ORNL FCU 75 Years

A Word of Acknowledgment

This seventy-fifth anniversary commemorative book was more than just a project for our team. It was a collaborative initiative that brought together current and former employees, board members, community partners, and members, all of whom were excited to share what they knew of ORNL Federal Credit Union’s history and contribute to something that would be enjoyed for years to come. This book project was led by Assistant Vice President of Corporate Relations Jessica Emert and Chief Marketing Officer Tom Wright. Together, their concept came to life under the direction of the book’s author, Susie Riley. Susie’s expert guidance made this book a one-of-a-kind chronicle of the credit union’s storied history. Hours of interviews, researching, writing, and proofreading went into the creation of this book. We would like to acknowledge the following individuals for their contributions: Craig Alexander, Colin Anderson, Chris Boler, Dawn Brummett, Melissa Chase, Janita Clausell, Heather Clayborne, Becky Curry, Jessica Emert, Matthew Garrett, Greg Goodman, Randy Gorman, Andrea Griffitts, Myra Grindle, Chris Hagans, Christian Hammond, Catherine Haughton, Kedar Howard, Lori Ihle, Ben Jones, Larry Jones, Clay Kearley, Michelle Leach, Pam Lewis, Eddie Loving, Patty Lowe, Janet Martin, John and Betty McKittrick, Courtney Oldendorf, James Payne, Rochelle Pettus, Cissi Reagan, Sarah Rodgers, Derek Saidak, Trish Seiber, LaTanya Upton, Harriet Walker, Melanie Walsh, David Watkins, Stacey Wright, Tom Wright, and Gil Young. Without their enthusiasm and dedication, this book would not have been possible. Lastly, our thanks to the ORNL FCU Board of Directors for supporting our passion project to commemorate the credit union’s proud history and the important role it plays in our community, to our members, and within the credit union industry as a whole. Their dedication to the organization is unmatched.

NOTE from the author In the time I spent working on this book, it became immediately clear that—of all its assets— the people who work for ORNL FCU are its greatest treasure. Their passion for their work, the organization, their members, and each other is what makes this place truly special. Writing this has been a joy, and I’ve sincerely appreciated the opportunity.

Susie Riley

6 | 75 YEARS ORNL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION