In this installment of our Director Spotlight series, we’re thrilled to feature Maggie Pope, the dynamic CEO of Mountain Valley Federal Credit Union. Born and raised in New York State, Celebrating over a decade of leadership, Maggie has been at the helm of Mountain Valley’s impressive growth, expanding from one branch to four and boosting assets from $12M to $54M. Under her leadership, the credit union now proudly serves nearly 5,000 members. Learn all about Maggie and her journey!

Can you share a brief introduction about yourself, your background, and your professional journey?
I grew up in a small town in the North Country–AuSable Forks–I attended Catholic school during my elementary years and attended public school for my high school years, graduating in 1987. In high school, my interest in business and financial courses helped me decide my career path. I began my career working in the banking industry and eventually had the opportunity to join the credit union movement.

In 2005 I was lucky to join the credit union industry and today, I celebrate 14 years as CEO of Mountain Valley Federal Credit Union. During this time, I have had the opportunity with an amazing team–my board of directors, supervisory committee and staff–to grow our credit union from one branch to four and $12M in assets to $54M, serving almost 5,000 very loyal and amazing members.

Personally, I feel that being brought up by loving, caring parents helped me carry out and embrace the philosophy of “People Helping People!” I love going to work every day!

What drew you to the credit union industry?
The philosophy of ‘People Helping People’ is the main reason. I was brought up to always be willing to help, to listen, and to guide people to do the right thing. I love going to work every day where I make a difference in people’s lives.

What motivated you to join the Association’s board of directors?
As a small credit union CEO, I felt it was important to join and to be the voice of my peers for our asset size. I respect our past and current board members and felt that by joining the board, I could gain more experience to help my credit union grow and understand better what role our association plays in the success of our credit unions. The Association Board of Directors is truly dedicated and loyal to the credit union movement.

In your view, what makes the Association distinct from other financial associations?
I very much enjoy working with everyone at the Association–their commitment to helping credit unions in all aspects of our business is outstanding. They truly do convey the “People Helping People” philosophy of the credit union movement.

Why are credit unions important to New Yorkers and the broader community?
I feel credit unions are important in a way that they provide financial services to our communities in a more caring way. Sometimes members need to be given a chance–maybe it’s a second or even a first chance at obtaining a loan or other service that they could not get somewhere else. Credit Unions by nature are there for everyone!

What role do you believe a board member plays in the success of the Association?
I believe every board member, whether you are from a larger asset credit union or a smaller one, has different ideas, experiences and mindsets that can help the Association understand what we all need or want to accomplish at our organization.

Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your tenure on the board?
There have been so many amazing experiences in my short time as a board member–however, I feel that attending EXCEL events year after year always brings me back to why I love being a part of the credit union family! I feel every credit union professional should attend an Excel event at least once in their career.

What Association initiatives or projects are you most excited about?
I serve as FOCUS NY Chairperson and really enjoy the work we do for all our credit unions. From lobbying with our legislators in NYS to attending GAC in Washington–I really enjoy the work we do behind the scenes.

What advice would you give to someone considering a board position with the Association?
I would say go for it – you will learn so much from everyone on the board. I also feel it is a way of giving back – continuing the “People Helping People” philosophy.

In what ways has your experience on the board been rewarding?
Being on the board has allowed me to meet so many dedicated credit union professionals. Working with the entire board has made me realize that even though we all come from different asset sizes and communities demographically, we all share some of the same obstacles but we also share similar accomplishments on a different level.

Why should someone consider joining the Association board or becoming more involved with credit unions in general?
If you are a caring and outgoing person, the credit union movement is for you–being involved will help instill the positive things you bring to members’ lives. Like the old saying, “IF you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.” This is exactly how I feel about working at my credit union and being an Association Board Member.

Outside of the Association and your professional life, what are some of your passions or hobbies?
The first passion I have is my family–I come from a large family–my immediate family consists of my parents, my son and son-in-law along with my two grand pups. I have a twin sister (yes, we are identical), my brother and sister who are also twins (22 months younger) and my little sister (who had a set of fraternal twin girls).

I love cooking, traveling and most of all riding my motorcycle. I have had a Harley Davidson for more than 25 years and the feeling of riding is just exhilarating. My first HD was a small 883 Sportster. Over the years I have had a Street Glide, Electra Glide and now a Heritage Softail which is my favorite.

Another passion I have is community volunteering. I serve on other various boards and volunteer at many events. Most recently, my family has been a huge supporter of the Alzheimer’s Association, because my dad was diagnosed several years ago. We are active in the “Ride to Remember” and raising funds for his assisted living home. A home that takes amazing care of him and my mom. Giving back is certainly a way of life for me.

What’s one book or resource you’d recommend to someone looking to understand the world of credit unions better?
If someone is already in the credit union movement, I would say attend CUNA Management School. I am a 2010 graduate, and it was a major turning point in my career. It is a must, in my opinion, if you are thinking of expanding your career!

Share a fun fact or a memorable anecdote related to your time at the Association.
Most recently, at State GAC, as FOCUS NY committee chair, we had a “day of giving” with a goal of $25,000. With help from the Association and fellow credit union staff and contributors, we were able to meet that goal. It was a great day for FOCUS NY!

From our insightful conversation with Maggie Pope, it’s clear that her journey is not just about numbers, but about the commitment to the ‘People Helping People’ philosophy. Her leadership at Mountain Valley FCU stands as a testament to the power of community and the potential of dedication. Maggie’s story reminds us all that true leadership is built on the foundation of care, vision, and relentless pursuit of positive impact.