TULLAHOMA, Tenn.– Ascend Federal Credit Union has renamed its corporate headquarters building in honor of former President and CEO Caren Gabriel.
Ascend’s board recently adopted a resolution to recognize Gabriel by naming the Ascend Federal Credit Union corporate headquarters facility the Caren Carden Gabriel Building. The unveiling ceremony and reception for the naming dedication was held with board members and employees in attendance.
“The board of directors is grateful to Caren and wanted to recognize her contributions to the credit union, its employees and its members,” said Ascend Chairman Mark Rigney. “Caren was an exceptional leader at Ascend and her significant achievements will now be permanently honored in Tullahoma and remembered across Middle Tennessee.”
“Caren’s vision for Ascend resulted in many successful accomplishments, including one of her most treasured, the build of this headquarters facility in 2010,” added Ascend President and CEO Matt Jernigan. “Caren realized the need for a modernized facility, knowing it would be key to attracting and retaining talent. She created a long-lasting legacy at Ascend, which will be apparent to future Ascend employees and members.”
Gabriel joined Ascend as staff attorney in 1985 and later served as general counsel and executive vice president. She serged as CEO from January 2004 until her retirement in 2023.
Under Gabriel’s leadership, Ascend grew to more than $4 billion in assets from having $960.3 million in assets, and to 27 branches and more than 255,000 members.
“I have been, and continue to be, honored to serve Middle Tennessee’s largest credit union, its members, employees and our community,” said Gabriel. “This building dedication is a testament to the collective efforts of the incredible team I had the privilege to work with. I’m immensely grateful to Ascend and its Board of Directors for this lasting recognition.”