January 2026 CEO Note

Happy New Year! There’s something powerful about a fresh start - the chance to reset, focus habits, and step forward with renewed purpose. At M1, our purpose remains clear - empower people on their journey of wellbeing. And when we look back at 2025, we see proof that this purpose creates extraordinary outcomes. 

We were honored to be named Michigan Credit Union League’s Outstanding Credit Union of the Year, recognized as a Best Places to Work for Women, and celebrated as one of American Banker’s Best Credit Unions to Work For—three years running. Our communities lifted us up with multiple local awards, and Experian honored us with the Vision Award for our excellence in financial empowerment. 

These accolades reflect what truly matters - a caring, engaged team deeply connected to our mission, and members who trust us. With a record-high Net Promoter Score of 79.4 through our Voice of the Member program, you’ve told us we’re delivering on our promise to take care of you.  Thank you! Your validation inspires us the most. 

As we celebrate this momentum, we’re not slowing down. I encourage you to refresh financial habits and take advantage of these ways we help you thrive:  

• Savvy Money credit monitoring in our Online/Mobile banking gives you daily credit score updates, information on what is impacting your score, credit monitoring alerts, helpful ideas on elevating your credit health. 

• Change It Up™ turns everyday purchases into effortless savings by rounding up your debit card purchases to the next dollar and puts that change into your savings.  I still recommend your savings be our Money Markey, which earns the highest interest on your first $500 of savings.  

• Greenlight money app and debit card for kids and teens. They earn, save, and spend responsibly while parents set controls, send money instantly, and track progress. Automate allowances, tie payouts to chores, set savings goals, and celebrate milestones! 

• “LEARN” in the menu of our website gives you access to financial calculators, fraud prevention tips, articles and resources on borrowing, first-time life events, financial assessments, saving & budgeting, insurance, and retirement.  You will also find the appointment button for our free financial counseling. 

• Expanded Access! Our new Saginaw branch (4955 Bay Road) is thriving, and we are thrilled to be bringing more joy to Bay City at 3697 E. Wilder Road in 2026. With these two new locations, we’re here for you wherever you are on your journey through the region.  

A new year is more than a calendar page. It is a reminder that we can become a better version of ourselves. At M1, we are committed to doing just that, for you. We will continue listening and offering knowledge and solutions (keep an eye out for exciting new product announcements!) to empower you. 

Cheers to a new year filled with growth, connection and a better tomorrow.