Testimonies

What do STAR and MERIT users say about the programs?

I started working in the Star and Merit program almost a year ago and have learned a tremendous amount of information from the program. The program brings thing more to reality since there are so many real-life examples used for everything. I believe that without this program, it would be very difficult to teach everyone the different aspects that we encounter every day and the operations of other departments that one would normally not work in. The Star and Merit program also lets you see what you want to works towards and what department you would like to work in more efficiently. I started out on the teller line, and I now currently work in the Information Service department, mostly due to what I learned in the program, was very intrigued with the behind the scenes aspect of helping members. Our credit union utilizes the Star and Merit program to broaden our horizons and our capabilities in the credit union.

Courtney Lockhart, Associate in the Information Services Department
Belco Community Credit Union, Pennsylvania
Asset Size: $200.7M

I think the STAR books are wonderful in helping to learn knowledge not generally covered in an everyday type setting inside your credit union. We use this series by completing the first set of books generally right after the ninety-day qualifying period is over. Anything beyond this first set is completed at whatever speed each employee feels comfortable. I, personally, have learned several things that I have not come across in my four years of financial institution work. I have also learned ways that I could've better handled a situation and now know how to effectively handle the same situation in the future. I particularly like the examples given of specific credit unions and their experiences. This gives me, as a student, the chance to imagine how different situations or applications could be presented in a real life setting. Out of everything in your entire program, those real applications are what I like the best.

Tina Lynch, Member Service Representative
Credit Union of Johnson County. Kansas
Assets: $157M

The STAR Program is used in our Credit Union for staff training and it is integrated into our job descriptions. I enjoy the STAR Modules and have obtained a great deal of useful information. They are easily understood and have been a great benefit in my employment to further my career with Laurel Federal Credit Union

Debbie Rideout, Financial Services Representative
Laurel Federal Credit Union, Montana
Assets: $62M

We find the STAR program very useful for our crewmembers. We allow our crewmembers to participate in what we call an Upgrade program. This program allows participants to gain a full pay grade increase by meeting various criteria and maintaining it each year. Part of the criteria is continuing educational credits. The STAR program is one way they can earn their education credits. Our crewmembers utilize the online STAR modules which they find convenient and informative. We have estimated that in the last year our crewmembers spent around 1080 hours taking STAR programs. There are other alternatives that would fill their education credit requirements but they choose the STAR program more than any others.

Michelle Truman, Training Manager
FAIRWIND Credit Union, Florida
Assets: $845M

The STAR program has provided me with an overview of the various functions of the credit union. It has allowed me to educate my self in areas that I’m not fully knowledgeable and that I may not use on a day-to-day basis. Since I work in Member Service which includes but is not limited to tellering procedures and account maintenance I may not necessarily be involved with posting of gl’s or loan procedures. After completing the STAR books for Accounting and Lending I understand each departments functions and can fully perform my job. As the Call Center Representative, the STAR program has allowed me to assist our members as a full service center to fulfill our mission, “Call Federal Credit Union is committed to being the full service primary institution of its members-owners by providing friendly, efficient services and products while maintaining financial strength and integrity”. I think the Star program is one that should be a requirement not an option. It’s a tool that will increase and promote knowledgeable staff for any credit union to its greatest potential.

Tammy M. Johnson,Call Center Member Service Representative
Call Federal Credit Union, Virginia
Assets: $200K

The STAR program was convenient. I could read the material online either during slow times at work or at home. The material that is covered in the STAR program is informational. I covered some of the programs that is not directly related to my job, just so that I could have knowledge of the different departments in our credit union. I am thankful for my credit union for allowing the employees to learn through the STAR program.

Tanya Plemens, Financial Service Officer
Georgia Federal Credit Union, Georgia
Assets: $292M

The MERIT program is a wonderful tool for employees who are expressing their interest in management. These books help explore the different areas of management. The information is given in a way that expresses the true reasons for becoming part of the management team. It is encouraging and helpful by giving life examples and ways to handle those situations. This is especially helpful for employees who are thinking of taking that next step into management. It truly gives a sense of what is expected from a team leader. Our Credit Union uses these books as an effective way to continue education after the Star Program has been completed. The employee must be recommended by their Supervisor before starting on the MERIT Program.

Amanda Burnett, Member Service Representative III / Loan Officer
Credit Union of Johnson County, Kansas
Asset Size: $157M

I think the MERIT program is wonderful. It’s a great tool in learning some of the ins and outs of management. It also helps me train for a management position when they become available.

Patty Foster, Member ServiceIII/Loan Representative
Credit Union of Johnson County, Kansas
Assets: $158M

The MERIT program is comprehensive and easy to understand. You will find the topics varied and relevant to today's world.

Doug Christy, Branch Manager
Credit Union of Johnson County, Kansas
Assets: $158M

The MERIT Program has truly been a wonderful learning tool. I feel I have really expanded my education through this program. The knowledge that I have gained from these courses has really helped me to better understand the different aspects of my own job as well as the jobs of my co- workers. Also, the fact that these courses can be taken at your own convenience has really been a bonus. Our President and Board members have truly encouraged each employee to take advantage of this opportunity.

Kathy Lorick, Loan Administrator
Carolina Collegiate FCU, South Carolina
Assets: $50M

The MERIT courses have proven to be a great asset in developing my management skills. My people skills have improved greatly by taking the communication courses. The books are easy to understand and you pick the courses that are practical to your situation. If you only take away one little nugget from each course, it's worth it.

Donna Davis, NTX Branch Manager
Eckerd Credit Union, Florida
Assets: $48M