PORTLAND, Ind.––The CEO of CrossRoads Financial FCU here has announced plans to retire. Janet Bantz said she will step down on Jan. 1.
Bantz has led the credit union since 1989, when she was hired to serve as manager of what was then known as Portland Forge Employees FCU. At the time, the credit union served consumers from five employer groups, including the Portland Forge and Jay County Schools, and it held $4 million in assets with six employees and one office. The credit union has since grown to more than $57 million in assets and more than 9,000 members who are served by 29 employees.
Bantz has guided the credit union through a name change, transformation of the main office, expansion of the branch network to its current four full-service offices and met community needs with the award-winning program—"Tackling Hunger,” noted the Indiana Credit Union League.
“As our membership and credit union grew over the years, it’s not because the population increased,” Bantz said in a statement. “It was because we offer a good alternative to financial services the people had access to, and the word spread as we met their financial needs. We have always strived to take care of members and provide the products and services to meet their ever-changing needs.”
Prior to her credit union career, Bantz served as controller and EVP at the former Citizens Bank in Portland.
Many Relationships Developed
“During her leadership at CFFCU, there have been many financial relationships developed. Bantz has been a confidante and advisor, she has assisted members of the community with accounts, loans, teaching and building trust for their future growth,” the league said in the statement.
During her career Bantz has also served in voluntary roles with the United Way of Jay County, Jay County Chamber, Rotary Club, Girls Club, Jay Community Center, JRDS, Jay County Hospital and IU Health Jay.
“Janet more than deserves our gratitude for her tireless work on behalf of the credit union and our members. Though she will be greatly missed by everyone, she will be leaving the credit union in excellent condition,” said Joday Auker, CFFCU board chair. “Her successor has been approved by the board and will be announced at a later date.”