LOWELL, Mass. – Credit unions in two states have named new leadership.
In Massachusetts, the $2.18-billion Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union (JDCU) has selected Larissa Thurston to succeed the Mark Cochran as CEO. Cochran plans to retire at the end of the summer.
Thurston brings more than 24 years of financial services experience to her new role, most recently serving as president/CEO of the $997.2-million St. Mary’s Credit Union in Marlborough, Mass. Prior to that, Thurston held various other executive level positions at both St. Mary’s CU and the Bank of New England, where she served as vice president and controller.
“I’m honored to carry Mark’s philanthropic work forward and continue building upon JDCU’s ‘Heart to Serve’ mission with the support of our experienced executive leadership team and dedicated employees,” Thurston said in a statement. “Together, I know we will find new and innovative ways to positively impact our community, further strengthen our cooperative, and help even more members make smart financial choices.”
‘Passionate Volunteer’
As a “passionate” community volunteer, Thurston also:
- Currently serves as chair for both the Boys & Girls Club of MetroWest and the United Way of Tri-County
- Is on the board of the Marlborough Economic Development Committee
- Served on the board of the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce
- Served as a volunteer Income Tax Preparer and a student mentor through Read to a Child
- Has been a committee member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston’s Member Advisory Panel and a member of the Bolton Economic Development Committee.
Educational Background
Thurston earned her Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science in Accounting & Finance, minor IT/CIS from Southern New Hampshire University.
She has also continued her professional education by receiving an Executive Leadership Certificate through Wharton Executive Education, graduating from the ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking and completing the ABA’s Financial Managers School.
‘Incredibly Grateful’
“We are delighted to announce that Larissa Thurston will join JDCU as our next president and CEO,” Board Chair Naomi Prendergast said in a statement. “Larissa’s extensive experience as both a credit union CEO and CFO, coupled with the talents of our existing executive team, will continue and expand upon JDCU’s standing as a mission-focused community financial partner. Our board is incredibly grateful to Mark Cochran, our outgoing President and CEO for the past 17 years, and we wish him all the best upon his retirement.”
The search was handled by DDJ Myers.
Bronco FCU Names New President and CEO
Separately, in Franklin, Va., the $253.8-million Bronco Federal Credit Union has named Michael “Mike” Kenzie as its new CEO effective July 22.
Kenzie will replace Brian Hedgepeth, CEO for 13 years, who announced in April 2024 his intention to retire later this year.
Kenzie has more than 25 years of experience in the financial services industry and16 specifically in the credit union movement. Prior to joining Bronco Federal Credit Union, he served as chief information officer at Patriot Federal Credit Union in Chambersburg, Penn., where he oversaw nearly all aspects of the credit union’s operations.
“He was instrumental in enhancing member engagement by implementing mobile banking and the OmniChannel initiative, growing the asset size of the credit union not only through organic growth, but leading Patriot Federal Credit Union through two mergers, and overseeing the construction of five new branches,” Bronco FCU said in a statement.
Military, Educational Background
Before his financial sector career, Kenzie served with distinction in the elite 75th Ranger Regiment Special Operations Unit of the U.S. Army, serving three combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Information Systems. He is also a graduate of the Certified Chief Executive (CCE) program, which includes executive certifications from Wharton, Cornell, and the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. Additionally, Ken ize has earned numerous other leadership and technology certifications, “underscoring his commitment to continuous learning and excellence in his field,” the credit union said.
Additional Contributions
Beyond his professional achievements, Kenzie is “deeply committed to community engagement,” according to BFCU, which said the new CEO has:
- Has led leadership training for the Chamber of Commerce
- Taught at the local community college, demonstrating his dedication to fostering leadership development.
- A passion for supporting community initiatives, ensuring that the credit union remains a cornerstone of local engagement and support.
‘Motivated Leader’
"We are thrilled to welcome Michael 'Mike' Kenzie to the Bronco Federal Credit Union family," said Board Chair Dell Cotton in a statement. "He is a motivated leader with the experience and insight necessary to guide our credit union into the next chapter. We are confident that under his leadership, Bronco Federal Credit Union will continue to achieve both new heights and deliver exceptional member service to everyone that calls Bronco home: members and staff.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Brian for his commitment and leadership at Bronco Federal Credit Union,” Dell continued. “He is leaving Bronco Federal Credit Union well-positioned for success, thanks to his strategies and diligent leadership over the last 13 years as CEO. We are happy to share that Brian will be working closely with Mike to ensure a seamless transition until he retires in the fall of 2024.”
‘Incredibly Honored’
Added Kenzie, "I am incredibly honored and excited to continue building on the strong foundation that Brian and his dedicated team have established at Bronco Federal Credit Union. Their hard work and commitment have positioned the credit union for great success. Working alongside an exceptionally talented Board and staff, my focus will be on putting our members at the center of our strategy, continuously evolving and developing new ways to fulfill our commitment to being a positive, empowering, and enabling presence for our members, staff, and community."