TULLAHOMA, Tenn., September 10, 2024 – For the ninth consecutive year, Ascend Federal Credit Union has been recognized by American Banker as one of the top 70 best credit unions to work for in the United States. Ascend is the only Tennessee credit union listed nine times since the survey and awards program’s inception in 2014, and one of only two Tennessee-based credit unions that made the list of organizations honored this year.

In recognizing Ascend for its exceptional workplace, judges highlighted a long-term employee sustainability strategy which led to a 46% internal promotion rate last year. The judges also noted that the credit union distinguished itself from industry peers through a partnership with Middle Tennessee State University that provides employees with an 18% tuition discount in addition to Ascend’s pre-existing tuition reimbursement program.

“We are honored to once again be included on the list of best credit unions to work for in America,” said Peggy Stubblefield, Ascend’s chief human resources officer. “The fact that a significant part of being recognized in these rankings is gauged by employee perspective in eight distinct categories shows that we have been successful in creating a special work environment at Ascend. We are thankful to American Banker for this recognition and will continue to look for meaningful ways to make a difference in the lives of our employees, members, and the communities we serve.”

Ascend’s benefits include tuition assistance, opportunities to support local fundraising efforts and 10 paid holidays. Additionally, Ascend pays for 100% of health coverage for employees, and 90% of employees are currently enrolled in the plan. The organization also offers 401(k) contributions that match 100% of an employee's contribution by the fifth year of participation, up to 10% of the employee’s annual salary.

The Best Credit Unions to Work For process includes submitting an in-depth employer benefits and policies questionnaire that details organizational policies, practices, and demographics. Employees then provide feedback through an employee engagement and satisfaction survey, which consists of more than 75 statements to respond to, as well as demographic and open-ended questions. To qualify for the Best Credit Unions to Work For, companies must have a minimum of 15 employees and have been in business for at least one year.

For more information on the Best Credit Unions to Work For program, visit www.BestCreditUnionstoWorkFor.com.

About Ascend Federal Credit Union

With more than 243,000 members and more than $4.4 billion in assets, Ascend Federal Credit Union is the largest credit union in Middle Tennessee and one of the largest federally chartered credit unions in the United States. Based in Tullahoma, Tenn., the member-owned financial institution offers banking, loan, retirement, and investment services from its 28 branches, more than 55,000 free ATMs worldwide, digital banking portal, and mobile app. The credit union’s mission is to serve by offering financial literacy education and giving back to its community in a variety of ways. Ascend is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration. For more information, visit ascend.org.

###