This year, the National Institutes of Health Federal Credit Union (NIHFCU) marks 80 years of continuous operation. On January 11, 1940, when nine federal employees pooled $75 and began transacting business out of a shoebox, the NIHFCU was born. From a cramped 5’x6’ space at NIH (Bethesda, MD) to today’s advanced mobile banking solutions, the NIHFCU has enjoyed a fascinating history.
“The evolution of the NIHFCU from its humble beginnings is quite remarkable. Its ability to grow through the vast social, regulatory and economic changes over the decades is a tribute to all those who have touched the NIHFCU in some way,” said Rick Wieczorek, NIHFCU’s President & CEO. “This includes our volunteer Board and Committee members, dedicated employees, and of course, our incredibly loyal members who continue to provide us with the privilege of serving their financial needs.”
To help celebrate, the NIHFCU has a Celebrate 80 Years webpage where members can share their stories about how the credit union has made a difference in their lives or for their loved ones. Members who provide their stories will also be entered to win a share of $800 in cash prizes. The credit union will highlight some of the most unique stories throughout the celebratory year.
Steve Levin, NIHFCU’s VP of Marketing and Business Development states, “Our story search is a great way for our members to chronicle their experiences over past decades. With NIHFCU’s new Discover Banking with Heart brand position, the timing of our anniversary celebration is perfect, and we look forward to receiving and sharing the many genuine and powerful stories from our membership.”
In addition to the Celebrate 80 Years story search, the credit union will also mark their 80th anniversary by opening a new “branch of the future” in Silver Spring, expanding its community service and volunteerism engagements, and announcing a variety of member special opportunities throughout the course of the year.
The NIHFCU remains honored to serve all those dedicated to making the world a healthier place. In 2020, it celebrates not only its past but the promise of a bright future ahead.
About NIHFCU
The National Institutes of Health Federal Credit Union (NIHFCU) is a full-service not-for-profit financial co-operative based in Rockville, MD. With assets over $675 million, and its network of branches, ATMs and digital banking systems, the NIHFCU currently serves over 41,000 members, primarily healthcare and biomedical professionals in Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. With a range of accounts, affordable loans and other convenient banking solutions, the credit union is dedicated to helping its members achieve their financial goals for themselves and their families. For more information on the NIHFCU, visit www.nihfcu.org.
