The board of directors at Cornerstone Community FCU in Lockport have named Eric M. Hepkins as the credit union’s next CEO. Hepkins will take over for Ann M. Hood, who will be retiring on Feb. 28 after 34 years with the credit union.

“The board and I are delighted that Eric will be joining us to lead Cornerstone,” said Board Chairman David Nemi. “His background, experience and education will make him an excellent addition to our management team. He will be a great leader for our employees.”

Hepkins is a Western New York native with over 17 years of experience in the financial services industry. Within the industry, he has held senior roles in technology, strategic transformation, lending and retail distribution.

“I am incredibly honored, and deeply humbled, to join the Cornerstone family,” said Hepkins, “Cornerstone really has a rare combination of a passion for family, amazingly talented people, and an undying dedication to member service. The organization has had outstanding leadership over the past 20 years and is well-positioned to continue building on a model of sustainable, community-focused growth.”

Hepkins holds a bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York College at Geneseo and an MBA from the University at Buffalo.