Press Release
After 58 "Short" Years, LFCU President Announces Retirement
Jean M. Yokum
LFCU President/CEO
On August 31, 2011, LFCU President/CEO Jean M. Yokum accomplished something virtually unheard of in today's society - serving the same organization for over 58 years.
Mrs. Yokum recently announced her intention to retire beginning July 17, 2012, during her 59th year of service to LFCU. Mrs. Yokum stated, "Fifty-eight years might seem like a long time to some, but I enjoyed and appreciated every minute. For me, it has been fifty-eight short years."
Her story of ascending from teller to CEO in a time period in which women were seldom chosen for leadership positions is legendary. Mrs. Yokum became LFCU President in 1979. Since then, LFCU's three branches with $76 million in assets have spiraled to nineteen branches with over $1.6 billion in assets. The Credit Union now serves over 180,000 members.
Mrs. Yokum is well-known for her consistent and fair leadership style, always looking out for the members' best interest, and her insistence that the credit union deliver world-class service. A humble yet passionate person, Jean's charisma, innate problem-solving skills, and pursuit of excellence allowed her to gain prominence both locally and nationally. Jean also garnered admiration for her staunch support of the military and helping LFCU to become a leading corporate citizen. She shared her skills with many, volunteering to serve on numerous local and national organizations outside LFCU such as USO of Hampton Roads, Virginia Air & Space Center, the Defense Credit Union Council and more. She pioneered the way for others by serving as the first female board 'chairman' of many organizations. Her accomplishments include being named National Association of Federal Credit Unions CEO of the Year, an induction into the Credit Union Executives Society Hall of Fame, a lifetime achievement award from the Virginia Credit Union League, and being named Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities Humanitarian of the Year.
LFCU Board Chairman Rich Biege stated, "We couldn't have asked for a better leader. Jean reflects the core values of LFCU - honesty, ethics, loyalty, accountability, and passion. She helped build an organization of over 430 dedicated employees who will continue LFCU's mission of delivering world-class service and improving lives." The credit union has activated its succession plan and will work throughout the coming year to identify the best candidates to enhance LFCU's value to members, continue the organization's successful growth, and maintain the financial stability of the Credit Union.
Reflecting on her years of service, Mrs. Yokum stated, "I thank God every day for putting me in a position where I could use my talents to help people and contribute to the success of an organization that will positively impact lives well beyond my retirement."
