Howell’s elevated role enriches gender and racial diversity at executive level 

LANSING, Mich. — LAFCU is pleased to announce the promotion of Robyn Howell to executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Michigan credit union.

In her new role, Howell is responsible for overseeing and guiding LAFCU's activities to fulfill the credit union's goals as defined by the CEO and the board of directors. Additionally, Howell ensures that LAFCU operates effectively while upholding its strong financial foundation.

"Robyn's track record as an accomplished leader, coupled with her exceptional people and communication skills, has garnered immense respect within our organization," said Patrick Spyke, LAFCU CEO. “As LAFCU crosses the significant milestone of $1 billion in assets, Robyn's appointment to this new and vital role is a strategic step forward. She is a proactive individual, and her influence will undoubtedly shape the future of LAFCU as we continue to provide exceptional service and innovative solutions to our valued members."

Howell serves on LAFCU’s 10-member executive team, of which she is one of six females and one of three persons of color. This is her third promotion since joining LAFCU in 2017 as the credit union’s human resources manager. She was promoted in 2018 to vice president of human resources and to chief human resources officer in 2021.

“I'm excited by the opportunity to support our board, members, and employees in this new role, and I'm looking forward to learning even more through Pat's mentorship. We have ambitious goals that we aim to achieve collectively as a united team,” said Howell.

Before joining LAFCU in 2017, Howell worked in human resources for an international Tier One supplier to Detroit automakers for 11 years. 

Howell’s community service is exemplified by her involvement in various charitable initiatives and board service. She holds board positions with Boys and Girls Club of Lansing and the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. Howell has extended her generosity to Sleep in Heavenly Peace, emphasizing her dedication to helping children in need sleep better. She has also devoted her time to Habitat for Humanity, contributing to the noble cause of building homes for those less fortunate.

Howell is a resident of Holt. She holds a bachelor’s degree with a double major in psychology and black studies, graduating with honors from The College of Wooster in Ohio. She earned the credentials CHRS as a Certified Human Resource Specialist from Michigan State University and is an alumna of Leadership Lansing, a Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce talent initiative designed to develop a new generation of community leaders. 

About LAFCU
Chartered in 1936, LAFCU is a not-for-profit financial cooperative open for membership to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Michigan and to businesses and other entities located in Michigan. The credit union serves 74,000 members and holds over $1 billion in assets. Named a Best Credit Union to Work For, LAFCU offers a comprehensive range of financial products and services as well as an expanding complement of financial technology solutions. Members enjoy benefits such as low fees, low interest rates on loans, high yields on savings, discounts, knowledgeable employees and nationwide access to fee-free ATMs. A recipient of the national Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award for credit unions, LAFCU enriches the communities it serves by supporting many organizations and causes. To learn more about LAFCU, visit www.lafcu.com. 

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