As a dedicated member of the New York Credit Union Association’s board of directors, Brad Calhoun, President and CEO of Teachers Federal Credit Union, brings a wealth of experience and passion to the credit union movement. With a focus on member-centric services and community engagement, Brad is driving innovation and shaping a brighter future for credit unions in New York.
Can you share a brief introduction about yourself, your background, and your professional journey?
I serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of Teachers Federal Credit Union, one of the nation’s largest credit unions, serving more than 470,000 members across the United States. Since joining Teachers Federal Credit Union in 2019, I’ve been able to evolve the organization, placing a strong emphasis on transforming experiences for employees and members, focusing on the safety and soundness of the organization, and investing in product development and digital growth. Under my leadership, the credit union grew from $7.2 billion in assets to $9.8 billion in assets and expanded its growth strategies to reach all Americans across the United States. With over 29 years of leadership experience in the financial services industry, I previously served as Chief Retail and Marketing Officer at First Tech Federal Credit Union. At First Tech, I was an integral part of the organization’s transformation and growth. I oversaw a number of major marketing initiatives as well as spearheaded the redesign and strategy for all branch locations, transforming the member experience while simultaneously creating greater member value. I also held several roles during my 18-year career at Bank of America, including Area Executive and Senior Vice President for the bank’s Pacific Northwest Region. Having worked in the credit union industry for the last 12 years of my professional career, I’ve dedicated myself to credit union advocacy and furthering the credit union reach. I currently serve on the Board of Directors of the Association, providing the Association with strategic guidance and ensuring credit unions continue to improve the way they serve their members. Passionate about supporting the community, in 2023 I founded the Annual Teachers Federal Credit Union Golf Tournament, benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals – the first of its kind in the Northeast. The golf tournament raised over $1,000,000 in its first two years and proceeds benefited children’s hospitals across the country. I also play an active role in supporting The American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and served on the Board of Junior Achievement, Washington, and Junior Achievement, New York for a total of 6 years. I hold a B.S. in Business Administration from California Baptist University. My recent professional awards include: American Banker Innovator of the Year, 2024; American Business Awards Gold Stevie Award for Achievement in Management, 2024; Long Island Business News Influencer in Banking and Finance, 2024; Long Island Business News Executive Circle, 2023; Long Island Harold Top Chief Officers, 2023; Long Island Business News Powerful Influencer in Banking and Finance, 2022
What drew you to the credit union industry?
What initially drew me to the credit union industry is the deeply rooted mission of “people helping people.” Unlike other financial institutions, credit unions are built on the idea of service over profit. The focus isn’t just on transactions; it’s on building relationships and improving the financial well-being of our members and communities. That sense of purpose—knowing that every decision we make is about empowering individuals, providing financial education, and helping people have a brighter financial future. Playing a role in the lives of our members–life moments large and small–resonated with me from the start.
Credit unions are uniquely positioned to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our members by offering more than just financial services; we provide guidance, education, and support that can truly change lives. Being part of an industry that prioritizes people, and gives back to the community is both inspiring and fulfilling. It aligns perfectly with my personal values and continues to motivate me every day.
What motivated you to join the Association’s board of directors?
Joining the Association’s Board of Directors was an opportunity that aligned perfectly with my passion for inspiring and motivating positive change within the credit union movement. What truly motivated me was the chance to further expand the reach of credit unions across New York State, ensuring that more people experience the unique benefits of credit unions’ member-centric model.
Serving on the board allows me to be part of a broader effort to enhance how we, as an industry, serve our members—by driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and advocating for policies that protect and strengthen credit unions. I see this role as an opportunity to bring fresh ideas to the table, improve member service overall, and ensure that credit unions remain agile and responsive to the evolving financial needs of the communities we serve.
In your view, what makes the Association distinct from other financial associations?
In my view, what truly sets the Association apart from other financial associations is its unwavering commitment to advancing the unique mission of credit unions in one of the largest and most complex states in the country. New York is home to a vast and varied population, with communities that range from urban centers to rural areas, each with its own distinct financial needs and challenges. The Association embraces this complexity and works tirelessly to ensure that credit unions across the state are equipped to serve their members effectively, no matter where they are.
Why are credit unions important to New Yorkers and the broader community?
Credit unions are essential to New Yorkers, especially given the high cost of living in our state. In an environment where financial pressures can weigh heavily on individuals and families, credit unions provide a crucial lifeline. We offer member-first services that focus on helping people—not solely generating profits. This means lower fees, competitive rates, and personalized financial products designed to improve the financial well-being of our members.
What role do you believe a board member plays in the success of the Association?
Association board members bring a variety of perspectives, expertise, and a deep commitment to the credit union philosophy of “people helping people.” Our job is to advocate for the interests of credit unions across the state, ensure sound governance, and provide guidance on critical issues facing our industry. The board is critical in shaping the future of credit unions so that we can better serve members and communities. Ultimately, a strong, engaged board is essential for the Association to drive innovation, advocacy, and growth for all credit unions in New York.
What Association initiatives or projects are you most excited about?
I’m incredibly excited about the Association’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the credit union movement across New York State. Whether it’s supporting small credit unions that serve as the backbone of their local communities or helping larger institutions amplify their impact, these initiatives ensure that we all continue to deliver on the promise of people helping people. I’m particularly enthusiastic about the Association’s advocacy work at both the state and national levels. Ensuring that regulations support and protect the unique value proposition of credit unions is critical. By championing legislation that allows us to serve our members more effectively and advocating for policies that uphold our principles, the Association is helping us build a stronger, more resilient future for all credit unions and the communities we serve.
What advice would you give to someone considering a board position with the Association?
When considering a board position with the Association, it’s essential to actively network with leaders across the industry. By engaging with various leaders across New York credit unions, you gain a deeper understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by different credit union populations. This holistic perspective ensures that we, as board members, are effectively addressing the needs of all credit unions – regardless of size or geographic location. It’s about embodying the credit union philosophy of ‘people helping people’ by ensuring our strategic decisions and advocacy efforts are truly representative and impactful for everyone we serve.
In what ways has your experience on the board been rewarding?
Serving on the board has been incredibly rewarding because it offers a broader perspective on the challenges credit unions face at both the state and national levels, across all asset sizes. It’s an opportunity to collaborate with dedicated leaders who are passionate about our movement and to contribute to shaping the future of the industry. This experience has deepened my understanding of the needs of our members across the state and empowered me to advocate more effectively for policies and initiatives that support credit unions of every size, ensuring we all succeed.
Why should someone consider joining the Association board or becoming more involved with credit unions in general?
Joining the Association board or getting more involved with credit unions offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on people’s lives. As a board member, you can influence the direction of the credit union movement, advocate for policies that benefit our communities, and ensure that we remain true to our mission of ‘people helping people.’ It’s a chance to collaborate with like-minded leaders, gain a deeper understanding of the diverse needs of credit unions across the state, and contribute to the growth and success of an industry that prioritizes financial well-being over profit. For anyone passionate about community service and financial empowerment, there’s no better place to make a difference than the Association board.
Outside of Association and your professional life, what are some of your passions or hobbies?
Outside of the Association and my professional life, I am extremely passionate about giving back to the community. I dedicate my time volunteering with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals as well as the American Cancer Society. I am also the proud father to three girls, so I make a point to prioritize spending time with my family. My wife and I love to golf and enjoy the outdoors, especially the beach! I’m grateful for every moment I get to give back to the community and spend with the people I love most.
What’s one book or resource you’d recommend to someone looking to understand the world of credit unions better?
While not necessarily about the world of credit unions, I highly recommend all leaders to read All In by Adrian Gostick. It delves into building high-performance cultures and engaging teams, which is incredibly relevant for understanding the collaborative and member-focused nature of credit unions.
Share a fun fact or a memorable anecdote related to your time at the Association.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my time with the Association has been the opportunity to connect with leaders across the credit union industry, discussing challenges we are facing, and ways we can partner and win together. We all want what is best for our members and communities, and that is really something special.
Brad’s leadership and commitment to the credit union movement are truly inspiring. As a dedicated member of the Association board, he is driving innovation, advocating for members, and shaping a brighter future for credit unions in New York. We are grateful for his contributions and look forward to the continued positive impact he will have on the credit union movement.