WAILUKU, Hawaii–Maui County FCU has named a new president and CEO to succeed the retiring Garu Fukuroku.
Effective Sept. 1, Michele Kawahara will lead the $470-million organization. Kawara has served as MCFCU’s vice president for the past five years, “playing a key role in strategic planning, operational growth, and strengthening community partnerships,” the credit union said.
Prior to joining MCFCU, she served as CEO of West Maui Community FCU for nearly 14 years, “gaining extensive leadership experience and a deep understanding of the unique needs of Maui’s residents,” MCFCU added.
‘Honored to be Chosen’
“I am honored to be chosen to lead Maui County Federal Credit Union into its next chapter,” Kawahara said in a statement. “It’s a privilege to build upon the strong foundation and remarkable legacy Gary has
established over the past 34 years. I will continue to work to ensure our members’ needs remain at the center of every decision, to strengthen their financial futures, and to honor the credit union tradition of people helping people.”
Three Decades of Leadership
Fukuroku, who will retire on August 31, 2025, after more than three decades of “transformative leadership,” the credit union said.
“Since taking the helm in 1991, Gary has guided MCFCU through tremendous growth, from one branch and nine employees serving 6,000 members, to three branches with a team of nearly 70 serving more than 20,000 members,” MCFCU stated. “Under his leadership, the credit union expanded its products and services to better meet members’ needs, introduced digital banking, built two main offices, and modernized its core processing system, all while staying true to the credit union philosophy of people helping people and fulfilling its mission of caring for members’ needs by providing services that encourage financial well-being.”
‘Thoughtful & Thorough’
Added Board Chair Rhonda Loo in a statement, “The board conducted a thoughtful and thorough search process to ensure we selected a leader who embodies our mission and values. Michele’s credit union leadership, deep community roots, and dedication to our members make her the ideal choice to guide us into the future.”
