Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors, Meet Debi

When Debi Conway is not feeling the wind in her hair on the back of a motorcycle, she’s serving her community as a Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor, helping members achieve their financial dreams and overcome hardships.

Debi has worked in financial institutions for over 40 years, so she knows a thing or two about counseling members seeking financial guidance.

While working in banks and credit unions, Debi has tried her hand at a little of everything. “Working my way up in the industry helped me be more perceptive and aware of what people are going through,” Debi said. “It’s been a lovely journey.”

Debi is now PACU’s Assistant Vice President of Branch Services, overseeing the credit union’s six branches and call center. Becoming a financial counselor has given her the confidence to help more people build their credit, which has always been her favorite part of the job.

While building up your credit is no easy feat, financial counselors like Debi will be by your side every step of the way.

“I’ve had a few members come in with credit below 500, but we kept working on it,” Debi said. “After six months to a year, they see their credit score rise, and they get so excited because they can now buy a car at a lower rate or finance a house.”

The average credit score in North Carolina is 709.

According to Debi, knowing your members’ stories is essential to creating a financial plan that works for them. Debi recalls a newlywed couple she worked with who had poor credit but wanted to buy a home and start a family.

“I worked with them for about a year and a half, after which they were able to buy their first home,” Debi said reminiscently. “It was so exciting to be on that journey with them and help them take the necessary steps to achieve their dream. Once they closed on their house, they came back in and gave me a little plant as a thank-you. The little things like that make working at PACU so special.”

Although Debi has worked in various financial industry sectors, she feels that PACU is the most like home for her. “The mindset of credit unions, like PACU, focuses more on people than the shareholder-centered approach of banks,” she said.

Debi advises members to save a few months’ payments in their accounts and stay informed about the economy.

“It’s important to stay aware of the economic landscape that we live in,” Debi said. “That way, it’s easier to ensure your budget and savings fall in line with what’s going on in the outside world. I firmly believe it’s always better to be safe than sorry.”

Are you in need of financial advice or just a kind word? Contact Debi at [email protected].