DECATUR, Ill.–New CEOs have been named by credit unions in Illinois and New Mexico, respectively.
The $297-million Decatur Earthmover Credit Union (DECU) has selected Beth Puckett to serve as its next CEO, succeeding the retiring Barry Schimdt.
Puckett has served DECU for 24 years, most recently as the cooperative’s vice president of lending. Throughout her tenure, she has held many different roles including mortgage lender, indirect lender, branch manager and underwriter, the credit union said.
‘Truly Honored’
“I am truly honored to step into the role of CEO and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving DECU, our members and our community. I’m deeply committed to honoring the trust placed in DECU by serving with integrity, care and compassion,” Puckett said in a statement. “Thank you to our board of directors for their unwavering commitment. The support they bring and their dedication to our continued success is truly invaluable.”
Puckett earned her bachelor’s degree in finance from Illinois State University. She is married with two children and two bonus children. In her spare time, Puckett loves to travel and spend time with her family. While she enjoys puzzles during cold months, she prefers to be poolside, beachside or fireside whenever possible.
Appreciation for Retiring CEO
Board Chairman John Kraft also expressed appreciation for the contributions made by Barry Schmidt.
“Barry’s servant leadership approach has been critical to DECU’s success,” Kraft said in a statement. “The board is beyond thankful for all his contributions, and we’re sure his impact will continue to be seen throughout the organization for years to come.”
About the Search
The search was handled by DDJMyers.
“Working with DDJ Myers was an excellent experience. I deeply appreciate their thoughtful process and professionalism. Their expertise ensured a smooth transition and reinforced our shared commitment to the credit union’s future,” said Puckett.
New CEO Named at US Eagle FCU
In Albuquerque, N.M, Marsha Majors has announced her retirement as president and CEO after marking 40-years of service at the $1.45-billion U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union. Michael Moore has been promoted to president and CEO. With more than 16 years at U.S. Eagle, Moore previously served as executive vice president and CFO.
“After 40 incredible years with U.S. Eagle, I have made the decision to retire. It has truly been an honor to serve our members and work alongside such an amazing team. Together, we have built a credit union that not only serves our communities but also values each and every employee,” Majors said in a statement. “I cannot think of a more fulfilling 40 years than having an impact on the lives of others. I have been incredibly fortunate to work at a company that recognizes individual accomplishments and my mentor John Thompson, former U.S. Eagle CEO, was a great advocate who opened up opportunities for me to grow and succeed.
“I’ve also had the pleasure of working for many years with an amazing team of people,” Majors continued. “Along with our membership, I prioritized the needs of my staff because without them we could not have accomplished the work that made a difference in the lives of our members, people living in the communities we serve, and the company’s employees,” said Majors.
Milestones Set
U.S. Eagle noted Majors also set milestones as she was the first African American woman to run a credit union with $1 billion or greater in assets in the U.S., and her retirement culminates with the honor of having received the African American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC) 2025 Pete Crear Lifetime Achievement Award in 2025.
When Majors joined the credit union 40 years ago, it operated under the name Albuquerque U.S. Employees Federal Credit Union serving primarily local government employees with two branches in Albuquerque. Throughout the years, the credit union grew and changed its name to U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union, thus becoming more inclusive and servicing more than government workers, and expanded to 10 branches across Central, Northwest and Northern Mexico. It currently supports more than 100,000 members with over 300 employees statewide.
“From championing financial well-being to fostering a culture rooted in trust, integrity, inclusivity and community, Marsha shaped not only our credit union’s success but also the lives of the members and employees who are at the center of everything we do. Under her vision, U.S. Eagle grew stronger, more innovative, and more connected to the communities we serve,” Board Chair Kevin McMahon said in a statement.
Honor to Continue Legacy
“It is an honor to continue Marsha’s legacy and lead U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union into the next decade focusing on the financial wellness of our members, partnerships with the community and a companywide commitment to service,” Michael Moore said in a statement.
‘More Ways to Serve Members’
U.S. Eagle FCU said its expansion during the last 40 years has provided more ways for the organization to serve its members. The credit union offers financial wellness and education programs; a bill shark service that helps consolidate expenses and finds the best rates from service providers; pet insurance options for pet owners; the opportunity to receive a paycheck two days early; roadside assistance, and more.
Additional Offerings
The credit union also noted that under Majors’ leadership, U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union initiated a program that supports survivors of domestic violence. The credit union also changed its course of business through the years and adapted its services to support the diverse needs of its members. In fact, it said it was the first credit union in New Mexico to make banking services available for cannabis-related businesses.
It also initiated a special program called “MOMMs” centered around meeting the needs of members of modest means.
