Today longtime American 1 Credit Union President and CEO David C. Puckett officially announced his retirement after 35 years of service to the credit union.
“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 in reference to his retirement. “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.
“Through all of the years of changes and accomplishments,” continues 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.
“There is no doubt that American 1 Credit Union would not be the strong, sound financial institution it is today without Dave’s direction and influence,” commented Senator Philip Hoffman, American 1 Board Chairman and former State Senator. “He has been instrumental in the success of American 1 and will be leaving quite a legacy.”
After a nationwide search, the American 1 Board of Directors have chosen current American 1 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 regarding her forthcoming position change. “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.”
Established in 1950, American 1 Credit Union today serves over 55,000 members with branches in Jackson, Washtenaw, Hillsdale, Calhoun, Macomb and Wayne counties.
