Volunteers Ensure Value is Delivered to the Members of America First Credit Union

By John B. Lund, President & CEO

On April 17, America First Credit Union held our 79^th Annual Meeting. It is a privilege to be associated with a member-owned cooperative that has endured and thrived for nearly eight decades by assisting families and businesses in achieving financial well-being.

Certainly, one reason for this longevity is our unique structure and leadership. We are fortunate to have a volunteer Board of Directors, comprised of individuals who serve without compensation to ensure that we deliver relevant products and services in a convenient, professional manner; that we help simplify your busy lives; and that we provide ways for you to keep more of your hard-earned money.

At this year’s meeting, Lyle B. Adams, Cathy Person, and John D. Spease were nominated and approved to serve three-year terms on our Board, joining Barney B. Chapman, Linda K. Carver, Gil A. Miller, Kenlon W. Reeve, Michael R. Roden and James G Wendler.

It was also an appropriate opportunity to honor and pay tribute to retiring board members Joy Jex and Ed Cline, who served America First for 39 and 41 years, respectively. Our organization is certainly indebted to their expertise and commitment.

We additionally owe a great deal of gratitude to the volunteers on the Loan Review and Supervisory Committees. The Loan Review Committee allows members the opportunity to request appeals of lending decisions. The committee and members then work together to find beneficial solutions.

The Supervisory Committee offers operational and regulatory oversight, joining senior management and our internal audit department staff to keep the credit union on strong financial footing, with sound policies and procedures.

In his meeting remarks, Chairman Wendler ably summarized our mission at America First: “No matter the area of endeavor, our core values guide how we operate. For this credit union, how we do business is as important as the business we do. We believe in putting the financial well-being of the members first. Whatever the means of access, we are here to serve you.â€

It was my pleasure to report that, by every measure, 2017 was an outstanding year for America First. Our member engagement and service scores are among the very best in the nation. Our federal regulator and outside audit firm provided positive feedback regarding our operation, strategy and financial strength. Money Magazine named America First the best financial institution in Utah. While we are considered a large and complex credit union, our people, systems and philosophy remain personal, approachable and accessible.

On behalf of our volunteers and staff, I express my sincere thanks for choosing America First. We are committed to seeking a lifelong relationship with you and your family.