ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.-The $4.9 billion Nusenda FCU has named Michelle Dearholt CEO, The Business Journals reported.
Dearholt, currently executive vice president of operations, will begin her new role on March 1, 2025.
Dearholt will succeed Joe Christian, who announced he will retire at the end of February.
Christian joined the credit union as a data processing manager in 1986. During his tenure with Nusenda, he has held several leadership roles including chief administrative officer, chief operations officer and executive vice president of operations. He was named president and CEO in 2019, The Business Journals said.
"Over my 39-year journey with Nusenda, I've witnessed the transformative power of a financial cooperative," Christian said. "Working alongside like-minded individuals, we've achieved remarkable milestones. Our true success lies in our unwavering commitment to our members and the communities we serve and the positive impact we've made together.”
Dearholt has worked at Nusenda Credit Union for 20 years. She took over her current role from Christian when he became CEO in 2019.
"It's hard to summarize the impact of Joe's legacy at Nusenda," Ralph Wallace, Nusenda board chair, said. "He leaves the credit union well-positioned for the future thanks to his innovative and community-focused initiatives. During his five years as CEO, the credit union grew by over $2.5 billion in assets, added 11 branches and expanded into Las Cruces and El Paso, Texas."
Knothe To Lead Marine CU
In La Crosse, Wis., the $1-billion Marine Credit Union has appointed Tom Knothe president and CEO, effective in January. Knothe succeeds Darrick Weeks, who has accepted a new career opportunity closer to his family, the CU stated.
Knothe, a long-standing member of the Marine Credit Union board, brings over 16 years of experience with the credit union, including serving as interim CEO in 2021, the CU said.
“Tom’s commitment to our employees, members, and communities, paired with his extensive experience, makes him the perfect leader to continue advancing our mission,” said Board Chair Anne Snow.
“Our commitment to community engagement and support remains unwavering,” said Knothe. “I am excited to build on our recent successes and continue prioritizing what matters most—our members and the communities we serve.”
Under Week’s guidance, Marine Credit Union has achieved several milestones, including being recognized as a Great Place to Work and implementing a new strategic plan, the CU said.
“I am grateful for the progress we’ve made together and the strong foundation we’ve built,” said Weeks. “I leave Marine Credit Union with pride and gratitude for the many accomplishments and relationships formed during my tenure.”