HINESVILLE, Ga. — GeoVista Credit Union has named Vanessa McGarry as its new CEO, succeeding Elaine Tuten, who is retiring from the position after a 52-year career that saw the credit union grow from about $2 million to $247 million in assets.
McGarry has spent her entire 40-year career at GeoVista. Tuten will remain president of the southeast Georgia credit union for the time being to assist with the leadership transition, GeoVista said.
“Elaine and Vanessa represent the very best of the credit union movement — a deep commitment to members, a belief in service and an understanding that leadership is ultimately about people,” board Chair Susan Ammons said.
Joined as Bookkeeper
Elaine Tuten
Tuten joined GeoVista in February 1974 as a bookkeeper and assistant manager, when the credit union had approximately $2 million in assets, one branch and five employees.
She was promoted to manager about six months later, with her title eventually changing to president and then CEO as GeoVista expanded. During her tenure, the credit union grew to $247 million in assets, 21,683 members and 81 employees.
In 1984, Tuten became the first person in Georgia to earn the Certified Credit Union Executive designation, according to GeoVista.
‘Privilege of My Life’
“It has been the privilege of my life to serve GeoVista, our members and the people who have worked alongside me throughout these years,” Tuten said in a statement. “What makes this transition especially meaningful is knowing the organization will be led by someone who understands GeoVista from the inside out.”
Tuten said she has watched McGarry develop professionally and as a leader for four decades and has “tremendous confidence” in her and the credit union’s future.
Rose Through GeoVista’s Ranks
McGarry joined GeoVista in August 1986 as a part-time collections assistant and subsequently held positions in bookkeeping, share draft operations, accounting and human resources.
She became vice president of accounting in 2002 and was named chief financial officer in January 2008, a position she held until becoming executive vice president in February, the credit union said.
McGarry graduated with high honors from CUNA Management School in 2021 and earned the Certified Credit Union Executive designation. She also earned the Certified Credit Union Investments Professional designation in 2018.
Outside GeoVista, McGarry serves on the boards of the Georgia Credit Union Executives Association and Members Core Alliance. She also has held leadership and volunteer positions with the Defense Credit Union Council and The League, including involvement in credit union advocacy and Credit Unions for Kids initiatives.
‘Important Part of My Life’
“GeoVista has been such an important part of my life, and I am deeply honored by the trust the Board has placed in me,” McGarry said. “As we look ahead, my commitment is to build upon that foundation — to honor what has made GeoVista special while continuing to evolve so we can meet the changing needs of our members and communities.”
