Three Michigan Credit Union Leaders Named to Crain’s 2025 Leaders in Finance
Three outstanding Michigan credit union professionals have been recognized by Crain’s Detroit Business as part of its 2025 Leaders in Finance list, which honors influential financial executives in Southeast Michigan. Among a diverse group of leaders in sectors ranging from health care and venture capital to education and entertainment, these credit union champions stood out for their strategic leadership, community impact and commitment to financial empowerment.
Ryan Goldberg – President & CEO, DFCU Financial
At the helm of one of Michigan’s largest credit unions, Ryan Goldberg oversees $7 billion in assets and leads a team of 650 employees. Under his leadership, DFCU Financial has expanded its presence in Florida through three acquisitions, strengthening the credit union’s regional footprint and enhancing services for members with ties to Florida. Goldberg has also championed the growth of commercial and business banking services. Outside of his executive role, he contributes to the community through past service on the Flagstar Foundation board and as an advisor to Florida State University’s College of Business.
Leslie Rorie – Chief Financial Officer, LAFCU
A trailblazer in the Michigan credit union space, Leslie Rorie is the first African American to serve as CFO in LAFCU’s 89-year history. She leads a nine-person team managing finance, asset liability and investment strategies for the $1 billion Lansing-based credit union. Her leadership has already made a tangible difference: by reducing overdraft fees from $32 to 99 cents, Rorie helped save members nearly $1 million in the first quarter of 2025 alone. A committed mentor and community advocate, she is active in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and works with high school students to build financial literacy skills.
Tansley Stearns – President & CEO, Community Financial Credit Union
Tansley Stearns brings passion and purpose to her role leading Community Financial Credit Union and its $1.6 billion in assets. She has transformed the organization’s culture, launched innovative programs like CloseEnuff (which helped save members $900,000) and raised over $2 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Her leadership earned her induction into America’s Credit Union Museum in 2024. Stearns also gives back through service on several nonprofit boards, including as chair of In the Cellar Inc., and has implemented relief programs for cancer patients and their families.
These three honorees exemplify the mission-driven ethos of Michigan’s credit union movement, delivering financial services with purpose, leading with integrity and making meaningful contributions to their communities. Their inclusion in Crain’s 2025 Leaders in Finance is a proud moment for the entire credit union community.
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