Old-School Values, Modern Banking: How WCU Credit Union Is Winning Member Loyalty with Steve Determan

WCU Credit Union might be small, but under the leadership of CEO Steve Determan, it’s making a big impact.

In this episode of Nest Egg Narratives, Steve shares how his team balances old-school member service with modern digital banking—and how that’s driving loyalty and growth.

You’ll hear why he built a hands-on financial literacy program from scratch, how he prioritizes tech upgrades on a tight budget, and what it really means to serve members at every life stage.

It’s a powerful story of leadership, values, and real-world impact from one of Alabama’s most community-centered credit unions.

📝 Topics Covered:

• The origin of Steve’s passion for financial literacy (and how he teaches it)

• How WCU built 8–12 week financial education programs from scratch

• Why budgeting lessons are failing—and what to teach instead

• How small credit unions can prioritize tech without huge budgets

• Member loyalty stories that prove community > convenience

• What it really means to serve members at every life stage

  
  

Whether you’re a credit union executive, an emerging leader, or just curious how small shops punch above their weight, this conversation is packed with practical insights and human moments.

🧠 Key Takeaways

• “Your first budget will probably fail—and that’s okay. You learn and move forward.”

• Students in WCU’s program have already opened 401(k)s and asked about loans before graduating high school.

• Teaching financial literacy isn’t about theory—it’s about action.

• Building credit early opens doors to homeownership, education, and stability.

• Long-tenured employees build trust and institutional memory that fuels member loyalty.

• Prioritizing one or two tech upgrades can modernize a credit union’s image overnight.

  
  

💬 Memorable Quotes

“Credit unions aren’t just financial institutions. We’re financial partners in people’s lives.” — Steve Determan

“Your first budget will probably fail—and that’s okay. You learn and move forward.” — Steve Determan

“Credit unions aren’t just financial institutions. We’re financial partners in people’s lives.” — Steve Determan

Connect with Steve Determan on LinkedIn.

Nest Egg Narratives is brought to you by Ostrich, where our mission is to ensure the next generation is the most financially secure. We help credit unions connect with younger members through engaging financial literacy tools, programming, and insights. Learn more at getostrich.com.