SRP's Diamond Awards in Brand Awareness, New Event, and Product or Promotional Video

SRP Federal Credit Union Receives Diamond Awards Honoring Marketing Excellence

 

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North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union was among 181 credit unions nationwide recognized as winners of the prestigious Diamond Awards, an annual competition hosted by America's Credit Unions Marketing, PR & Development Council that recognizes excellence in credit union marketing.

SRP received recognition in the following categories:

  • New Event (Category’s Best winner) – “Walking with Confidence: SRP Shoe Giveaway”
  • Product or Promotional Video – “Great Stories Start Small”
  • Brand Awareness – “Spotted Program”

America’s Credit Unions Marketing, PR & Development Council announced the winners of this year’s Diamond Awards, honoring the most effective and innovative marketing campaigns across the credit union industry.

 

This year’s competition drew a record 1,481 submissions, with 181 organizations from 42 states selected as winners. In total, 330 awards were distributed, reflecting the exceptional quality of work produced by credit unions nationwide.

 

“We are incredibly honored to be recognized among the best in the credit union marketing industry. These awards reflect our team’s ongoing commitment to telling SRP Federal Credit Union’s story and uplifting the communities and members we serve,” said Shana Reid, Chief Development Officer of SRP Federal Credit Union.

SRP submitted entries that reflect the organization’s dedication to the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People.”

During the “Walking with Confidence” event, SRP board members and employees across the credit union’s branches and departments donated a new pair of shoes for every student at Oakwood-Windsor Elementary School in Aiken, SC, meeting an immediate and meaningful need for local children.

 

SRP’s “Great Stories Start Small” 60-second commercial highlights how SRP supports members through important life stages, from opening their first savings accounts and securing car loans to reaching milestones like marriage and homeownership.

 

The SRP Spotted program, recognized in the Brand Awareness category, rewards members who display an SRP sticker or magnet on their vehicle with a chance to win $100. SRP employees spot these vehicles throughout the credit union’s 10-county field of membership, engaging with members and surprising them with $100 cash.

 

“We are proud to recognize SRP Federal Credit Union and this year’s Diamond Award winners for their entries that deliver both creativity and results,” said Lorrell Bellotti, Diamond Awards Co-chair and Chief Marketing Officer at Western Vista FCU in Cheyenne, Wyoming. “These entries demonstrate an understanding of the people we serve and strategic execution that delivers measurable impact.”

Two business professionals hold Diamond Awards.
SRP Marketing and Communications Manager Josh Rhoden and SRP Chief Development Officer Shana Reid receive the Diamond Awards on behalf of SRP Federal Credit Union. The credit union's "Walking With Confidence: SRP Shoe Giveaway" event won the category's best award.

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, and provides a full range of financial services to more than 200,000 members. SRP serves the banking needs of individuals, families, and businesses across 10 counties in Georgia and South Carolina. Recognized for its commitment to member service and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and one of America’s Best Credit Unions in South Carolina by Newsweek. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

About America’s Credit Unions

America’s Credit Unions is the unified voice for not-for-profit credit unions, representing more than 95% of the industry's assets and more than 145 million members nationwide. America’s Credit Unions provides strong advocacy, resources and services to advance, empower, and protect credit unions and the people and communities they serve. For more information about America’s Credit Unions, visit AmericasCreditUnions.org.

About Councils

Councils is a member-led, collaborative community of credit union leaders providing vibrant peer interaction, new ideas, and innovation to foster professional development while advocating for the overall success of the credit union movement. There are eight Councils with a network of more than 7,000 credit union professionals. For more information, visit americascreditunions.org/councils.

 
 
SRP Federal Credit Union employees, along with SRP Board of Directors Chairman Sandra DeVoe Bland, gather outside SRP's Administrative Campus for Shred Fest.

“Shred Fest” at SRP Federal Credit Union Securely Disposes of Nearly 9 Tons of Paper

 

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North Augusta, SC – More than 550 vehicles lined up at SRP Federal Credit Union’s Administrative Campus on Saturday, March 14 for Shred Fest, a community event hosted by SRP for secure document disposal.

 

With three shred trucks from Augusta Data Storage, Shred Fest accepted, processed, and securely disposed of 17,780 pounds of unwanted documents, mail, and paperwork from participants.

Two people hold a trash bag over a bin.
Sandra DeVoe Bland, SRP Board Chairman, and Tyler Whisnant, SRP Member Service Representative, empty a bag of documents into a bin for disposal. Augusta Data Storage supplied shredding services for the event.

Employees across SRP’s branches and departments joined together to serve the community at Shred Fest. From registering visitors to loading bins with documents, 36 SRP team members dedicated their Saturday morning to ensuring the event’s success.

 

Due to the popularity of the event, SRP has scheduled two additional Shred Fest dates for 2026: May 16 and October 17.

 

“At SRP, we are guided by the credit union philosophy of ‘People Helping People.’ Shred Fest helps our members and the community prevent identity theft by securely disposing of sensitive documents,” said Josh Rhoden, Marketing and Communications Manager at SRP Federal Credit Union. “We are grateful for the opportunity to provide this important service.”

A man holds an empty trash bag and a folder labeled "TRASH" over a bin.
SRP Teller Ajay Krishnakumar helps prepare documents for secure disposal. Team members across SRP's branches and departments assisted with Shred Fest.

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, and provides a full range of financial services to more than 200,000 members. SRP serves the banking needs of individuals, families, and businesses across 10 counties in Georgia and South Carolina. Recognized for its commitment to member service and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and one of America’s Best Credit Unions in South Carolina by Newsweek. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

 
 
The green-on-white SRP logo

SRP Federal Credit Union Named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Regional Banks & Credit Unions 2026

 

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North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions 2026, reflecting SRP’s strong impact and commitment to excellence, service, and uplifting local communities.

 

The prestigious list, developed by Newsweek in partnership with Plant-A Insights Group, recognizes financial institutions that help power local economies by supporting small businesses, financing community projects, and providing reliable access to everyday banking services.

 

“More than financial service providers, credit unions are community partners, showing up in neighborhoods, participating in local initiatives, and helping strengthen the connections that bind their members together,” said Jennifer H. Cunningham, Editor-in-Chief of Newsweek.

 

Founded in 1960, SRP Federal Credit Union serves more than 200,000 members across a 10-county field of membership in Georgia and South Carolina. From providing financial education resources for community members of all ages to supporting local charitable organizations, SRP strives to embody the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People.”

 

“Being recognized in Newsweek’s America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions is a tremendous honor,” said Shana Reid, Chief Development Officer for SRP Federal Credit Union. “At SRP, we are committed to serving our members with excellence while improving lives throughout the communities we serve. This recognition reflects the dedication of our ambassadors, whose hard work and passion bring our mission to life each day. Good things are happening at SRP.”

 

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, and provides a full range of financial services to more than 200,000 members. SRP serves the banking needs of individuals, families, and businesses across 10 counties in Georgia and South Carolina. Recognized for its commitment to member service and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and one of America’s Best Credit Unions in South Carolina by Newsweek. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

 
SRP and community leaders pose for a ribbon-cutting ceremony photo in front of SRP Federal Credit Union's new Allendale, SC branch.

SRP Federal Credit Union Celebrates New Allendale, SC Branch

 

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Allendale, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union celebrated the opening of a new SRP branch in Allendale, South Carolina with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, February 18th.


Local leaders and community members joined SRP Federal Credit Union executives in commemorating the new branch location, which offers a welcoming, accessible space for financial services in the Allendale community.


At 224 Flat St. E, the SRP Allendale Branch is located at the heart of the community, offering convenient services near commercial and residential areas.


SRP Federal Credit Union is committed to making financial services accessible across its field of membership. The Allendale branch brings SRP Federal Credit Union’s total number of branch locations to 21.


SRP CEO Liz Ponder said the new branch reflects SRP’s continued growth and investment in communities like Allendale.


“This branch represents our commitment to providing stronger financial futures, expanded access to services, and a trusted place for members to manage, grow, and protect their finances,” said Ms. Ponder. “Today, we cut a ribbon. Tomorrow, we grow a legacy – together.”

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, and provides a full range of financial services to more than 200,000 members. SRP serves the banking needs of individuals, families, and businesses across 10 counties in Georgia and South Carolina. Recognized for its commitment to member service and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and one of America’s Best Credit Unions in South Carolina by Newsweek. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

 
The green-on-white SRP logo

SRP Distributes Over $4.2 Million in Loyalty Dividends

 

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North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce that its Board of Directors has approved a Loyalty Dividend to be paid across its membership. This additional dividend payout, totaling more than $4.2 million, reflects SRP’s continued financial strength and its commitment to rewarding members for their support.

 

“Serving our members is at the heart of who we are,” said Liz Ponder, CEO of SRP Federal Credit Union. “This Loyalty Dividend is a meaningful way to recognize their trust and the collective success we’ve achieved together.”

 

The Loyalty Dividend highlights SRP’s dedication to the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People.” As a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, SRP exists to serve its members rather than shareholders.

 

SRP Federal Credit Union remains committed to strengthening the financial well-being of its members and the communities it serves across the CSRA.

 

For more information about SRP Federal Credit Union and its services, please visit srpfcu.org or call 803-278-4851.

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union, headquartered in North Augusta, SC, provides financial services to over 200,000 members. Recognized for its excellence in business performance and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and honored as the 2024 Large Business of the Year by the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

Representatives of USCA and SRP Federal Credit Union prepare to cut the ribbon on the newly designed Pacer $mart hallway and classroom.

USCA and SRP Federal Credit Union Unveil New Pacer $mart Classroom

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Aiken, SC – Representatives from SRP Federal Credit Union and the University of South Carolina Aiken gathered on March 21 to celebrate the unveiling of a newly designed classroom and hallway dedicated to financial education at the university.

 

The new learning space will host Pacer $mart, a financial education program created in partnership between SRP and USCA’s School of Business Administration. Designed to equip college and high school students with financial knowledge, the program covers key personal finance topics, including budgeting, saving, credit, investing, insurance, taxes, and economics.

 

“The Pacer $mart program is a testament to the power of partnership in shaping students’ financial futures,” said Dr. Daniel J. Heimmermann, Chancellor at USCA. “This newly designed space will serve as a dynamic hub for financial learning, equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions throughout their lives.”

 

Located inside USCA’s Business & Education building, the newly branded Pacer $mart classroom will serve as a hub for guest speakers, financial success camps, and other educational initiatives. The classroom and adjoining hallway feature wall murals that incorporate university and SRP branding, along with an inspiring quote from Benjamin Franklin: “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”

 

SRP Federal Credit Union remains dedicated to the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People” by fostering financial education in the communities it serves. In addition to the Pacer $mart program, SRP provides personal financial education through seminars, financial counseling, school visits, and more.

 

“Uplifting our communities through financial education is a cornerstone of our mission at SRP,” said Liz Ponder, Interim CEO, SRP Federal Credit Union. “We are proud to partner with USC Aiken to empower students with the knowledge and skills they need for lifelong financial success.”

SRP and Augusta Technical College representatives join for a photo.

SRP employees Yvonne Meeks, Shana Reid, and Grace Helms join Augusta Technical College President Dr. Jermaine Whirl with the new SRP Affinity Debit Card for the Augusta Technical College Foundation.

Augusta Technical College and SRP Federal Credit Union Strengthen Partnership to Support Education and Economic Growth

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Augusta, GA – Augusta Technical College and SRP Federal Credit Union continue to expand their partnership, reinforcing their shared commitment to education, financial wellness, and community development. Their latest collaboration introduces the Augusta Technical College Foundation Affinity Debit Card, offering alumni, students, and supporters a new way to give back to the college with every purchase.

 

The newly launched debit card, featuring Augusta Tech’s logo and signature forest green, mint, and white color palette, is part of SRP’s Affinity Debit Card Program—an initiative that donates a portion of every transaction to local schools. Augusta Technical College is the first higher education institution to participate in the program, which has already provided over $2 million in funding to public, charter, and private high schools across eight CSRA counties.

 

Funds raised through the Augusta Technical College Affinity Debit Card will directly support the Augusta Technical College Foundation, which provides scholarships, faculty development, and resources to enhance student success.

 

“The SRP debit card program is a wonderful opportunity for the college's 30,000+ alumni and friends to support the college in their daily lives,” said Dr. Jermaine Whirl, President of Augusta Technical College. “SRP has been a terrific partner by supporting Accelerate Augusta, financial literacy, and other programs at the college. With the debit cards, they are making it easy for everyone to contribute to Augusta Tech’s continuing success.”

 

The new debit card is the latest in a series of collaborative efforts between Augusta Tech and SRP. In late 2024, the two institutions launched SRP Cougar$mart, a financial education program designed to equip students with essential money management skills. Additionally, SRP serves as the naming sponsor for Accelerate Augusta, a small business incubator and microenterprise center developed in partnership with the Downtown Development Authority of Augusta.

 

By expanding its collaboration with Augusta Technical College, SRP Federal Credit Union continues to embody the credit union philosophy of People Helping People, ensuring that students, educators, and entrepreneurs have access to the resources they need to thrive.

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SRP Federal Credit Union, headquartered in North Augusta, SC, provides financial services to over 195,000 members. Recognized for excellence in business and community impact, SRP was recently named the 2024 Large Business of the Year by both the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

SRP team members and representatives of the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce pose for a photo on stage at the chamber's annual meeting and awards gala.
Image provided by the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce.

SRP Federal Credit Union Named 2024 Large Business Partner of the Year by North Augusta Chamber of Commerce

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North Augusta, SC – The North Augusta Chamber of Commerce recognized SRP Federal Credit Union with the 2024 Large Business Partner of the Year award at its Annual Meeting and Awards Gala on March 6, 2025.

 

This prestigious award honors outstanding local business champions in North Augusta for their involvement in the Chamber and the broader community.

 

"We are thrilled to be recognized as the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Large Business Partner of the Year," said Shana Reid, Chief Development Officer of SRP Federal Credit Union. “Good things are happening at SRP, and we strive to make a difference every day in our local communities.”

 

Headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, SRP Federal Credit Union serves as a trusted financial institution and advocate for the city’s economic growth. SRP supports the Chamber of Commerce through sponsorships, event participation, and collaborative initiatives that empower the local business environment.

 

Additionally, multiple SRP team members, both past and present, have served on the North Augusta Chamber Board and its committees, strengthening the credit union’s ties to the business community. SRP team members have also participated in the Leadership North Augusta program, fostering leadership development and civic engagement.

 

SRP Federal Credit Union remains dedicated to making a meaningful impact in North Augusta and surrounding CSRA communities, a testament to SRP’s dedication to the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People.” In 2024 alone, SRP contributed nearly $1 million in donations to support community initiatives in the CSRA, and SRP team members collectively volunteered more than 6,500 hours.

 

For more information about SRP Federal Credit Union and its services, please visit srpfcu.org or contact 803-278-4851.

SRP Federal Credit Union board members and executives join local leaders to break ground on the future Allendale branch. The group is lined up behind a dirt mound with the SRP logo painted in the center. The participants are holding shovels.

SRP Federal Credit Union Breaks Ground on Future Allendale, SC Branch

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Allendale, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union marked a significant milestone with a groundbreaking ceremony for its upcoming branch in Allendale, SC. The new location, expected to be completed by winter 2025, will expand SRP’s presence in Allendale County, providing a welcoming and accessible space for individuals, families, and businesses seeking financial services.

 

“Today, we are not just breaking ground on a new building,” said Eric Jenkins, CEO of SRP Federal Credit Union, during the ceremony. “We’re laying the foundation for stronger financial futures and enhanced opportunities for all members of this community.”

 

Designed by Heavener & Associates Construction Company, the Allendale branch will feature four teller stations and four offices for Member Service Representatives to accommodate the growing needs of local members. The Augusta, GA-based firm will also oversee the construction of the facility.

 

Once completed, the Allendale branch will become SRP Federal Credit Union’s southernmost location, increasing accessibility to financial services for the community. This expansion will bring SRP’s total number of branches across Georgia and South Carolina to 21.

 

The groundbreaking ceremony brought together local leaders, community partners, and SRP Federal Credit Union’s executive team and Board of Directors, all gathered to celebrate this exciting development.

 

“This milestone would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of our team, our partners, and our members who have placed their trust in us,” said Jenkins. “We also extend our gratitude to the local government and construction team for their collaboration in bringing this vision to life.”

 

SRP Federal Credit Union remains committed to strengthening the communities it serves, and the upcoming Allendale branch is another step in its ongoing mission to provide exceptional financial services to its member-owners.

 

For more information about SRP Federal Credit Union and its services, visit www.srpfcu.org.

Louisiana Wright Sanders (left), member of the SRP Federal Credit Union Board of Directors, and Lauren Whaley, President/CEO of the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation, hold Wright Sanders's 2024 Advancing Equity Award together for a photo.

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Louisiana Wright Sanders Receives 2024 Advancing Equity Award

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North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union is thrilled to announce that Louisiana Wright Sanders, a dedicated volunteer member of the Board of Directors, has been honored with the 2024 Advancing Equity Award by the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation. This prestigious award recognizes individuals, organizations, or community partners who embody the credit union industry’s eighth Cooperative Principle of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, making proactive efforts to cultivate a sense of belonging for all.

 

The Advancing Equity Award celebrates those who implement fair and equitable policies, products, and initiatives that enhance the well-being of employees, members, and surrounding communities. Mrs. Wright Sanders’ commitment to advancing these principles has made a lasting impact, both within SRP Federal Credit Union and in the broader community.

 

A trailblazer with a remarkable personal story of determination and inspiration, Mrs. Wright Sanders has devoted her career to championing equitable access and opportunities. Elected to SRP’s Board of Directors in 1992, she made history as the first person of color to serve on the Board. From the start, Mrs. Wright Sanders committed to advocating for fairness and working tirelessly to ensure that every voice is heard and represented.

 

In addition to her work on the Board of Directors, Mrs. Wright Sanders has led several initiatives to foster equity within the credit union. She has strongly advocated for fair and equal pay for all SRP team members.  Shortly after being elected, she played a key role in securing funding to provide financial literacy programs for people of color, aiming to improve access to loan approvals. Furthermore, she has focused on continuing to diversify representation in leadership by actively recruiting individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to serve on boards and in leadership roles, ensuring more voices are included in decision-making processes.

 

Beyond her contributions to SRP, Mrs. Wright Sanders has long been an advocate for social justice and inclusivity in the community. She is a founding member of the African American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC), has served as the Second Vice President of NAACP’s Aiken Branch, and as the Secretary of the Internal Affairs Committee for the NAACP’s South Carolina Conference of Branches.  Currently, she serves on the University of South Carolina Aiken’s Inclusion Advisory Council, further demonstrating her unwavering commitment to creating more inclusive spaces for all.

 

“Louisiana’s passion for advancing equity and inclusion shines through in everything she does,” said Eric Jenkins, Chief Executive Officer, of SRP Federal Credit Union. “Her leadership and tireless advocacy inspire us all to do better, be better, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We are incredibly proud of her and all that she continues to achieve.”

 

SRP Federal Credit Union congratulates Mrs. Wright Sanders on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to her continued leadership in promoting equity and inclusion within the organization and the community.

 

Rated one of only twenty-two credit unions nationwide with a top rating by Weiss Financial Ratings, SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, SC, and provides financial services to more than 197,000 members. For more information on SRP Federal Credit Union, visit www.srpfcu.org.