RENO, Nev. – Sierra Pacific FCU has named a new president and CEO. The credit union said that after seven months serving as vice president, Leslie Ramsdell has been named to succeed Jim Hunting, who has served in the role for more than 20 years.
“We are absolutely confident that Leslie’s ingenuity, depth of expertise, energy and passion are right for the members of Sierra Pacific,” Hunting said. “I’ve had the privilege of working with Leslie for many years and she sets herself apart as a goal-oriented, results-driven leader for our team and our membership.”
The $180-million CU has more than 10,400 members.
Ramsdell has more than 21 years of experience with the credit union, having served in roles from teller to director of operations and chief information security officer before her most recent appointment to VP in July 2022.
“I’m incredibly energized by this new challenge to lead Sierra Pacific through its next stage,” Ramsdell said. “For more than 87 years our mission has been to help our members achieve their financial goals. We have an extraordinary team to help improve the quality of life of those we serve now and in the future.”
Oversaw Strong Growth
Hunting now serves as vice president of the credit union with a primary focus on business development. Under his direction as CEO, the credit union said he expanded the credit union’s presence into Las Vegas and Phoenix and maintained significant financial strength as Sierra Pacific is one of the top 200 safest credit unions in the nation.
“Jim gave us an unparalleled strategic foundation of people, technology and business strategy,” Ramsdell said. “His passion for the credit union movement is infectious, and I’m thrilled that he continues to build business partnerships and member relationships on behalf of Sierra Pacific.”
Retirement in Pennsylvania
In Danville, Penn., meanwhile, Service 1st Federal Credit Union President/CEO Bill Lavage has announced plans to retire in September 2023 after 42 years of leading the credit union, which has close to 39,000 members.
“It has been a tremendous and fun 42-year ride! I have worked with many talented individuals who shared the desire to make Service 1st an exceptional financial institution,” said Lavage. “A heartfelt thankyou to all the wonderful people who showed me so much love, kindness, and support in my 42 years at Service 1st.”
Started With NCUA
Lavage began his career with NCUA before taking over in 1981 in president/CEO of what was then Geisinger Employees FCU. It changed its name in 1995. During Lavage’s tenure he oversaw growth to $620 million in assets from $2 million, oversaw expansion to 11 branch locations and the building of a online and digital presence.
Under his guidance, Service 1st was named Credit Union of the Year by the NAFU, and in 2019 the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce awarded the credit union Business of the Year. The Montour Area Recreation Commission named Service 1st its 2021 Corporate Supporter of the Year.
Additional Recognition
In 2021, Raddon Financial Group awarded Service 1st with the Crystal Performance Award for the fourth time since 2010.
In 2000, Lavage received the William W. Pratt Lifetime Achievement Award from the then Pennsylvania Credit Union Association. He was the 2014 recipient of the Thomas E. Beiter Award in recognition of his service with the Danville Business Alliance. Lavage became an Honorary Alumnus of Danville Area High School in 2019. He was recently honored by the Community Giving Foundation with the 2022 Robert N. Pursel Award for Community Service.
He has also been very active in the community, including starting two traditions at Service 1st: the Annual Charity Duck Derby and the credit union’s Annual Charity Golf Tournament. Together, these events have raised over $607,000 to benefit local non-profit organizations.
The credit union said a search for a successor is underway.
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