8/19/2009

Members Cooperative Credit Union (MCCU) announces Steven Raj as its new Mortgage Manager, who will lead the full service mortgage department to a new level of success with a streamlined approach to lending and an emphasis on building and sustaining community and business relationships.

Steve brings a vast array of financial and leadership experience to his role with MCCU. A native of the Iron Range, he graduated from the University of Minnesota-Duluth and has over 14 years of lending experience. He has held positions of Vice President for the area’s first independent mortgage company and President of Northern Operations for Apollo Home Mortgage Corporation. He is educated in FHA, VA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

“We’re fortunate and excited to have Steve join our team,” said Teri Tangen, Vice President of Lending at MCCU. “His knowledge, experience, and community connections are valuable assets that will strengthen the service we provide to our members and fulfill our mission to be the primary financial influence in their lives.”

Steve is a current member and founder of Twin Ports Business Builders, a member of the Duluth Area Association of Realtors, and a past member of the Minnesota Army National Guard for nine years.

Members Cooperative Credit Union is the area’s largest credit union, with over 31,000 members and branches in Duluth (Spirit Valley, Central and Miller Hill), Cloquet, Aitkin and McGregor.

Members Cooperative Credit Union announces Laura Battisti as its new Financial Education Specialist, who will spearhead a company-wide initiative to improve the financial health of its members, youth, and the community.

Laura’s experience in teaching and passion for empowering others through educational seminars will play a core role in the credit union’s mission to become the primary, positive financial influence in its members’ lives. Laura feels that in this financially troubled time, she has the unique opportunity and crucial responsibility to help others make educated decisions that will help to secure their financial futures.

A native of the Northland, Laura holds a B.A. in Elementary Education from the College of St. Scholastica and has worked with a variety of youth, including at-risk and special needs students in Florida and southern Minnesota.

“We are eager to have Laura on board,” said Tammy Heikkinen, MCCU President/CEO. “Her fresh approach and passion for financial education will prove an invaluable service to our member/owners, the community, and especially with our area’s schools. We’ve found that youth are eager to learn about the world of finance, and we’re happy to provide this much-needed service to our community, free of charge.”

Laura replaces Jeff Bruch, who was promoted to Branch Manager of the Duluth - Central and Duluth - Miller Hill offices.

Laura’s educational curriculum includes topics on saving and investing, building a basic budget, hidden college costs, buying a car, and more. For additional information and a complete listing of financial education offerings, as well as information on youth programs, go to www.membersccu.org. To schedule a training session for your classroom or group, contact Laura at 218-625-8835 or email laura.battisti@membersccu.org.

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