Courage, Culture, and Growth: Inside Sunward Credit Union with CEO Steph Sherrodd

In this inspiring episode of Women of Community Banking, host Anurag Mukherjee sits down with Steph Sherrodd, CEO of Sunward Credit Union (formerly Sandia Laboratory Federal Credit Union), to explore her remarkable journey through the credit union movement. From starting out as a student intern in Wyoming to leading transformational growth at one of the Southwest’s most innovative credit unions — Steph shares powerful lessons on leadership, culture, and strategic growth.Discover how Steph guided Sunward through a major rebrand, expanded into new markets across New Mexico, Colorado, and California, and built a culture rooted in purpose, courage, and grace. She also reflects on the importance of blending digital innovation and human connection, maintaining strong roots with Sandia National Labs, and empowering the next generation of credit union leaders.Timestamps:0:00 – Introduction and the story behind meeting Steph1:00 – Steph’s journey from Wyoming to CEO4:40 – The long-term vision for Sunward Credit Union6:45 – Competing in a digital-first world9:20 – Building culture and values-driven leadership12:05 – Staying connected with Sandia Labs legacy14:00 – Leadership lessons: Courage and grace15:50 – Advice for future credit union leadersAbout the Guest:Steph Sherrodd is the President and CEO of Sunward Credit Union, headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico. With over two decades of experience leading major credit unions, Steph is driving Sunward’s Vision 2035, emphasizing member experience, community connection, and technology-driven growth.About the Podcast:Women of Community Banking spotlights powerful voices shaping the future of the banking and credit union industry. Join host Anurag Mukherjee as he sits down with trailblazing women leaders redefining leadership, innovation, and community impact.Follow & Connect:🎙️ Listen to more episodes: Women of Community Banking Podcast📺 Subscribe to The Outlier Podcast Network for more banking and fintech insights🔗 Follow us on LinkedIn: @WomenOfCommunityBanking | @SunwardCreditUnion**#WomenOfCommunityBanking #CreditUnionLeadership #StephSherrodd #SunwardCreditUnion #CommunityBanking #FinancialInclusion #Leadership #Rebrand #CourageAndGrace #AnuragMukherjee