JACKSON, Mich.–Long-time American 1 CU President and CEO David C. Puckett has announced his retirement effective in December, with the credit union also announcing his successor.
“It has been an incredible honor to serve the members of American 1 Credit Union for the past three and a half decades,” said Puckett. “I really couldn’t be much happier with my years at American 1.”
Since Puckett took leadership in 1982, American 1 Credit Union has seen two name changes, six successful mergers, a charter change, growth from around 7,000 members to more than 55,000 members, and expansion from two branch locations to 13 branches spanning six counties across southern Michigan, the credit union reported.
“Through all of the years of changes and accomplishments,” continued Puckett, “I truly think our greatest achievement is our focus on our community. Without our members, we wouldn’t be the stable institution that we are today. It is because of them that we are able to give back as generously as we do.”
In 2016 alone, American 1 gave back more than $1 million to its members and over $150,000 to charities in the communities that they serve.
American 1 has named Executive Vice President Martha Fuerstenau as Puckett’s successor upon his December retirement. Fuerstenau has been with American 1 for 33 years and will begin serving as President and CEO on January 1, 2018.
“I am thrilled to take on the role of president and CEO, and honored to be chosen by the board of directors of American 1 Credit Union,” remarked Fuerstenau. “Excellent service to our members in the communities we serve will continue to be the focus of our team. American 1 Credit Union, under the leadership of retiring CEO David Puckett, is financially strong and ready for future growth and development. I look forward to working with the board, staff, and membership to build on our current success of meeting the financial needs of all people in our community.”