Ketchikan, AK (May 2020) – Tongass Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce the selection of Gracia O’Connell as Assistant Vice President of Consumer Lending following a nationwide search.

“Gracia’s extensive background and experience in consumer lending will bring the expertise needed to modernize delivery of our consumer loans. We look forward to having her join our leadership team and lead efforts to provide our members with exceptional loan products and services,” said TFCU President/CEO Helen Mickel.

Gracia comes to Tongass with nearly 20 years of experience in the credit union industry, most recently at Denali Federal Credit Union where she served as the Vice President of Contact Center Operations and eServices. Prior to joining Denali, Gracia was with Alaska USA Federal Credit Union for 15 years where she held a variety of roles such the Consumer Lending Compliance Officer, Extra Credit Manager, and Consumer Loan Officer and Processor roles. Gracia holds a Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology from Alaska Pacific University and is completing a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Alaska Pacific University.

When asked about her new position at Tongass Federal Credit Union, Gracia said, “As a lifelong Alaskan raised in Southeast, this is a wonderful opportunity to join an organization that is so well respected and committed to serving the coastal communities of this region. I am thrilled to be a part of the team, contributing to Tongass Federal Credit Union’s continued growth and service commitment.”

About Tongass Federal Credit Union
Tongass Federal Credit Union, established in 1963, was founded by a group of teachers who were unable to receive loans from local banks because they did not have “consistent” income due to the summer break. Soon after, hospital and government employees were added to the field of membership. Today, Tongass FCU serves nearly 8,200 members with assets over $87 million across southern Southeast Alaska. Tongass FCU consists of four, full-service branches, and three community microsites. Tongass FCU offers a complete line of financial services and products located in: Ketchikan, Klawock, Metlakatla, Wrangell, Thorne Bay, Hydaburg, and Kake. Tongass FCU takes pride in its ability to be innovative and flexible to meet the needs of its members. Tongass FCU provides its members quality financial services with a competitive edge, while ensuring the safety and stability of financial assets. To learn more about TFCU, visit https://www.tongassfcu.com/au-history.html