Desert Financial Named a Credit Union of the Year in Arizona

PHOENIX (Originally published November 9, 2023) – Desert Financial Credit Union has been named an Arizona Credit Union of the Year by Az Business magazine as part of its 2023 Excellence in Banking Awards.  

Credit Union of the Year is the top Excellence in Banking Award that can be bestowed to a credit union and is awarded to only five credit unions in Arizona each year.

In addition, Az Business magazine awarded Desert Financial with the Community Impact Award for the credit union’s dedication to sharing its success with its members, community and team.  

The magazine also recognized Desert Financial executives for two of its five Credit Union Leaders of the Year awards.  

Chief Financial Officer, Jack Biggs, was recognized for his expertise in financial risk and modeling as well as his efforts to attract and retain top talent at the credit union.  

"Collaboration and communication have been key in helping Desert Financial and its employees be able to weather some difficult economic storms while still giving back to the community," said Biggs.  

Senior Vice President and Chief Engagement Officer, Laura Wallace, received the Credit Union Leader of the Year award for her transformation of the member experience at Desert Financial through innovative technologies that enable employees to focus on building relationships with members.  

"We take pride in being a trusted partner in our members' financial journeys and it starts with a strong base of employees that are knowledgeable and skilled in financial solutions and technologies," said Wallace. '"It has been an honor for me to work with a company that truly wants to do the right thing for its members and its employees."  

The 2023 Excellence in Banking honorees will be featured in the November issue of Az Business magazine. This annual editorial section recognizes and honors innovation and leadership in Arizona’s financial services sector.  

Categories for Arizona Excellence in Banking 2023 are Banks of the Year, Bankers of the Year, Credit Unions of the Year, Credit Union Leaders of the Year, Wealth Managers of the Year and Community Impact.  

"Excellence in Banking enables us to showcase the depth and diversity of innovation and leadership in Arizona’s financial sector," says Amy Lindsey, publisher at AZ Big Media, which publishes Az Business magazine and seven other Arizona-based publications, "as well as the exceptional community impact and philanthropic endeavors of these individuals and organizations."  

The Excellence in Banking Awards are the latest of several notable awards Desert Financial has received in 2023, including Forbes Best in State Credit Union, Best of the Valley, Ranking Arizona, Best of the Desert and Best Companies AZ.

Az Business honorees are selected by Az Business magazine’s editorial team along with its editorial board.