ORLANDO, Fla. – The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates has presented its highest awards to both credit unions and individuals.

The awards were announced during the association’s ENGAGE Conference, held in Orlando. The League represents credit unions in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Virginia. 

The winners include:

Credit Unions of the Year

• Up to $100 Million in Assets: Peoples Advantage Federal Credit Union – Petersburg, Va.
• $100 Million to $500 Million in Assets: Platinum Federal Credit Union, Duluth, Georgia
• More Than $500 Million in Assets: Chartway Credit Union – Virginia Beach, Va.

From left: League President Samantha Beeler; President/CEO of Peoples Advantage Credit Union, Amanda Habansky; and League Board Chair and President/CEO of USF Credit Union, Richard Skaggs.

“Peoples Advantage Federal Credit Union was recognized for its strategic vision and deep commitment to equity, providing tailored financial services to underserved communities in Petersburg and Richmond, Virginia,” the League said. “Notable initiatives like their Financial Empowerment Centers and Affordable Home Ownership Program reflect their dedication to breaking down financial barriers and building long-term sustainability.”

From left: League President Samantha Beeler; President/CEO of Platinum Federal Credit Union, Kabir Laiwalla; Platinum Federal Credit Union Board Chair, Amin Tejani; and League Board Chair and President/CEO of USF Credit Union, Richard Skaggs.

“Platinum Federal Credit Union, serving members across 35 states, has excelled in financial inclusion by disbursing over $800 million in loans and awarding $1 million in scholarships,” the League said. “Their culturally inclusive approach—offering multilingual resources and impactful outreach—demonstrates a steadfast commitment to service, education, and empowerment.”

From left: League President Samantha Beeler; President/CEO of Chartway Credit Union, Brian Schools; and League Board Chair and President/CEO of USF Credit Union, Richard Skaggs.

“Chartway Credit Union made a remarkable impact in 2024 by returning $40 million in dividends to members and significantly expanding their services, including new branches and advanced teller technology,” the League said. “Their investment in youth, financial literacy, and community giving underscores a mission rooted in empowerment, accessibility, and sustained impact.”

The Emerging Professional of the Year Award

This award celebrates early-career professionals who have shown exceptional promise, dedication, and enthusiasm for the credit union mission.

The 2024 recipients are:

• Kevin Whitman, Heritage South Credit Union – Sylacauga, Ala.
• Iovani Lopez, Publix Employees Federal Credit Union – Lakeland, Fla.
• Sache’ Rodriguez, GeoVista Credit Union – Hinesville, Ga.
• Allie Moebius, Northwest Federal Credit Union (formerly) – Herndon, Va.

“These rising leaders bring bold ideas, boundless energy, and a deep sense of purpose to everything they do,” Beeler said in a statement. “From grassroots advocacy and community outreach to financial inclusion and youth mentorship, their impact is already profound. The future of the credit union movement is brighter because of their vision and drive.” 

The Professional of the Year Award 

The award recognizes seasoned credit union professionals for their exceptional service and contributions to the credit union system through innovation, leadership, and advocacy. In Virginia, this award is known as the Eugene H. Farley Award in recognition of its historical significance.

The 2024 recipients are:

• Joe Newberry, Redstone Federal Credit Union – Huntsville, Ala.
• Don Williams, MIDFLORIDA Credit Union – Lakeland, Fla.
• Christina O’Brien, Robins Financial Credit Union – Warner Robins, Ga.
• Deb Vollmer, Langley Federal Credit Union – Newport News, Va.

“These professionals exemplify what it means to lead with purpose and serve with passion,” said Beeler. “Your exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to service embody the very spirit of the credit union movement. From expanding access to financial education and championing consumer advocacy, to mentoring future leaders and transforming communities through philanthropy, your work has left an indelible mark. We celebrate not just your achievements, but the lives you’ve touched and the futures you’ve helped shape.”

The Advocate of the Year Award 

The recognizes professionals who have made outstanding contributions to advocacy efforts, promoting and advancing the credit union cause at both the state and national levels. In Virginia, this award is titled the Red Scarf Advocacy Award to honor its unique legacy.

The 2024 recipients are:

• Mark Johnson, Naheola Credit Union – Pennington, Ala.
• Thomas Flowers, Calhoun Liberty Credit Union – Blountstown, Fla.
• Brandee Bickle, Georgia’s Own Credit Union – Atlanta, Ga.
• Paul Willis, BayPort Credit Union – Newport News, Va.

 Distinguished Service Award

Steve Swofford, president and CEO of Alabama Credit Union, is the 2024 Distinguished Service Award recipient. 

“This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a lifetime of outstanding commitment, leadership, and impact on the credit union movement,” the League said. “Steve Swofford began his credit union career in 1980 with the Alabama Credit Union League, where he started as Director of Public Relations and eventually became Executive Vice President. In 1998, he joined Alabama Credit Union as President and CEO. Under his leadership, Alabama Credit Union has experienced remarkable growth in assets, membership, and team size. Known for his authentic leadership and dedication to the credit union philosophy, Swofford has consistently invested in the development of his team and advanced the mission of people helping people.”

“I am deeply honored by this recognition, but it’s not about what I’ve done—it’s about the people I’ve been honored to work alongside,” said Swofford. “Credit unions change lives—and I’ve been fortunate enough to witness that firsthand every day throughout my career. From my early days as Director of Public Relations to now leading Alabama Credit Union through incredible growth, it’s been the passion and purpose of our people that have driven everything. Seeing our team grow, thrive, and carry forward the mission of ‘People Helping People’ is the legacy I’m most proud of.”