Diversified Members Credit Union CEO Sati Smith Named to African American Credit Union Hall of Fame
Diversified Members Credit Union (DMCU) announced that CEO Sati Smith will be inducted into the African American Credit Union Hall of Fame, becoming the first Michigan credit union CEO to receive this national honor. The Hall of Fame, established by the African American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC), recognizes leaders whose innovation, advocacy and service have advanced the credit union movement and expanded access to financial opportunity.
“It is an incredible honor to be recognized by AACUC and to stand among such inspiring leaders,” Smith said. “At DMCU, we believe everyone deserves access to tools that build financial stability and generational wealth — and I’m truly proud to represent Michigan in that mission.”
Smith, who began her credit union career as a teller, became DMCU’s first African American CEO in 2023. Her 25-year career in financial services and her journey from a single mother earning her GED to a C-suite leader have inspired colleagues and community members alike. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Wayne State University and a Master of Arts from Ashland Theological Seminary.
“Sati’s induction into the African American Credit Union Hall of Fame is not only a remarkable and well-deserved honor, but also a celebration of what she’s inspired in others,” said DMCU Chair Anthony Lamerato. “From her first day as a teller to leading DMCU as its first African American woman CEO, she has shown what it means to lift others while climbing. We are thrilled to call her our leader and proud to see her make history yet again, this time as Michigan’s first AACUC inductee.”
Under Smith’s leadership, DMCU has grown its assets to more than $500 million, serving nearly 30,000 members across branches in Detroit, Clawson and Novi. The credit union continues to expand its reach with financial coaching programs, inclusive products and a strong community presence.
A passionate advocate for financial inclusion, Smith also serves on the boards of the Detroit Public Safety Foundation and the Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan, and is an ambassador for the Voices of Black Women cancer research study.
“Sati’s recognition from the African American Credit Union Hall of Fame is an extraordinary achievement and a proud moment for Michigan’s entire credit union community,” said Patty Corkery, President/CEO of the Michigan Credit Union League (MCUL). “She leads with compassion, authenticity and a deep commitment to helping people build brighter financial futures. This honor reflects not only her accomplishments, but also the heart of what credit unions stand for. We are thrilled to see her leadership recognized on the national stage.”
Smith will be formally honored at the AACUC Networking Event on March 3, 2026, during the Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in Washington, D.C.
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