Celebrating International Credit Union Day: Meet Bonnie

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, this week, 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 Bonnie!

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

On September 13, 2023, I celebrated my 41st Anniversary with credit unions. 35 years with other credit unions in the industry and 15 years at PACU.

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

People Helping People. When I first came to work, that was the phrase that I heard used most often, and the one that still gets me today.

What attracted you to the credit union?

If I’m being totally honest, I needed a job and kind of fell into this! I had been working part time at a bank after graduating from college, and I knew I liked the financial world, but jobs were few in the area where I planned to settle down. My then fiancé – now husband – overheard someone talking about the need to hire someone at a credit union because their assistant was leaving. The Credit Union where I started consisted of 2 full time people and 1 part time person. He started asking questions, I met with them and started a career that has lasted a lifetime. The phrase I mentioned earlier, “People Helping People” is what has kept me here for 41 years. I am so thankful to be able to work in a field where empowering others is such a strong focus.

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

My family has always lived our lives in roles that provide service to others. My husband and I are active volunteers at our church and in the community, our children have both gone into careers that change lives as a dance instructor and a first responder/firefighter. Credit Unions are dedicated to serving our members, my personal life and beliefs reflect that as well. I love that Credit Unions work to educate our members financially so that they can change their lives for the better.

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

Just being able to help someone when they need it the most.