Dear Members:

Every organization has its “unsung heroes,” and in many cases, those are the dedicated volunteers who serve on boards of directors. At Corporate One, our board of directors plays a vital role in shaping our strategic vision and guiding organizational leadership. The board is composed of nine directors, each elected by our member credit unions or by general consent, and every director’s contribution helps ensure we continue delivering value to all our members. 

With that in mind, I’m pleased to share the results of the 2026 Board of Directors election. Three directorships were up for election, each carrying a three-year term that will expire in 2029. We asked the newly re-elected directors a few questions to help you get to know them better, and I hope you enjoy this brief spotlight on their experiences and perspectives on serving Corporate One. 

Phillip R. Buell 

CEO/President of Superior CU in Lima, Ohio, since 2003 

Has served on Corporate One’s Board of Directors from April 2001 to April 2016 and from April 2019 to the present 

Q: What motivated you to continue serving in this leadership role?    

A: Corporate One plays a vital role in delivering payments, investment, and liquidity solutions that credit unions rely on every day. Continuing to serve on the board allows me to stay closely engaged in shaping Corporate One’s strategic direction as the organization thoughtfully prepares for the future. That perspective—and the opportunity for open, meaningful discussion at the board level—helps ensure we remain strong, relevant, and responsive to member needs. Ultimately, my motivation is rooted in supporting Corporate One’s success so our member credit unions are empowered to fulfill their own missions.  

Q: How has your perspective on board service evolved since your first term?    

A: Today’s corporate environment is far more complex than when I began my first term on the board. Corporate One has experienced significant growth while also navigating an evolving payments landscape shaped by non-traditional financial providers. While products and services will continue to adapt, Corporate One remains firmly committed to its core mission—helping credit unions succeed.   

John A. Graham 

President/CEO, Expree CU in Frankfort, Kentucky, since 1990 

Has served on Corporate One’s Board of Directors from April 2017 to the present 

Q: What does being reelected to the board mean to you personally?  

 A: I am truly honored and grateful to be re-elected to Corporate One’s Board of Directors. I sincerely appreciate the confidence our members have placed in me by allowing me to continue serving in this role. My experience on the board has been incredibly rewarding, offering invaluable opportunities to learn from leaders such as Tammy Cantrell, EVP and Chief Product Strategist; Prashanta Pradhan, EVP and Chief Information Officer; and the entire Corporate One team. This exposure and collaboration not only strengthen me professionally but also bring meaningful benefits back to our credit union.  

Q: What do you wish more members knew about the work the board does?  

A: The board is comprised of nine seasoned credit union professionals representing institutions from across the country. Together, we have a clear understanding of our role—providing thoughtful governance without micromanaging day-to-day operations. At the same time, we take our responsibility for oversight and strategic input seriously, particularly when it comes to shaping future products and services. A recent example is the board’s active support of the new Multi‑Seller Prime Auto Securitization Program, which reflects our commitment to innovation and long-term value for members. 

Daniel A. Souers 

President/CEO, Gulf Winds CU in Pensacola, Florida, since 2022 

Has served on Corporate One’s Board of Directors from April 2023 to the present  

Q: What part of board service do you enjoy the most? 

A: I love being at the heart of the credit union movement alongside leaders who share the same cooperative DNA. Corporate One exists to serve the very credit unions that are helping their members and communities succeed financially.  It is an honor to serve these amazing credit unions across the nation. 

Q: What opportunities do you see ahead for Corporate One and its members?  

A: Corporate One will continue to be a leader in the immediate payments revolution for credit unions.  No matter the future, I am excited to see Corporate One continue to help credit unions of every size compete and deliver what members expect.  

We are grateful for the time, expertise, and commitment our directors bring to Corporate One on behalf of our members. Their willingness to serve reflects a deep dedication to collaboration, leadership, and the cooperative principles that guide us. Congratulations to our re-elected directors, and we thank them for their continued service as we work together to support the success of our member credit unions now and in the years ahead. 

Best,