Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, Piedmont Advantage Credit Union held its 76^th Annual Membership Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 30, at Maple Chase Golf and Country Club. The event featured inspiring and thought-provoking remarks from Chairman of the Board Tom Mekis and President & CEO Dion Williams, who underscored the credit union’s resilience and unwavering commitment to serve.

With updates on financial strength, technology upgrades and community impact, the message was clear. PACU is prepared for the future, with members and belonging at its core.

Strength in Resilience

Mekis shared that PACU’s net worth, or “rainy day fund,” remains above 7%, indicating a well-capitalized credit union. This strength enables us to continue overcoming challenges with support from our dedicated volunteers, staff, and members and ongoing investments in technology, system upgrades, and managing operating expenses.

“While we recognize that credit unions are a people business, we are investing in technology to meet the expectations of today’s generation without leaving our long-term members behind,” Mekis said. “We upgraded our core system in 2024, our website earlier this year, and our online and mobile banking platforms are up next.”

Right-Sizing Facilities

Another way we are shifting gears to serve our members better is by addressing operating expenses related to the size of our facilities.

The relocation of our university branch is an example of downsizing some of our facilities. We are also seeking tenants to help offset operating costs in facilities with extra space, such as the second floor of the Advantage Way building and our Mooresville branch.

“This strategy ultimately results in having more, smaller facilities to help the credit union reach new markets,” Williams said. “Rest assured, we are leaving no stone unturned when it comes to strategies to grow, reduce operating expenses, increase revenue, and stay true to our cooperative roots.”

Meeting Members Where They Are

Keeping up with technology is essential to growing with our members’ needs. With this in mind, we upgraded our core banking system last year and launched our redesigned website in May.

Whether members prefer speaking one-on-one with a PACU team member or using the online mobile banking app, members will receive the first-class experience members expect and deserve.

“At the end of the day, helping people and Simply Service® are at the heart of everything we do at PACU,” Williams said. “And it’s not just with our members, but also our communities.”

PACU Foundation: Five Years of Impact

The PACU Foundation, celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, has raised and gifted $100,000 since its founding. According to PACU Foundation President Jean Golden-Rumer, it is on track to meet its fundraising goal of $50,000 this year.

“Every cent raised through the foundation goes to area charities that help residents overcome financial hardship through access to financial literacy, education and disaster relief,” Golden-Rumer explained. “To those who have donated to the PACU Foundation or volunteered time to our efforts, thank you. We could not accomplish these impressive milestones without your generous contributions.”

Looking Ahead

As PACU looks to the future, it focuses on showing up, caring for communities and creating a space where everyone feels they belong.

We will keep investing in infrastructure, technology, training, staffing, and everything else that improves your experience as a member,” Williams said.

“One of our favorite words to describe PACU is belonging. You have a home at PACU, and we look forward to being your trusted partner on your lifelong financial journey.”