ALBANY, N.Y.–Paula Stopera, 64, who retired as CEO of CAP COM FCU in 2019 after a 40-year career with the credit union, has died.
In a statement, CAP COM noted Stopera joined the credit union in 1980 as a membership relationship Officer when the CU had just nine employees. By 2004 she had ascended to the role of president/CEO.
“Serving for over 15 years in that role, Paula oversaw CAP COM’s record growth to 130,000 members, almost $1.8 billion in assets and over 360 employees,” CAP COM said. “Paula was known throughout the Capital Region as a strong proponent of corporate giving and service, and she leaves a legacy of philanthropy both personal and professional.
In 2003 Stopera, along with Sharon Phillips, founded the CAP COM Cares Foundation which has donated approximately $5 million to local non-profits.
‘Beyond Measure’
“Paula’s influence on CAP COM is beyond measure,” stated President and CEO Chris McKenna. “As the architect of our philanthropic culture and a passionate advocate for our ‘every member, every time, every day’ philosophy, Paula shaped the direction of CAP COM forever. Her infectious personality, her steady hand and her huge heart will be missed by all of us.”
The credit union said Stopera’s influence in the Capital Region community went well beyond her role at CAP COM.
“Her positive impact lives on in the many charitable institutions she supported, the men and women she mentored, and her legacy of support for a growing and thriving Capital Region business community,” COP COM stated.
Stopera is survived by her daughter, Amanda Goyer, son-in-law Chris Goyer, and grandsons Roen and Noah. In her passing, Stopera joins her son, Alex Stopera, the credit union noted.