Bantz has been the leader of the credit union since 1989 when she was hired to serve as manager of what was then known as Portland Forge Employees FCU. At the time, the credit union served consumers from five employer groups, including the Portland Forge and Jay County Schools, and it held $4 million in assets with six employees and one office. Today, CrossRoads Financial FCU (CFFCU) holds more than $57 million in assets, has over 9,000 members and employs 29 people. Bantz has guided the credit union through a name change, transformation of the main office, expansion of the branch network to its current four full-service offices and met community needs with the award-winning program—Tackling Hunger.
“As our membership and credit union grew over the years, it’s not because the population increased. It was because we offer a good alternative to financial services the people had access to, and the word spread as we met their financial needs,” commented Bantz. “We have always strived to take care of members and provide the products and services to meet their ever-changing needs.”
Prior to her credit union career, Bantz served as Controller and Executive Vice President at the former Citizens Bank in Portland. During her leadership at CFFCU, there have been many financial relationships developed. Bantz has been a confidante and advisor, she has assisted members of the community with accounts, loans, teaching and building trust for their future growth. Bantz has led by example and been an active part of the community, providing leadership on numerous committees and boards, including United Way of Jay County, Jay County Chamber, Rotary Club, Girls Club, Jay Community Center, JRDS, Jay County Hospital and IU Health Jay.
The CFFCU board of directors has been working with Bantz to plan a smooth transition in naming a successor. “Janet more than deserves our gratitude for her tireless work on behalf of the credit union and our members. Though she will be greatly missed by everyone, she will be leaving the credit union in excellent condition,” said Joday Auker, CFFCU Board Chair. “Her successor has been approved by the board and will be announced at a later date.”
Janet Bantz.