Banking on Our Community
Our region’s banks, insurance experts, credit unions, and financial professionals play a vital role in keeping our community strong. They’re more than the smiling faces behind the counter or the advisors behind the desk—they’re trusted partners in our financial journeys. From helping us save for life’s milestones to guiding us through major investments, they make it possible for individuals, families, and businesses to plan, grow, and dream bigger right here in the Mohawk Valley.
While national headlines often focus on mergers and branch closures, local institutions here continue to thrive—offering personalized service, meaningful community reinvestment, and innovative products that rival any big bank. Whether it’s a credit union sponsoring youth sports, a loan officer volunteering at a food pantry, or a CEO rolling up their sleeves to support a charity gala, these professionals remind us that banking here is personal.
This month, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the Mohawk Valley’s best financial institutions and leaders—those who not only manage assets, but also invest in the very heart of our community.
GPO Federal Credit Union
LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT
GPO’s leadership team and volunteer board of directors bring decades of financial, operational, and community experience to their roles. Led by CEO Nick Mayhew, the team exemplifies GPO’s core values: Respect, Integrity, and a Commitment to Excellence.
Many leaders have long-standing ties to the Mohawk Valley region, ensuring the credit union’s strategic direction remains closely aligned with the needs of its members and the community. Whether it’s financial literacy efforts, innovation in member service, or support for employee growth, the leadership team consistently demonstrates a member-first mindset.
WHAT SETS THEM APART
Unlike traditional banks, GPO is a not-for-profit, member-owned cooperative that puts people over profits. Earnings are reinvested into the credit union to improve rates, reduce fees, and enhance services.
What truly sets GPO apart is its commitment to building lifelong financial relationships—not just transactional ones. Through personalized service, financial counseling, and inclusive products (like loans for members new to credit), GPO strives to be a trusted partner in every phase of its members’ lives.
The credit union’s culture promotes doing things right the first time, ensuring a consistent and reliable member experience.
LOOKING AHEAD
In the next 5 to 10 years, GPO aims to continue growing both digitally and physically—expanding branch access, introducing new member-focused technologies, and deepening its community involvement.
Key initiatives include:
Enhancing financial education resources
Broadening inclusive lending programs
Modernizing digital banking tools to meet evolving member expectations
All growth efforts will remain grounded in GPO’s mission to provide safe, sound, and personalized financial solutions.
COMMUNITY CONNECTION
Community involvement is at the heart of GPO’s identity. The credit union proudly sponsors local events like the Boilermaker High School Challenge, supports veterans through events like the Utica University Veterans Day Game(benefiting Sitrin’s Military Program) and the Purple Heart Car Show, and contributes to causes such as the Children’s Miracle Network and Stuff the Bus.
GPO employees are regularly encouraged to volunteer, and initiatives like Medicare Seminars and financial education programs reflect its dedication to being more than just a financial institution.
