WHO WE ARE
Who we are and what we can do for you
About Acclaim
Our Story.
Acclaim FCU was started in 1972 by Blue Bell (formerly VF Corporation, now Kontoor) employees because they wanted a better banking option for themselves and their families. They pooled their money together and created a financial institution where they could safely invest, save, and borrow money at competitive rates and without high banking fees. They recognized that each person and family had a story and different needs, and they wanted a financial institution that recognized that too. Today we remain committed to being that type of financial institution for all of our members but especially VF employees and their families, who continue to be our largest membership group and the reason we exist.
President /Chief Executive Officer
Valerie Marsh has been a credit union professional for over 40 years. She began her credit union career as a teller in 1980. Before her move to Acclaim FCU in 2002 as VP of Accounting, she held various credit union positions and learned many different aspects of credit unions which allowed her the opportunity to become Acclaim Federal Credit Union’s President/CEO in 2007. During her leadership, credit union assets have grown over 128%. This growth is a testament to our members’ continued confidence in Acclaim. This growth was also possible with the help of an exceptional group of unpaid volunteers, management and staff whose teamwork and dedication make Acclaim’s accomplishments possible.
During Valerie’s credit union career, she has served on various credit union committees and currently serves as a director for the North Piedmont Chapter of Credit Unions. Valerie received an Associates of Applied Science degree in 1980. She also received a Credit Union Management Certificate for completing The Southeast Regional CUNA Management School in 1998 from The University of Georgia.
On a personal note, Valerie is married and has two grown children and four grandchildren. She enjoys spending time with family, making creations with polymer clay and reading. She also serves as the Treasurer for her local church.
Mission, Vision, & Values
Our Principles.
MISSION
To make trustworthy connections while providing outstanding member service and quality financial products.
VISION
We exist to provide trustworthy connections with our staff, members and community that are informative & motivating. We are passionate about establishing deep financial relationships that grow through all seasons of life. We are here for today’s financial needs and to help with your dreams for tomorrow.
VALUES
C – Cooperative– We strive to live the cooperative principle of “people helping people” by volunteerism and giving back to the community.
O – Outstanding– We are committed to providing outstanding member service.
N – Navigate– We are here to help you navigate through all walks of life.
N – Needs– We strive to meet the individual needs of each member.
E – Empower– We are committed to empower our members by providing valuable information and education.
C – Clear– We strive to be clear about our roles and responsibilities and hold ourselves accountable.
T – Trust– We make trust the foundation of all our relationships with members, employees, and vendors.
Our Board
The elected volunteers who provide guidance and strategy for our credit union.
Our Board of Directors consists primarily of VF employees or retirees who volunteer their time to help make us a success. Interested in learning more about how you can be involved in the future of your credit union? Email Admin@AcclaimFCU.org.
Current Board Members
| Name | Position | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Bruce Wiley | Chairman of the Board | Board Member since 2003 |
| Tommy Riggins | Vice Chairman | Board Member since 2018 |
| Keith Taylor | Treasurer | Board Member since 2000 |
| Joanne Otto | Director | Board Member since 2010 |
| Lara Heberle | Director | Board Member since 2016 |
| Carla Ugboro | Director | Board Member since 2016 |
| David Dalton | Secretary | Board Member since 2016 |
| Lisa Henninger | Director | Board Member since 2021 |
| Zac Engle | Director | Board Member since 2021 |
Supervisory Committee
Our Supervisory Committee consists of Credit Union members who volunteer their time to help ensure the Credit Union is meeting financial reporting objectives and properly safeguarding members’ assets. They perform audits to confirm the safety and soundness of the Credit Union’s financial position.
Current Supervisory Committee
| Name | Position | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Donna Apple | Chair of the Supervisory Committee | Committee Member since 2016 |
| Fredricka Chism | Supervisory Committee | Committee Member since 2016 |
| O.B. Phillips | Supervisory Committee | Committee Member since 2019 |
