Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union (ACFCU) is proud to announce Norton Branch Manager Leah Farmer and Johnson City Branch Manager Kendra Nickles have earned the Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor (CCUFC) designation through the Enhanced Financial Counselor Certification Program offered by the Tennessee and Mississippi Credit Union Association.

The program equips credit union professionals with the knowledge and practical skills needed to help members navigate financial challenges and make informed decisions. The curriculum includes financial counseling fundamentals, budgeting, credit, taxes, insurance, investments, retirement planning, and other key personal finance topics. Participants who successfully complete the coursework and pass a comprehensive exam earn the CCUFC designation, preparing them to provide meaningful financial guidance to credit union members.

"Becoming a Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor allows me to better serve our members by providing guidance, education, and support through every stage of their financial journey," Farmer said. "My goal is to empower our members with the tools and confidence they need to achieve financial stability and success while continuing to build the trusted relationships that make the ACFCU difference so meaningful."

"I'm excited to use the knowledge and tools I've gained through this certification to help members feel more confident and secure in their finances," Nickles added. "I look forward to supporting and encouraging members while helping them build healthy financial habits that can benefit them for years to come."

Farmer and Nickles join a growing team of ACFCU employees who have earned the CCUFC designation, reinforcing the credit union's ongoing commitment to providing trusted financial guidance and living out the credit union philosophy of People Helping People.

"One of the best investments we can make is in our people," said Miranda Gray Cooper, ACFCU Chief Experience Officer. "When we give our team opportunities to grow professionally, our members benefit right alongside them. Leah and Kendra have always been passionate about serving others, and this certification gives them even more tools to help members build confidence, overcome financial challenges, and reach their goals. We're proud to support this kind of growth because it's an investment that strengthens our entire community."