Celebrating Renée Sattiewhite: 10 Years Leading AACUC

Dan Berger
Happy Anniversary to one of my favorite people on the planet. Glass ceiling crusher, leader and most importantly, friend. Congratulations on ten incredible years! AACUC has grown because of your incredible leadership and tenacity. Love you!

Gigi Hyland
That memorable night of February 28, 2022, when Renee accepted the Anchor Award at the Foundation Dinner on behalf of AACUC. Magical!! All hail, Sister Queen Renée! Thanks for 10 amazing years of leadership at AACUC.

Merry Pateuk
In your 'Renée way', you shake the world. What can I say? You make us better humans.

Kimberly Plant
Phenomenal Woman (Maya Angelou) - ...The Stride of her step...the fire in her eyes....the flash of her teeth...the grace of her style...she is a woman-leader....phenomenally.

Chrystal Hunter
Throughout my credit union career, I’ve had the privilege of meeting many influential thought leaders, but nobody compares to our sister, Queen Renée. She is a legendary figure in the movement, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to witness her grace and excellence in all that she does. Cheers to all you do in furtherance of the credit union movement.

Grace Sanchez
Happy 10th Anniversary as CEO of AACUC!
I want to especially thank you for putting me together twice… like Humpty Dumpty, you know what I mean.
AACUC is what it is today because of you!

Pablo Defilippi
Congratulations on your 10th Anniversary at the helm of AACUC. During this time, you have challenged and inspired us all to create a more inclusive and diverse credit union movement. You are a force of nature, unstoppable and a relentless champion for those that don’t have a voice. I feel blessed to be your friend and partner in crime.

John Cassidy
Renée is one of the most selfless leaders I’ve ever met. She consistently looks out for others and makes sure they are seen and heard. Being in her presence is a special place to be and her friendship has enriched my life in many ways. Congratulations on 10 years of leading impact at AACUC, Renée. Thank you for all that you do for our credit union movement. It’s a better place because you are part of it!

Brian Knight
Renée, thank you for all you do to make sure our movement lives up to its ideals. You are an inspirational leader and it is a joy to work alongside you!

John Bissell
Renée is an inspiring leader, continuously seeking to uplift young professionals, place a spotlight on Black excellence, and strengthen the credit union movement by changing the conversation toward greater equity and inclusion.

Kelley Smith
“Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.” – Simon Sinek

Tracey Jackson
Congratulations on 10 years of taking AACUC to new heights… thank you for all you do and keep doing your Sattiewhite Must Do’s. I want to especially thank you for your guidance, support and friendship over the years. You have always pushed me to reach higher. Love you always!
David Sussman
She is magnetic with an unending supply of energy and positivity. From the moment I met her in 1996, Renée has personified and exemplified professionalism and confidence. Whoever is blessed to be in her circle is showered with love and loyalty rarely found in a lifetime. Her infinite goal of leading, bringing about change and helping individuals, communities, and ultimately an industry is not only in her DNA, it is her superpower. If it seems as if Renée has climbed a mountain in one decade with the AACUC, what lies ahead is the moon, the stars and the universe. There is nothing beyond her reach and I look forward to cheering her on, supporting her dreams and continuing to be one of the many who make up Renée's army.

Hello Renée! We are very happy for the outstanding work you are doing for AACUC.
Love you,
Mom n Papa Pru

Maricela Castillo
Renée is a wonderful leader that believes in people while inspiring them to be a better version of themselves. I am beyond thankful for the trust she has in me as a young professional and for always pouring into my cup. Renée continues to push the credit union movement forward while creating space for everyone to grow.

Lois Kitsch
To my dear friend Renée - Happy 10th Anniversary as CEO of AACUC. You have led your organization with style and grace. Today it has become an internationally recognized and highly respected organization. I am speaking for our entire African Cooperative Development Foundation (ACDF) Board when I say that we are so grateful for the support that you and AACUC have provided to the African Continent. Thanks in huge part to you and AACUC, the ACCOSCA Academy has been built and is now providing training programs throughout Africa. This training allows SACCO Leadership to build skills and to provide better products and services to millions of African Credit Union Members. I am so excited to see where AACUC and ACDF go in the next ten years. Together our organizations will build a stronger Africa.

Carlene Alexander
Every time I think of Renée, I’m reminded of The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot. Like Henrietta, Renée is offering the world gifts that will endure long after she’s gone. She’s planting seeds—ideas, actions, and kindness—that are taking root and will continue to transform the world for the better. Thank you, Queen. I can’t imagine a more meaningful legacy.

Jasmine Taylor Newton
I had the pleasure of OFFICIALLY meeting Ms. Renée at my first AACUC Conference I attended in Atlanta! Although we didn’t speak much then because we all pull her every which way, at the Young Professionals outing, she took the time to take this picture with me. Watching Ms. Renée in action and everything she does for the movement is soo inspiring. I then got to actually have a conversation with Ms. Renée at the AACUC Conference this year in Vegas and she was as sweet and powerful as I thought. I look forward to supporting AACUC and I’m glad I have a role model to watch that lets me know I can do anything if I just set my mind to it!



Trevaughn Allen
Ms. Renée commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the credit union industry has left a lasting impact. Renée has not only expanded AACUC's influence but has also championed the importance of allyship and created platforms for underrepresented voices. Her leadership is a testament to her vision and dedication to the cooperative movement and its role in building stronger communities.
Libby Calderone
Renée's leadership is inspiring! Her energy captivates a room and her compassion touches your heart. Leaders like her only come around occasionally. Renée's dedicated efforts are a powerful role model for all of us to emulate. God bless Renée and the work of AACUC - making the world better for everyone, each and every day. Renée makes us all better!
Sharon Grieger
Congratulations on your 10-year anniversary. You’ve done so much to ensure diversity, equity and inclusion are embedded in the fiber of the CU movement, it’s amazing! I’m inspired by your commitment to financial inclusion and economic empowerment for people of color and want to support you in every way I can. Congratulations again!
Susan Mitchell
There are so many magical moments for Renée and me, so I selected these three to exemplify how much we love her and the impact on our tribe. We all believe in making a difference in the world and there are no better allies than us for and to each other. It’s so much fun to know that we will forever be together in America’s Credit Union Museum.




Gloria Dixon
Renée is fearless. Not in the "I can do anything at any time to whomever I want" kind of fearless. But, the fearlessness that comes from a passion rooted in doing what is right for the greater good, moving past hold ways to innovate, ensuring everyone has a seat at the table, giving voice to young voices (and Titans). Even when she may not be 100% sure or have it all figured out, she never backs away from asking the hard questions, working to find a solution or listening to understand. She says the quiet things out loud and does not hold her tongue to say what needs to be said. That is not easy to do or wanted. It can make you vulnerable to other people's judgment or inspection. But, she doesn’t say things because she is waiting for someone else’s response or approval. She says it because she means it and she knows it is needed. I respect her tremendously. She helped me during a low professional moment and gave me encouragement. Congratulations Renée on 10 years fearlessly!


Tisha Held
Renée's strong leadership is the foundation for where AACUC is today. She has a clear vision and voice. Her ability to navigate all spaces and bring people together for the common elevation of AACUC is admired and appreciated.
Liz Ponder
Reneé, I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible strides you have made as the leader of AACUC. Your journey is nothing short of inspiring, and your achievements resonate far beyond the walls of your organization.
Your leadership has not only driven AACUC to new heights but has also paved the way for countless African Americans to follow in your footsteps. You have shown that with determination, vision, and unwavering commitment, barriers can be broken, and new paths can be forged.
Your dedication to excellence and your courage to challenge the status quo have created opportunities and opened doors that were once thought to be closed. You are a beacon of hope and a powerful example of what is possible when one dares to dream big and work tirelessly towards those dreams.
Thank you for being a trailblazer, a mentor, and a source of inspiration. Your legacy is one of empowerment and progress, and it will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations. Congratulations on your 10 years of service! Many more to follow.
With heartfelt appreciation.


Ed Presnell
Since joining AACUC in 2007, I have seen the organization grow its presence and industry influence extensively. Many people have had a participatory role in various aspects; we have been consciously overseen by a committed group of volunteer board members who have volunteered their time and wisdom to the long term goals of AACUC.
When we were able to secure Renée Sattiewhite as our professional leader, positive things began to happen as she approached her assignment permanently. I served three and a half terms as an elected board member, and I just completed two additional years as AACUC board member emeritus. It is still the most precious time I have volunteered over my own business career. I certainly feel qualified to praise Renée for her incredible dedication. There is no doubt that Renée’s focus on the big picture is the common denominator for our growth. Her commitment to excellence is impeccable. Early on, she had to do everything almost on her own, frequently engaging the assistance of the board members along with dependable volunteers around the country. She is the face for AACUC in a variety of ways and she is very thoughtful in her decision making endeavors. I am a firm believer that in order to grow, one has to make mistakes, yet become resilient in the processes being flexible at every interval. Renée exemplifies this principle.
When we finalized Renée's position as President/ CEO, the industry instantly recognized our commitment to change, and, in my opinion, both our growth and relevance to our industry colleagues began to garner momentum.
As the professional face of AACUC, Renée has led us to greater heights through her professional tenacity and focus on our mission. It is amazing to me that it has been ten years with Renée at the helm, and I am grateful for her dedication to our profession via AACUC. It has been a privilege to witness her untiring leadership. I can’t wait to see the next chapter materialize.

Dohnia Dorman
Congratulations, Renée, on 10 years of impact and resilience! This was no easy feat and not for the faint of heart. From a “laptop and a flash drive” to one the credit union movement’s leading organizations, you’ve raised the standard of AACUC and elevated the industry’s consciousness about Black professionals, Black culture, Black Excellence, allyship, marginalized communities and closing the racial wealth gap. You’ve made us all better because of it. Thank you for being an example of being Bold, Mindful and Brave. May God continue to bless and keep you in all you do and all the lives you touch.

Tony Kitt
Wow, 10 years already! Cheers to you on reaching this incredible milestone. When we first met at the Ocean’s Prime restaurant in Beverly Hills in Feb 2020, who knew our relationship would grow deeply from there. I have watched you thrive, and I truly appreciate your commitment and passion to the AACUC. You are and were the right leader to usher the organization into what it has become … a true force for our industry. You continue to inspire me and those around you with your dedication and positive spirit. Thank you for your leadership as it’s such a vital part of the AACUC journey. Here’s to celebrating your achievements and looking forward to many more years of success together!

LaSonya Berry
In the course of her tenure at AACUC, Renée has increased the impact and influence of the organization. I am thankful for her making me a part of the leadership team and the AACUC community. Here’s to the legendary Renée Sattiewhite… "A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don't necessarily want to go, but ought to be."
-Rosalynn Carter

Adrian & Zelda Johnson
Screaming Congratulations!!! Celebrating the “Simply The Best” woman that you are.
10 years of helping to change the game in the credit union world. I once read “It’s Not What We Have In Life But Who We Have In Our Lives That Matter”. Love from the former AACUC Chairman & First Lady (2018-2020)

Ty Muse
Ten years of leading an organization is nothing to take lightly. Let alone to lead over those 10 years with a level of passion and energy that is measurable and able to be felt from a distance. I admired Renée's leadership from a far for the first 7 years of her role at AACUC. It has been an honor to get to know her better and see her work in action up close for the past 3 years. Congrats Ms. Renée. I hope you enjoy many more years of service.

Ben Hering
Ms. Renée,
When I think of what it means to be a leader, someone I seek to model my actions and my words after, I think of you. You're so much more than a mentor to many of us - you're the reason we get up in the morning, energized to serve the credit union community.
Thank you for bringing authenticity, passion and energy to AACUC. Thank you for bringing YOU to the movement.
With love, Ben

Carolyn Jordan
Renée, it’s hard to believe that it has been 10 years since you took the reins as CEO of AACUC. Congratulations! You have taken our organization to the next level and transformed it in a way that is truly extraordinary. But having met you in the early days, your influence has always been an integral part of AACUC. I remember back at an early conference in the 2000’s, I purchased one of your training cassette tapes from Sattiewhite Training Productions. The topic was about building your career in business, and it really resonated with me as I was building my credit union career and interested in all I could learn to get promoted and move ahead as an African American female professional. I listened to your voice on that tape daily on my commute to the credit union and you inspired me. I also followed your advice, and it worked! One nugget of wisdom I remember was preparing for and dressing the part of the next job you want and not just the role you are currently in. Renee, you have set an exceptional example for so many women and all people across the credit union movement nationally and globally. You have been inspiring others for decades and now your influence is being felt and experienced by a whole new generation. You stay busy, but you always make time to chat, connect and make everyone in your sphere feel very special. I feel so blessed to know you, my friend. You are truly a phenomenal woman, and I want to thank you for your leadership! With much love in the spirit of celebration from Texas.

Latonya Allen
Congratulations on 10 amazing years of service and leadership, Queen Renée! Your passion and commitment have beautifully embodied the vision of transformative growth. You haven’t just transformed AACUC; you’ve changed lives in the most profound ways. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without your guidance and love. Meeting you a decade ago was a turning point in my life, and I am forever grateful for everything you’ve done—not just for me, but for so many others. Your impact is truly immeasurable!

Deborah Walker Fears
Commitment
Honesty (because don’t ask a question if you don’t want the truth!)
Energy
Enthusiasm
Regal
Success
Thoughtful
Optimistic
Tenacious
Extraordinary
Neoteric
Renée, your impact this past decade has been exceptional. Thank you for being the Queen that you are, and for consistently straightening the crowns of those around you!
Hugs, Deborah

Espy Poblano
Ms. Renée,
Happy 10th anniversary! Your leadership and vision have not only transformed AACUC but the industry as a whole. I find myself constantly inspired by your passion and dedication.
I still fangirl over your ability to navigate challenges with grace and insight, and I admire how you empower each of us to reach our full potential. As we celebrate this milestone, I’m excited to see what the future holds. I have no doubt that under your guidance, we will continue to achieve great things together.
Wishing you immense success, good health, and happiness in the years to come!
Ruth Shirley
When I joined AACUC many years ago my connection to Renée was immediate. One of my fondest memories is our early morning meet up (unintentional) in Seattle, WA. Our conversation has stayed in my mind and the encouragement in my heart. Thank you, Renée, for always being a beam of bright light. Congratulations on 10 years of service to the AACUC! With love, Ruth

Opal Tomashevska
Queen Renee, your words have built us into warriors when needed, leaders when called, and royalty when ready. You, however, are a force beyond words, you are a fierce connector in any space and trailblazer to a future we only dreamed. What you have done in a decade, most couldn’t fathom in a lifetime. We bear witness to your greatness, and it allows us to stand in our own. Thank you for choosing us, thank you for leading us. Congratulations on ten years of leadership and cheers to many more.
Aisha Everett-Khalif, affectionately known to Ms. Renée as Aisha with 5 Kids
One of the first things I heard Renee say was the quote above. I remember hearing it and thinking, wow, this woman is a force! For me, she has lived up to that belief and so much more. I believe the way a person leads others is a reflection of their personhood. I’ve experienced Renee’s leadership in a variety of ways including the time I’ve spent volunteering with the AACUC and in our personal conversations. I’ve witnessed her live out what I envision when thinking of Black Excellence, and she continues to raise the bar. Renee listens intently, shows up unapologetically, loves fiercely, and represents exceptionally. If ‘lifting while climbing’ were a person, it would be Ms. Renée Sattiewhite. It’s for these reasons and so many more that I am grateful for her and all the ways she encourages each of us to be our best selves, every day and every opportunity afforded. Congratulations on 10 years of impact!
Ashley Franklin
Queen Renée is a force to be reckoned with to say the least. She is the epitome of grace and excellence and an inspiration for us all. I remember the first time I had an opportunity to see her in action, at my first AACUC conference and I thought, who is this and who can I get to introduce me to her. I am grateful that I have had the pleasure to serve alongside such a titan in the credit union movement. I am grateful for her passion, for the African American Credit Union Coalition and for the advancement of DEI initiatives across these United States, that she has engineered. This is God’s work and who better to do it then one of His angels. Thank you, Ms. Renée, for all that you do to uplift, motivate, inspire, encourage, enlighten, and launch the generations into the future! Love you! Ashley Franklin, West Coast Chapter President, Vice President of Branch Operations SchoolsFirst FCU
Diane Rector
Congratulations Renée on reaching another milestone in your journey with AACUC. I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for your hard work and dedication. Your commitment and passion for what you do and have done, have contributed significantly to the success of AACUC. Under your leadership at AACUC, you have successfully expanded tiers for corporate partners, significantly increased donations and sponsorships and grown the number of corporate partners. Notably, under your leadership, secured AACUC’s first legacy corporate partner, TruStage, which made a $1 million direct cash contribution to the AACUC Future Fund.
Also, under your leadership, the AACUC DEI Leadership Academy for Financial Professionals, Cross-Cultural Exchange Program, and training courses were created. Additionally, under your leadership, the AACUC was awarded the 2022 Anchor Award, which is considered the Nobel Peace prize in the credit union industry. These achievements represent just a few of the many accomplishments during your tenure.
Renée, if someone were to ask me to describe you as an outstanding leader of AACUC, this is what I would say:
- Visionary: You have a clear and inspiring vision for the future.
- Empathic: Understands and cares for the needs of others.
- Decisive – Makes confident and timely decisions
- Charismatic: Inspires and motives others through personality and charm
- Innovative: Brings creative solutions and drives progress
- Resilient: Remains strong and composed in challenging situations
- Integrity: Maintains high ethical standards and honesty
- Collaborative: Encourages teamwork and values input from others
- Inspiring: Motivates others to do their beast and aspire for more
- Strategic: Plans effectively for long-term success
- Adaptable: Is flexible and open to change, leading through uncertainty
- Empowering: Enables others to grow and take responsibility
- Authentic: Stays true to yourself and your values
- Passionate: Deeply committed to their work and the credit union movement
- Influential: Has a strong ability to shape opinions and drive change
Renée, it has been an honor to know you and be part of your journey with AACUC!
Happy 10th Anniversary!
Diane Rector
Adeline Nukuna
Renée,
Congratulations on your 10-year milestone at the AACUC!
I am honored to celebrate this remarkable achievement with you.
Your commitment to AACUC has driven significant change and growth within the credit union industry, nationally and internationally. Your expertise, passion, and leadership have made a significant impact in empowering communities through diversity and financial inclusion. I am so proud of your achievements.
But beyond your professional success, your heart truly sets you apart. Your selflessness and uncompromising dedication to helping others are a shining example of Christ's love.
You bless everyone around you, from the janitor at the airport, to the taxi driver, employees, colleagues, friends, and acquaintances.
Whether through everyday encounters or professional endeavors, you make a lasting impact.
Your light inspires me to live differently. You have taught me the value of actively seeking opportunities to bless others. Your influence has elevated me personally, professionally, and in my relationships.
Thank you for being an amazing friend and a blessing to so many.
As you celebrate this milestone, may your path continue to shine with God's love, and may your future be filled with continued success and impact.
I declare Psalm 91 over you.
Thank you for being a reflection of God's love.
I love you, dear Renée.

Stacy Bryant
Happy 10th anniversary to a truly remarkable leader, Renée!
Your dedication, brilliance, and deep commitment to philanthropy have not only shaped the financial services industry but have also left an indelible mark on the lives of so many— including mine. As a trailblazer and a powerful advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the credit union industry, you’ve paved the way for others to follow. Your passion for creating spaces of opportunity, fairness, and compassion has been more than inspiring— it has been life-changing.
Because of your wisdom, mentorship, and heart, my career and life have blossomed. I’ve learned from your example, not just how to lead but how to lead with integrity and purpose. The values you’ve lived by, the impact of your work, and your constant dedication to lifting others up have touched both me and my daughters. We are stronger, more empathetic, and more empowered because of the path you’ve carved.
I am profoundly grateful for all that you are and all that you’ve done. Thank you for being a role model, a mentor, and a beacon of light in this industry— and in my life. Here’s to many more years of continued impact, and may your legacy of change and generosity continue to inspire generations to come.
Shellee A. Mitchell
I think of Renée as a phenom. As Renée positioned AACUC through social, racial, and cultural adversities, I believe that AACUC stands as a reputable and visionary organization for the credit union industry.