Kendall Foster, CEO of Scenic Community Credit Union in Chattanooga, will retire on Friday, May 3. Here’s a Q&A in honor of his 37-year credit union career.
How long did you work within the banking/credit union industry?
I have worked in the credit union industry for 37 years and have been an employee at Scenic Community Credit Union for all those years. I joined the organization in 1986 as controller and became CEO in 1996. This has been a journey that I would not trade for anything.
Looking back on your career, what has been your most rewarding accomplishment?
I believe the accomplishment I am most proud of is expanding our field of membership to include the six-county Chattanooga Metropolitan Statistical Area. This led to our name change from Dupont to Scenic Community Credit Union and allowed us to expand our footprint and serve more members in the Chattanooga area.
What propelled you to stay within the credit union industry?
I feel very fortunate that my career brought me to this movement and not just to some industry. Our movement’s only task is taking care of the financial needs of our members. I have seen Scenic Community help families save their homes from foreclosure and help members down on their luck, purchase a vehicle just to get to work. Also being able to be around like-minded individuals who are willing to help other credit unions in need – even if that need is just to bounce ideas off.
What advice do you have for young professionals?
My advice to young professionals would be—just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. You will have many opportunities to help your members and your co-workers—take those opportunities to build individuals up any way you can and not close the door on someone just because you can!
What’s next for you? What are you most looking forward to in retirement?
As I step into retirement, I look forward to spending more time with my family and grandchildren. I plan to work on some bucket list items, which will include some travel. I do not know what the retirement world holds for me, but I am excited to find out!
