As Sunward turns 74, we’d like to take a look at our past through the eyes of one of our longest-serving employees, Carol Ayala. Carol, a Senior Mortgage Loan Officer, has lent 30 years of her time and talents to the Credit Union.
Carol joined Sunward in 1992 as a part-time Teller and Financial Services Consultant at our Juan Tabo branch. After relocating to the Kirtland branch and being promoted to Senior Financial Service Representative (FSR), she took on a new challenge as an IRA/Share Draft Coordinator. Following another move (to Cottonwood) and a return to the Senior FSR role, she returned to the Juan Tabo branch, settling into a successful career as a Senior Mortgage Loan Officer.
Carol’s choice to work at Sunward came down to the close and caring touch for which Sunward is known. “Right from the beginning, I learned that the Credit Union’s philosophy was to provide excellent member service and to take care of their employees,” she says. “That made it a perfect fit for me.”
She’s made good on the Sunward mantra, helping countless members with their financial journeys. “Each of the members I’ve assisted in their time of need has been important to me. Just knowing I was part of helping to provide access to funds needed for debt consolidation or home improvements, or helping to finance the home of their dreams… it’s all very special to me.”
Having served Sunward for nearly half of its existence, Carol has witnessed its notable growth and increased community impact. She’s seen how adding branches has provided more convenience and opportunities for face-to-face, personalized service. Sunward’s commitment to remaining up to date on technology has noticeably improved member satisfaction, too. For example, she notes, “Many members have mentioned how simple it is to apply for a loan online. They also like the convenience of uploading documents in online banking, as well as its ease of use and security.”
Carol is not only an Sunward employee – she is also a proud Credit Union member. “As a member, I have high expectations. We are a not-for-profit organization that offers the highest value and personal service, above and beyond other similar financial institutions,” she notes. In the end, Carol feels her expectations have not only been met, but they are also continually exceeded. “What a great organization I picked to work for,” she concludes. At 30 years and counting, that’s really saying something.
