Board of Directors

Director Since: 2004 Term: 2022-2025

Lorrie has been a member of the Summerland Credit Union for over three decades and a Director for over 15 years.

In 2013 Lorrie retired from a 25-year career in adult education at Okanagan College; her work ranged from the front lines of the classroom to the visionary work necessary for strategic and program planning.

Since retiring Lorrie authored the best-selling book "Really Good F Words: Your Interactive Guide to Self-Care." She also re-invented her professional career through a return to graduate school and subsequently becoming the founder and owner of Mountain Top Coaching.

"Taking an active role in my community is important to me and I appreciate the opportunity to serve Summerland and its residents through my role as Director of the Summerland & District Credit Union".

Director Since: 2018 Term: 2021-2024

Terri was born and raised in Saskatchewan, where she completed her bachelor of business administration at the University of Regina. Terri and her husband moved to the Okanagan in 2012 in pursuit of a more balanced lifestyle.

Terri is an Employee Benefits Advisor and partner of a local group benefits firm, Navy & Sage Benefits.

“The credit unions’ founding principle of ‘"people-helping-people" really resonates with me as my professional experience over the past 11 years has been focused on human resources. I am excited to join your dynamic board and will bring a fresh perspective to an already amazing team.”

Director Since: 2007 Term: 2022-2025

Sandy was born and raised in Summerland and has spent the majority of his life here. He retired in 2015 after running his own building and renovation business for over 30 years.

As a Director, Sandy has served on every committee and is currently the Chair of the Board. Sandy embraces every opportunity to make a difference in our community, and is currently involved in several community organizations.

“I have been a lifelong Credit Union member wherever I have lived. I am firmly dedicated to the Credit Union principles, and strongly support SDCU’s commitment to our community. I am proud to be a part of the team that has kept our Credit Union strong and independent during some of the most exciting and challenging times in our history.”

Director Since: 2012-2015/2017 Term: 2021-2024

Connie and her husband Bob owned and operated a construction business in Summerland for over 40 years.  

Connie is pleased to bring her experience in leadership, governance and financial oversight to the Credit Union Board.  

“I have always been impressed by the friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism of the staff. What impresses me most; however, is the way in which Summerland Credit Union gives back to the community by supporting projects and initiatives that focus on making Summerland a better place for all.”

Director Since: 2015 Term: 2021-2024

Dan retired from his 30-year career as a Paramedic with BC Ambulance Service in 2007. Since then he has been able to utilize his experience and expertise working as an independent business consultant. He has also spent 5 years working at the Justice Institute of BC, teaching conflict resolution, facilitation, mentorship training and negotiation.  

In 2017, Dan was fortunate enough in playing a role in implementing a partnership between Summerland Credit Union and Summerland Secondary School to setup an entrepreneur program for students in grades 10 thru 12. The program was very successful in its inaugural year, with four businesses being established in Summerland!  

Dan and his wife Jana moved to Summerland in 1994 and consider themselves very fortunate to have called Summerland their home for the past 27 years. Now that Dan is semi-retired, he is excited to dedicate his time, energy and skills to our community.

“I find the philosophy of the Summerland & District Credit Union very nicely aligns with my philosophical approach to life; a strong sense of community, sharing knowledge, skills, expertise and people helping people.”

Director Since: 2022 Term: 2022-2025

Abhishek was born and raised in Summerland and continues to hold strong ties to the community. He completed a Bachelor of Applied Science in Chemical Engineering and is now completing his Master’s in Computer Science specializing in Machine Learning.  He currently works in engineering consulting, specializing in clean energy solutions.

Previously being a member of the SDCU’s Advisory Committee, Abhishek is now joining Summerland Credit Union as an Interim Director for 2022. He is also involved in several community organizations ranging from social justice movements, community outreach events and climate action initiatives.

“I am excited to be contributing to on-going success of Summerland Credit Union. Having grown up in Summerland and having my first bank account at SDCU, it is humbling to be back in my home credit union as a director and providing my expertise where needed.”

Director Since: NA -Current Term: 2020-2023

Carsten moved to Summerland with his parents over 55 years ago and has lived here ever since. Along with his loving and supportive wife, Val, they raised two children, who have since provided them four grandsons. Carsten and Val were able to purchase their first house in Trout Creek over 45 years ago, and believe this would not have been possible without the support of Summerland Credit Union who gave them their first mortgage. And they have been loyal members ever since.  

At the age of 23 after finishing his apprenticeship in carpentry, Carsten started his own construction company here in Summerland and successfully ran that up until a few years ago when he semi-retired. Currently he is employed part-time as the Property Manager for 16 industrial units in Summerland. Carsten had previously served on the Board of Directors for 20 years.  

While on the Board, Carsten completed all the mandatory training and courses offered by the credit union system to be classified as a qualified director.  

“I have been very fortunate to have served on most of the committees several times and also chaired the Building Committee for two years during the last major renovation. I look forward to giving my time and energy to serve the membership and support the Summerland Credit Union in its future growth.”

Director Since: 1996-2002/2005 – Current Term: 2020-2023

Bev first joined our Board in 1996, she is now serving her 7th term as a Director; during those 21 years she has had an opportunity to sit on, and Chair, several committees; 5 years as Board Vice Chair and 3 years as Board Chair. 

Bev is retired from School District #67. During her 29 year career with the District she attended several courses at the Justice Institute of BC; which have proven to be invaluable tools when dealing with personnel issues, problem solving and decision making.

 “My husband, Clint and I are long-time residents of Summerland and SDCU has been our financial institution of choice and has played a large role in our lives for over 50 years – Meeting our every need from teenagers to retirees!”

Director Since: 2020 -  Current Term: 2020-2023

Abby is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and a member of credit unions for 6+ years. Her interest in working on the Board stems from a desire to give back to the community and applying her professional expertise to maximize her contribution. 

She decided to pursue a career in accounting because of an interest in the financial sector. In addition to having proven knowledge of financial statements and processes, one of the main areas of study in the CPA program is in Strategy and Governance.

With this knowledge, Abby can provide value to the audit and governance committees. She also provides value by representing the millennial generation – the largest in the workforce and one of the greatest sources of potential growth.  

As an Auditor in the public sector, Abby provides feedback on board structures and composition, as well as analyzing financial statements. She is also employed by the CPA Western School of Business as a course facilitator. The ongoing training received through this employment allows her to stay current with changes to accounting and tax legislation.  

“My volunteer involvement with organizations who focus on improving the quality of life for those living in the South Okanagan includes: the Walk for Alzheimer’s, the United Way Charitable Campaign and work as a Mentor and Financial Literacy Volunteer.”