includes four Raiders preseason tickets and a signed jersey.

The credit union plans to hire several new employees. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit America First’s career page.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 82 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 121 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $16 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.2 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com

America First Credit Union Opens New Full-Service Branch in Sparks Nevada

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SPARKS, Nevada – June 14, 2022 – To satisfy an underserved area in Nevada’s fifth largest city, Sparks, America First Credit Union has opened its newest branch. This is the credit union’s 17th branch in Nevada and 120th branch across Utah, Arizona, New Mexico and Idaho. On Monday, the credit union held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the branch’s grand opening.

America First’s new Sparks branch opens with four team members under the leadership of Debbie Martin as branch manager. Martin is a seasoned leader with 25 years of experience in accounting, coaching and training, financial consulting and branch operations. She was a Branch Manager at PNC Bank in Clovis, California prior to joining America First Credit Union. Martin has extensive experience in all aspects of a financial institution, including service excellence, education on products and services, lending and relationship management.

“Since 2008, America First Credit Union is proud to call Nevada home and to strengthen our ties in the wonderful Reno-Sparks metropolitan community,” said Thayne Shaffer, president and CEO of America First Credit Union. “Sparks is rapidly growing, and our new site sets us up well for our next chapter of expansion.”

In celebration of the grand opening, new members who open a savings or checking account and deposit $25 may receive a match of up to $100.

The credit union is excited to hire several new employees. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit America First’s career page.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 83 years of serving members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 120 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.2 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com

America First Credit Union Expands Into New Mexico

Camille Thomas will serve as branch manager of the new Albuquerque America First Credit Union (left). Thomas cuts the ribbon for the Albuquerque branch opening. More photos can be found here.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico – March 14, 2022 – To satisfy an underserved area in Albuquerque, New Mexico’s largest city and its economic capital, America First Credit Union has opened its newest branch. This is the credit union’s first branch in New Mexico and 119th branch across Utah, Nevada, Arizona and Idaho. On Friday, the credit union held a ribbon cutting to celebrate the branch’s grand opening.

America First’s new Albuquerque branch opens with five team members under the leadership of Camille Thomas as branch manager. Thomas is a creative financial expert with 20 years of financial services leadership experience. She was a VP, branch manager at Kirtland Federal Credit Union in Albuquerque prior to joining America First Credit Union. Thomas has extensive experience in all aspects of a financial institution, including member service, lending and operations.

“America First Credit Union is proud to call New Mexico home and to strengthen our ties to the Southwest and this wonderful community,” said Thayne Shaffer, president and CEO of America First Credit Union. “Albuquerque is rapidly growing, and our new site sets us up well for our next chapter of expansion.”

In celebration of the grand opening, America First members who open a new savings or new checking account and deposit $25 during the first two weeks of opening will receive $100. There will also be a chance for members to win a $500 America First Visa card for members who visit the branch during that time.

The credit union plans to hire several new employees. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit America First’s career page.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 82 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 119 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $16 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.2 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Nicole Cypers
America First Credit Union
801.827.8655
ncypers@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com