It's a great time to be a member of Goldenwest Credit Union. In December, members earned a bonus dividend for the eighth consecutive year. We have earned the highest possible rating for financial strength from BauerFinancial with five stars. For four consecutive years, Goldenwest has been honored with the "Best of State" award in the credit union category. Furthermore, our dedicated management team and staff were recently recognized by Utah Business magazine as one of "Utah's Best Companies to Work For" for the second time in five years.

Our successes have allowed us to move forward with plans for a new branch office during the first quarter of 2012. We are also in the process of developing new financial products and services to better meet your needs.

In 2012, we will continue to reach out to the communities we serve with special events such as the "Annual Goldenwest 5K For Schools" in support of public education and the "Relay For Life" to benefit the American Cancer Society. We look forward to joining with our members in these worthwhile fundraising opportunities and other important causes.

I am honored to serve as Goldenwest's new President/CEO. It's with fond memories and tremendous gratitude we bid farewell to Shelley Clarke, her husband John, and their sons. Shelley, thanks for your dedicated leadership and vision for Goldenwest. We wish you the very best in your well-deserved retirement.

I express sincere appreciation to my wife, Julie Buhrley Wahlen, and our six children for your support and insight. Thanks for always standing by my side.

Finally, I am grateful to our volunteers, staff and 83,000+ members for allowing me to be part of this great organization for the past 25 years. I look forward to helping Goldenwest achieve even greater heights in the years to come.

I welcome your comments and suggestions at president@gwcu.org and 801-337-8331. I invite you to follow me on Twitter @GoldenwestCUCEO.

With Best Wishes for the New Year,

Kerry H. Wahlen
President/CEO