Brad Ballentine, AVP of Accounting and Finance at SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Names Brad Ballentine New AVP of Accounting and Finance

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August 18, 2026

North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union is pleased to welcome Brad Ballentine, CPA, as its new AVP of Accounting and Finance. In his new role, Ballentine will lead the Accounting and Financial Reporting departments in accordance with the credit union’s strategic goals.

Over the last 16 years, Ballentine has served in leadership roles across South Carolina credit unions and the Carolinas Credit Union League. Ballentine recently served as Vice President Controller at AllSouth Federal Credit Union, and his accomplished accounting career also includes leadership positions at SAFE Federal Credit Union and Caro Federal Credit Union.

Ballentine holds a Master of Accountancy from Western Governors University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration/Accounting from Limestone University. Additionally, he has earned the Certified Credit Union Executive designation through the Southeastern Regional Credit Union School.

A longtime credit union leader, Ballentine expressed excitement in joining the SRP Federal Credit Union team, known internally as SRP ambassadors. “SRP is well known throughout the credit union movement for having a rich history of community outreach and for embodying the ‘People Helping People’ mantra,” he said.

“I look forward to partnering with ambassadors in our Accounting and Financial Reporting teams to optimize our processes and elevate our capabilities,” said Ballentine. “These strategic efforts will directly support SRP Federal Credit Union’s sustainable growth and financial stability for years to come.”

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.

Connor Hearon, Director of Financial Analysis and Projects

SRP Federal Credit Union Names Connor Hearon New Director of Financial Analysis and Projects

posted on

August 11, 2026

North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Connor Hearon as its new Director of Financial Analysis and Projects. In this role, Hearon will lead efforts to modernize financial reporting, analytics, and performance measurement to support greater efficiency, accountability, and long-term organizational success.

Hearon has held a range of roles in the financial industry, leading financial and operational projects, supporting governance and control environments, and partnering with executive leadership to strengthen organizational performance and decision-making.

An Augusta native, Hearon holds a Master of Accountancy from Liberty University and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Georgia College & State University.

Hearon said he looks forward to collaborating with teams across SRP Federal Credit Union to transform data into meaningful insights that drive decisions, enhance value for members, and support SRP’s positive impact in the communities it serves.

“This role brings together many of the areas I've been passionate about throughout my career, financial analysis, data driven decision making, and project leadership,” said Hearon. “I'm excited for the opportunity to help build capabilities that will support SRP’s success for years to come.”

About SRP

Kelley Martin, VP of Lending at SRP Federal Credit Union

SRP Federal Credit Union Names Kelley Martin New VP of Lending

posted on

August 4, 2026

North Augusta, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union is pleased to welcome Kelley Martin to the SRP leadership team as the organization’s new Vice President of Lending. Her primary responsibilities include the management and direction of the credit union’s Consumer Lending, Mortgage Lending, and Loss Mitigation departments in accordance with SRP’s strategic goals.

Martin has previously served in executive leadership roles in credit unions across Georgia and Florida. Most recently, she served as Chief Operations Officer of Publix Employees Federal Credit Union. Her extensive career also includes leadership positions at VyStar Credit Union, Space Coast Credit Union, and Delta Community Credit Union.

A native of the Central Savannah River Area, Martin is returning to the organization where her credit union career began. Martin joined SRP Federal Credit Union in 1989 as a Teller, later building to her first management position as Internet Services Manager.

Martin earned a Master of Science in Business Analytics from Indiana University and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from the University of South Carolina Aiken. She holds several professional certifications, including the Certified Credit Union Executive (CCUE) designation and the Certified Credit Union Compliance Officer (CUCO) certification, among others.

“I am excited to be back in the area where I grew up and to have the opportunity to serve the community that has meant so much to me,” said Martin. “I look forward to helping our members achieve their financial goals, whether that’s buying a first home, saving for the future, or making lifelong dreams a reality.”

About SRP

SRP leaders join Aiken County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Corey Murphy for an SRP Affinity check presentation at the Aiken County Board of Education.

Aiken County Public Schools Receive Over $300,000 from SRP Affinity Debit Card Program

posted on

May 28, 2026

Aiken, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union representatives presented the Aiken County Board of Education with funds exceeding $300,000 from the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program’s 2025 proceeds, reflecting a year of dedicated support from SRP members.

At $321,880.30, the total funds represent participation among nine high schools in Aiken County: the Aiken County Career Technology Center, Aiken High School, Aiken Scholars Academy, Midland Valley High School, North Augusta High School, Ridge Spring-Monetta High School, Silver Bluff High School, South Aiken High School, and Wagener-Salley High School.

“We thank SRP and every student and family who uses their Affinity Debit Card. The program has allowed our high schools financial flexibility to further encourage student success,” said Dr. Corey Murphy, Superintendent of Aiken County Public Schools.

The SRP Affinity Debit Card Program, established in 2018, helps provide funding to schools throughout the credit union’s field of membership in the CSRA. Every time an SRP member uses an Affinity Debit Card for a purchase, SRP donates to the school designated on the card.

46 schools participate in the Affinity Debit Card Program, including public, private, and charter high schools, as well as Augusta Technical College. SRP Federal Credit Union has donated more than $3 million to schools since the program’s inception – and over $1 million of those funds has supported schools in the Aiken County Public School District.

“Aiken County Public Schools have been with our Affinity Debit Card Program from the beginning. Every year, we are inspired by the unwavering dedication of our SRP members as they help us uplift local schools,” said Lonzo Smith, Community Impact Manager at SRP Federal Credit Union. “We extend heartfelt gratitude to the families, educators, and members who make this program possible.”

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Celebrates $3 Million Donated to Local Schools through Affinity Program

posted on

May 26, 2026

North Augusta, SC – Principals, superintendents, school board representatives, and educators from across the CSRA gathered at SRP Federal Credit Union's Administrative Campus on Monday, May 18, to celebrate a significant milestone in the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program: more than $3 million donated to local schools throughout the region.

Established in 2018, the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program gives SRP members an easy and meaningful way to support local education. Members select a school-branded debit card connected to one of 46 participating schools, and every time the card is used for purchases, SRP donates funds directly to that school.

Participating schools include public, charter, and private high schools across the CSRA, as well as Augusta Technical College.

The celebration featured ceremonial checks representing donations made to participating schools and districts, highlighting the impact of SRP members' ongoing commitment to investing in education through the Affinity Program.

"Every swipe is bigger than just a transaction, it's an investment in our students, educators, and the future of our communities." said Liz Ponder, CEO of SRP Federal Credit Union. "This milestone represents the power of people coming together to make a lasting impact in local schools across the CSRA. We are incredibly proud of our members for embracing this program and helping create meaningful opportunities for students."

One of the program's most impactful features is the flexibility of the donations. Funds provided through the Affinity Program are unrestricted, allowing school administrators to direct resources where they are needed most.

Over the years, Affinity Program funds have supported a wide range of educational needs, including classroom technology, furniture, training for teachers, athletic and band uniforms, and student travel to competitions.

SRP Federal Credit Union remains committed to creating opportunities that strengthen local schools and enrich the lives throughout the CSRA.

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union representatives join the Columbia County Board of Education for a check presentation ceremony.

Columbia County Public High Schools Receive Over $62,000 From SRP Federal Credit Union’s Affinity Debit Card Program

posted on

May 19, 2026

Evans, GA – SRP Federal Credit Union representatives joined the Columbia County Board of Education on April 21 to celebrate the district’s 2025 SRP Affinity Debit Card Program proceeds, which will provide support for five participating high schools: Evans High School, Greenbrier High School, Grovetown High School, Harlem High School, and Lakeside High School.

Totaling $62,599.75, the donation reflects a year of participation from families, faculty and staff, and community members who selected a Columbia County school to support with their SRP Affinity Debit Cards.

“We appreciate the continued partnership between SRP Federal Credit Union and our five high schools. Their support aligns with our strategic plan and helps strengthen student achievement through community engagement, while also helping to enhance the high-quality learning taking place across the Columbia County School District. Thank you, SRP Federal Credit Union, for all you do to inspire our students and staff,” said Dr. Steven Flynt, Superintendent of the Columbia County School District.

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Affinity Debit Card Program, launched in 2018, strengthens local schools with funding. 45 high schools and Augusta Technical College participate in the program, offering SRP members the opportunity to support schools across the credit union’s 10-county field of membership. Every time an SRP member makes a purchase using an Affinity Debit Card, SRP donates funds to the school designated on the card.

Affinity donations have supported a wide range of needs, including school equipment, team uniforms, teacher certifications, and more. Participating schools have full discretion over how they use the donations, allowing them to allocate funds wherever they are needed most.

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union representatives join Barnwell County School District board members and Superintendent Dr. Stapleton behind a ceremonial check for $71,095.30.

SRP Donates Over $70,000 to Barnwell County School District High Schools Through Affinity Debit Card Program

posted on

April 24, 2026

Barnwell, SC – Four schools in the Barnwell County School District received a combined total of over $70,000 from SRP Federal Credit Union’s 2025 Affinity Debit Card Program proceeds, reflecting a year of commitment to supporting local schools from families, faculty and staff, and community members.

SRP Federal Credit Union officials joined Barnwell County School District Board of Trustees members and Superintendent Dr. Crissie Stapleton in a check presentation ceremony on March 25. The school district received $71,095.30 in unrestricted funds for participating schools.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we are deeply grateful for SRP’s continued investment in our students and schools,” said Becky Huggins, Board Chair for the Barnwell County School District. “Partnerships like this strengthen not only our classrooms, but our entire community.”

Launched in 2018, the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program strengthens local high schools, as well as Augusta Technical College, with funding. Every time an SRP member makes a purchase using an Affinity Debit Card, SRP Federal Credit Union donates funds to the school designated on the card.

Participating schools have full discretion over how they use the Affinity donations, allowing them to allocate funds wherever they are needed most. These donations have supported a wide range of needs, including teacher certifications, school equipment, computer upgrades, team uniforms, and more.

“At SRP Federal Credit Union, we believe in strengthening our communities through the power of education,” said Lonzo Smith, SRP Federal Credit Union Community Impact Manager. “What makes the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program special is the way it connects schools, families, and community members toward a common goal: uplifting students in our area. We are proud to support schools across our 10-county service area with Affinity funds.”

In the Barnwell County School District, SRP Federal Credit Union offers Affinity Debit Cards that benefit the Barnwell County Career Center, Barnwell High School, Blackville-Hilda High School, and Williston-Elko High School.

"We are deeply grateful for our continued partnership with SRP Federal Credit Union and the impact of the Affinity Debit Card Program,” said Dr. Stapleton. “This initiative reflects a shared commitment to our students, turning everyday transactions into meaningful investments that support programs, provide resources, and create opportunities across Barnwell County School District. The impact of SRP’s Affinity Debit Card Program not only provides critical support for student programs and resources, but also demonstrates the power of a community coming together to invest in the success of our children."

About SRP

More than 2,000 SRP members fill the USCA Convocation Center for SRP Federal Credit Union's Annual Membership Meeting.

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Annual Membership Meeting Draws Over 2,000 Members

posted on

April 21, 2026

Graniteville, SC – SRP Federal Credit Union hosted its 66th Annual Membership Meeting at the USCA Convocation Center on Tuesday, March 31, with a record-breaking attendance of more than 2,000 members.

A total of 2,224 members attended the event, marking the fifth consecutive year of increasing attendance at SRP’s annual meetings and the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking participation.

During the meeting, SRP Board of Directors Chairman Sandra DeVoe Bland, Treasurer Larry Laughlin, and SRP CEO Liz Ponder presented reports on the credit union’s 2025 performance. Following the reports, members had an opportunity to participate in an open forum and ask questions of Chairman DeVoe Bland.

In 2025, SRP Federal Credit Union achieved several significant milestones. The credit union surpassed $2 billion in assets, and membership grew to more than 200,000 member-owners. Additionally, SRP employees contributed over 4,600 volunteer hours across the credit union’s 10-county field of membership.

“As we look ahead, our future will be defined by more than just growth. It will be defined by access, empathy, and impact because we are committed to a purpose to change lives,” said Ms. Ponder during her CEO report. “The future of SRP is strong, and together, we will continue building a credit union that serves, strengthens, and stands beside this community for generations to come.”

SRP Board Chairman Sandra DeVoe Bland speaks into a microphone. — SRP Board of Directors Chairman Sandra DeVoe Bland delivers remarks and answers open forum questions at SRP Federal Credit Union's 66th Annual Membership Meeting.

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Receives Diamond Awards Honoring Marketing Excellence

posted on

March 31, 2026

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

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

posted on

March 26, 2026

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.

Tag: credit union

SRP Federal Credit Union Names Brad Ballentine New AVP of Accounting and Finance

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Names Connor Hearon New Director of Financial Analysis and Projects

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Names Kelley Martin New VP of Lending

About SRP

Aiken County Public Schools Receive Over $300,000 from SRP Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Celebrates $3 Million Donated to Local Schools through Affinity Program

About SRP

Columbia County Public High Schools Receive Over $62,000 From SRP Federal Credit Union’s Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

SRP Donates Over $70,000 to Barnwell County School District High Schools Through Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Annual Membership Meeting Draws Over 2,000 Members

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Receives Diamond Awards Honoring Marketing Excellence

SRP received recognition in the following categories:

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

About SRP

About America’s Credit Unions

About Councils

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

About SRP

803-278-4851

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SRP Federal Credit Union Names Brad Ballentine New AVP of Accounting and Finance

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Names Connor Hearon New Director of Financial Analysis and Projects

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Names Kelley Martin New VP of Lending

About SRP

Aiken County Public Schools Receive Over $300,000 from SRP Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Celebrates $3 Million Donated to Local Schools through Affinity Program

About SRP

Columbia County Public High Schools Receive Over $62,000 From SRP Federal Credit Union’s Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

SRP Donates Over $70,000 to Barnwell County School District High Schools Through Affinity Debit Card Program

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union’s Annual Membership Meeting Draws Over 2,000 Members

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union Receives Diamond Awards Honoring Marketing Excellence

SRP received recognition in the following categories:

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

About SRP

About America’s Credit Unions

About Councils

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

About SRP

803-278-4851

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