Peninsula Credit Union welcomed members, volunteers, board members, and team members to its 2026 Annual Meeting on Thursday, April 23, at the Belfair Branch. The gathering offered an opportunity to reflect on a strong year for the credit union, recognize the people who make Peninsula’s work possible, and look ahead to an exciting new chapter in digital banking.
Board Chair John Bolender opened the meeting with comments focused on Peninsula’s long-term strength, community commitment, and continued investment in the future. As Peninsula moves further into its tenth decade of service, the credit union remains focused on responsible growth, sound governance, and helping members build financial well-being.
The meeting included reports from the Supervisory Committee and Hispanic Advisory Council. Mendy Harlow, Supervisory Committee Chair along with the newest Supervisory Committee member, Exhtep Gaspar, shared that Peninsula continues to operate in a safe and sound manner, supported by strong internal controls, audit oversight, and a commitment to accountability. Claudia Suastegui, Board Liaison for the Hispanic Advisory Council, shared updates on the Council’s work to help Peninsula better understand and serve Hispanic members and community partners through culturally responsive service, language access, and trust-building.
Members present also voted to approve renewed three-year terms for board members John Bolender and Lisa Perry. Their continued service reflects Peninsula’s commitment to experienced, member-focused leadership.
President and CEO Jim Morrell shared highlights from Peninsula’s 2025 Annual Report, including continued membership growth, strong financial performance, and increased member satisfaction. Peninsula now serves approximately 21,500 members, with membership growing at twice the rate of other credit unions across the five counties it serves. The credit union also saw its Net Promoter Score increase from 60.5 to 66.5, a sign of continued progress in improving the member experience.
A special highlight of the meeting was “The Next Act in Digital Banking,” a presentation introducing members to Peninsula’s upcoming digital banking upgrade and upcoming new app, MyPCU. Marketing Director Billy Thomas opened the segment in a playful nod to tech keynotes — even wearing the iconic black turtleneck and tennis shoes — before welcoming Chief Experience Officer Kyle Lauderdale to demonstrate the new app live for members in attendance. The demonstration offered a first look at new digital tools designed to make banking easier, more secure, and more accessible when the upgraded platform launches in July 2026.
Throughout the evening, Peninsula also took time to recognize the members who attended, including a special shoutout to member Tony, who traveled from Port Townsend to join the meeting. Guests enjoyed appetizers from Wild & Woodsy Catering, door prizes, and time connecting with Peninsula team members, board members, and fellow members.
“Peninsula Credit Union exists because of people — our members, our team, our volunteers, and the communities we serve,” said Jim Morrell, President and CEO. “This year’s Annual Meeting was a wonderful reminder of that connection. We are proud of where we have been, grateful for the trust our members place in us, and excited for what comes next.”
As Peninsula Credit Union looks toward the future, its focus remains clear: listening to members, investing responsibly, expanding access, and continuing to provide personal, dependable financial service throughout the communities it serves.
