Message from the CEO: Celebrating 90 Years

In 2026, South Carolina Federal Credit Union will celebrate an exciting milestone: our 90th anniversary. As a member of this credit union since I was six years old and your President and CEO for the past 22 years, I am grateful for the opportunity to reflect on where we started, how we've grown, and what our organization stands for today.

Our story began in 1936, when 14 employees at the Charleston Navy Yard each contributed five dollars to establish the Charleston Navy Yard Employees Federal Credit Union. At a time when financial security was uncertain for many, those 14 founders shared the belief that we are stronger when we support one another.

• 1965: We opened our first free standing facility at the Charleston Naval Shipyard in North Charleston.
• 1979: We opened a five-story headquarters and operations building on Rivers Avenue in North Charleston, which is still in use and symbolizes our longstanding presence in the community.
• 1994: With the closing of the Shipyard, we changed our name to South Carolina Federal Credit Union to more fully represent the credit union's footprint and the members we serve.
• 2004: We reached $1 billion in assets.
• 2007: For the first time, we were named one of South Carolina’s “Best Places to Work,” an honor we have continued to receive year after year.
• 2013: We established the South Carolina Federal Credit Union Foundation to streamline and expand employee-driven charitable giving, donating to nonprofit organizations across our communities.
• 2020: We reached $2 billion in assets.
• 2023: We were recognized by Forbes as the best credit union in South Carolina.

Today, we serve 150,000 members with 31 financial centers in seven markets across the state. Although we have grown considerably over the past 90 years, we remain focused on what matters most:
 

• Financial safety and soundness. Keeping your money safe and secure has always been – and always will be – our top priority. Our credit union embodies a conservative financial strategy, and we prioritize safety and soundness over quick gains. This approach helps us navigate challenging economic environments while maintaining stability for our organization and our members.
• Member service. Our members are our friends, family, and neighbors. We treat our members like we would want to be treated – with integrity, kindness, and care. By acting as your financial advocate, we work to help you meet your goals and ensure you're prepared for wherever life takes you.
• Giving back. Our communities are the heartbeat of our credit union. Every year, we are proud to partner together with impactful nonprofits across the state donating both time and money. To date, more than $2 million has been donated by the South Carolina Federal Foundation to the communities we serve, and our employees are passionate about giving back, as well. They spend thousands of hours volunteering in their communities so that we can make a difference where it matters most.

While 90 years is an incredible accomplishment, we are even more excited about what’s ahead. In 2026, we’ll be celebrating this milestone with a year full of gratitude, recognition, and fun, including hosting a Member Appreciation Day. Stay tuned for other exciting announcements in the coming months.

Thank you for joining us on this journey and for choosing to place your trust in South Carolina Federal. It is an honor to serve you, and we are grateful to have you as part of our family.

Scott Woods, CPA
President and CEO