COLUMBIA, MD (June 10, 2022) — The MD|DC Credit Union Association has recognized Spectra Credit Union CEO Kristin Shultz for outstanding leadership with its 2022 Professional of the Year award.
Shultz has successfully guided Spectra CU through a transformative year. She kept the credit union on a strategic course in 2021, launching a new brand identity, introducing multiple growth initiatives, and prioritizing community outreach. All of this in the middle of a global pandemic.
“Kristin has really helped position Spectra Credit Union for growth by taking on several major projects in the last year,” said Dr. Mary Kappus, Board Chairperson, Spectra Credit Union. “Under Kristin’s leadership, we rebranded to Spectra, launched a newly redesigned website, a vibrant new logo and opened a new full-service branch — all to better serve our members. Congratulations Kristin. I am proud to be a part of the team that helped accomplish all of this.”
Other initiatives included relocating the entire technology infrastructure to a more stable and secure environment, launching a new website, an indirect home equity program, an online business lending platform, and completing a credit card portfolio conversion.
“Through her innovation, her ability to take risks, she has led this credit union to a place we’ve never been and set us up very nicely for growth,” said Jennifer Young, Director of HR, Spectra Credit Union.
Community service is a priority for Shultz. Under her leadership, Spectra CU hired its first community outreach manager and launched a program to provide employees with 40 hours of paid time annually to volunteer in the community.
“Last year alone we helped more than 4,000 individuals, more than 1,000 families, and donated 1,600 pounds of food,” said Kate Brennan, COO, Spectra Credit Union. “All of this through Kristin’s volunteer time off program and with the help of 33 non-profit partners.”
Believing that satisfied, happy employees will provide exceptional member services, Shultz has focused on building a positive and engaging work culture, embracing DEI as a core credit union value, and offering an above-market compensation and benefits package.
“Kristin has been able to accomplish so much because she has assembled a strong, motivated and competent team,” said Dr. Richard Bevilacqua, Board Member. “That is a testament to her leadership abilities.”
Leading by example, Shultz volunteers for several organizations. She serves as Secretary on the Credit Union Miracle Day Board, which sponsors the Cherry Blossom 10 mile run in Washington, D.C. each year in support of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. She also serves at the national level as a member of the CUNA Volunteer Leadership Council and as a member of the Filene Think Tank.
A video tribute honoring Kristin Shultz as the 2022 Professional of the Year can be viewed here:
MD|DC Credit Union Association CEO John Bratsakis and Spectra Credit Union CEO Kristin Shultz
MD|DC Credit Union Association President/CEO John Bratsakis, congratulated Noll on his recognition: “Congratulations Brett! Your leadership and dedication have not only advanced FedChoice Federal Credit Union but also enhanced the lives of its members and the broader community. Your recognition as the 2024 Professional of the Year is a testament to your outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment to financial empowerment.”
Michelle Byrnie-Parker
SVP/Chief Public Affairs Officer
mparker@mddccua.org
