Celebrating International Credit Union Day: Meet Michelle

Every third Thursday of October since 1948, Piedmont Advantage Credit Union celebrates International Credit Union Day to showcase the credit union difference in the communities we’re privileged to serve. This year, we’re shining a spotlight on the rewards of working in the credit union industry. Four Piedmont Advantage teammates have agreed to participate.

So, today, let's embrace the spirit of International Credit Union Day by hearing from Bonnie and Perry in Consumer Lending, Sandi in Risk Management and Michelle in our Branch Network. Thank you, Bonnie, Perry, Sandi and Michelle, so much for your participation. Based on your responses, our Simply Service® culture and the credit union difference shine.

Meet Michelle:

Tell us a little about yourself. Briefly share the number of credit union years that you have served.

Hi I’m Michelle, I am a wife, a mother of two adult sons, and the owner of two fur babies (Nino and Kobe). PACU is the first credit union I have worked for. I started June 2018

When someone mentions “credit union,” what is one word or phrase that comes to your mind and why?

FAMILY. If I assist 75 members a day, at least 60 of those members treat me like I am a member of their family. I believe this is because I greet each and everyone of them with a smile.

What attracted you to the credit union?

My husband had an auto loan with Valley Star Credit Union, that is part of the Co-Op. I came to make a payment and fell in love with the Advantage Way branch. I had never seen a Credit Union like this before. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. I felt like I was at home.

What similarities or characteristics do you share with the credit union?

Giving everyone a fair chance. In life we are not going to always cross every T or dot every I. So by giving those members that need the courage and guidance, it sets them up for success. This is how I was raised and it’s what I do daily; giving people a chance.

Can you share a personal experience that highlights the sense of purpose and fulfillment that comes with working in the credit union industry?

I opened up an account for a young lady fresh out of high school. She worked a job and was a student. A year later she applied for a credit card with me. She was approved for $500.00 She was so excited because I blocked off time for her 6 months prior. We talked about credit and the importance of it. This member comes in every month and pays off her credit card. I have been able to watch her grow with her education, becoming a woman, and developing her relationship with Piedmont Advantage Credit Union. What an honor!