We are incredibly grateful to Kelly Korth, Chief Strategic Officer, for her 37 years of service as we celebrate her Retirement as of December 31st, 2024.
Late in 2024, Kelly took the time to reflect on questions about her life and career at Simplicity.
What year did you start at Simplicity, and what was your first job here?
I started in 1987 as a part-time teller.
What other positions did you hold before you became Chief Strategic Officer?
I was the Branch Manager for the Greenwood office, a Loan Officer and Mortgage Officer, the vice president of Lending, the vice president of Sales and Service, and the Chief Experience Officer.
I think that’s it
What has changed about Simplicity in the time you’ve been here?
Great question. We’ve certainly grown. Back then, we had just 13 employees and about $35 million in assets. We now have over 115 employees and are closing in on $500 million in assets.
At that time, too, members had savings passbooks, and we would hand-write their deposits in them. There were ATMs, but other than that, there was no online banking or 24-hour access to their accounts.
Everything we did was a manual process. Members had to come in and actually be in front of a loan office to apply for a loan. We also didn’t have phone extensions, so our one receptionist transferred the calls to the employees wherever they were as they came in.
Social media didn’t exist, so we depended on word of mouth to spread the word about what a great credit union we were.
What has stayed the same?
Even better question. We still have the small credit union feel. No matter how big we get, we still care about what our members have to say.
We know we don’t see all of our members like we used to, so we send out regular surveys and review each one to see what we can do better. We try to get to know our members because we know that finances are one of the most stressful things in life, and we are here to help navigate those waters.
What are some of your favorite memories of your time here?
Oh my gosh! I have so many memories. Working here was more than a job; it was my second home, and it was truly being part of a family. I have so many memories and friendships I will carry with me always.
What are the most important lessons you’ve learned in your career?
I was blessed to have been hired by Pat Wesenberg and worked beside her for most of my career.
She taught me how to be a great leader. You have to lead by example, encourage and empower others, value everyone’s contribution, and live by our core values at work and at home: Cooperation, Leadership, Integrity, Creativity, and Dependability.
What is one thing you would like people to know or remember about you after you retire?
I truly cared about and loved Simplicity, its members, and its employees. Hopefully, over the years, I have made a positive impact on everyone in some way.
Kelly wasn’t the only one reflecting on her time with Simplicity. Here are some touching tributes from members of our Executive Management Team.
Kelly has created a legacy that will be emulated for years to come. From funny banter to teaching moments to pushing so many of us to our potential. She has given us the tools to lead this CU with confidence, curiosity, and compassion. Her influence will be seen not just in words, but in actions and paths of those she has guided throughout the years.
Sarah Arnoldy, Chief Experience Officer
As a leader, Kelly has inspired us with her wisdom, dedication, integrity, and vision. The impact she has made will continue to shape and inspire everyone who had the privilege of working with her. The work family Kelly has helped build, will continue to thrive because of the foundation she has laid.
Jen Stanton, Chief Revenue Officer
Kelly’s 37 years of unwavering dedication to serving our members and inspiring the best in each employee have been truly remarkable. Her genuine care and commitment have shaped our organization and made a lasting impact on all of us.
Nick Faber, President/CEO
Kelly’s Simplicity Family will miss having her here to challenge us, guide us, and make us laugh as she moves on to the adventures her Retirement will bring.
As hard as it was to see her go, we know this isn’t “Goodbye.” She’ll always be in our hearts.