Mountain America Credit Union expands Arizona commercial lending presence with four SBA specialists. Strengthens credit union's commercial banking team with seasoned SBA lending experts, expanding business financing access, accelerating loan delivery and deepening personalized support for local entrepreneurs. SANDY, Utah, May 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - Mountain America Credit Union today announced the addition of four experienced Small Business Administration (SBA) lending professionals to its Arizona commercial banking team, reinforcing its commitment to deliver small business financing and enhanced support to business members across the Phoenix metropolitan area. Mountain America welcomes James Carroll, Nile Evans, Nicole Hawkland and Kyrstin Noriega to the team. They bring deep expertise in commercial lending, SBA underwriting and the full loan lifecycle - from origination through servicing. Their addition strengthens Mountain America's ability to meet the evolving needs of small business owners across Arizona. "These new team members significantly elevate our ability to serve Arizona's business community," said Michael Griffiths, senior vice president of business banking at Mountain America Credit Union. "Each brings a strong track record in commercial lending and SBA programs, along with a deep understanding of underwriting and the loan process. Their expertise allows us to provide faster, more strategic financing solutions while maintaining the personalized service our members expect." James Carroll adds significant depth to the team with his experience in senior commercial banking roles across multiple financial institutions. He has managed diverse business portfolios and originated loans ranging from $100,000 to $35 million. Carroll's expertise in credit analysis, underwriting, portfolio management and relationship development enables him to serve as a trusted advisor, helping members navigate complex financial decisions with confidence. Nile Evans brings six years of SBA lending experience from his work with regional and community banks. With a background in both business development and lending, Evans provides strategic guidance and customized financing solutions to small business owners throughout the region. Nicole Hawkland offers extensive SBA expertise gained through her work with a nonbank lender. She holds multiple SBA certifications, including credit underwriting, loan processing and closing, servicing, and business development. Her comprehensive understanding of the SBA loan lifecycle allows her to guide business owners with clarity and confidence at every stage of the process. Kyrstin Noriega brings more than 17 years of experience in the financial industry, with a strong focus on commercial real estate lending. Known for her member-focused approach, Noriega is dedicated to delivering an exceptional lending experience. Her ability to build lasting relationships and understand each member's unique needs enables her to develop tailored financing solutions that support long-term business success. Together, this team enhances Mountain America's capabilities in SBA lending, strengthening its underwriting precision, streamlining the loan process and expanding access to capital for small businesses across Arizona. Mountain America continues to invest in experienced talent and robust commercial lending solutions to support the growth and success of business members throughout the communities it serves. About Mountain America Credit Union With more than 1 million members and $22 billion in assets, Mountain America Credit Union helps its members define and achieve their financial dreams. Mountain America provides consumers and businesses with a variety of convenient, flexible products and services, as well as sound, timely advice. Members enjoy access to secure, cutting-edge mobile banking technology, over 100 branches across multiple states and more than 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Mountain America - guiding you forward. Learn more at macu.com.

Mountain America Credit Union partnered with the Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for two events on 7 May 2026, including the Power of Latinas in Business conference and a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the UHCC's new offices inside Mountain America's Business Centre in West Jordan, Utah. As title sponsor, Mountain America hosted the afternoon conference featuring keynote presentations and panel discussions on economic growth, leadership development and opportunities for Latina-owned businesses. Speakers included representatives from Mountain America, the Suazo Business Centre, Utah SOMOS Foundation and other organisations. The evening Contactos networking event celebrated the UHCC's new office space, attended by West Jordan Mayor Dirk Burton, Mountain America senior leadership and local chamber presidents. The partnership demonstrates Mountain America's continued investment in empowering Latina entrepreneurs.

Mountain America Credit Union named Best Workplace for Hispanic Employees by Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Over 30% of Mountain America team members self-identify as Hispanic; recognition highlights commitment to inclusion and opportunity Mountain America Credit Union was recently honored as the Best Workplace for Hispanic Employees of 2025 by the Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (UHCC). Selected through community nomination and a rigorous review by the UHCC Awards Selection Committee, the organization stood out for its strong workplace culture, investment in professional development and dedication to creating an environment where Hispanic employees can thrive. Its leadership as an employer sets an important example for organizations across the state. "We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from the Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce," said Trent Savage, chief human resources officer at Mountain America Credit Union. "Embracing diverse perspectives is not just a workplace priority, it's a reflection of who we are as an organization. We believe that when our employees feel valued and supported, we are better equipped to serve our members and strengthen our communities." Mountain America is deeply committed to supporting underserved and underbanked communities, including Hispanic and Latino businesses, individuals and families. The credit union provides expanded services and invests in areas with growing Hispanic populations. Outreach efforts include participation in consulate events and local branch initiatives. These engagements provide access to trusted financial tools and education, helping individuals and families build confidence, stability and long-term success. "Mountain America Credit Union exemplifies what it means to be an employer of choice for Hispanic professionals. This recognition reflects their intentional commitment to inclusion, leadership development and fostering a workplace where employees feel valued and empowered to grow," said Victoria Petro, executive director of the UHCC. "Selected through community nomination and a thoughtful review process, Mountain America stood out for the strength of its culture and its dedication to creating opportunities for Hispanic employees to thrive. Their leadership sets a meaningful standard for workplaces across Utah." Approximately 30 percent of the credit union's employees self-identify as Hispanic or Latino, supported by a workforce that includes bilingual and culturally knowledgeable team members. These employees play a vital role in creating an environment where members feel understood, respected and confident in their financial decisions. Employee feedback consistently highlights a strong sense of belonging, shared purpose and a member-first mindset. The organization's community investment is also reflected in its physical spaces. On the west side of Salt Lake City, Mountain America partnered with local artists to incorporate murals into new branch and facility developments. These installations celebrate the area's cultural identity while creating welcoming environments for both employees and community members. Hispanics represent a vital and growing force in both Utah and the nation. They make up 18 percent of the workforce and own 14 percent of businesses in Utah. This community is also notably young and influential. With a modal age of 19, compared to 62 for non-Hispanic populations, Hispanics represent the next generation of financial decision makers. The financial guidance and access provided today will shape not only current households but also future generations and a growing segment of the nation's workforce. Mountain America's recognition highlights the importance of fostering workplaces that reflect and empower the communities they serve. By investing in people, culture and community, the credit union continues to build lasting impact across Utah and beyond.