And Then Some is a saying which has significant meaning for Keith Burton, CEO, Revity Credit Union, formerly known as GCS Credit Union. He believes in “doing what’s expected and then some” in all aspects of his life, especially at his credit union and has a plaque featuring the saying in his office as a reminder to always embrace this attitude. “The ‘And Then Some’ spirit is truly the difference between being average and great. It can make the world a better place” he said.
“People. I love serving people and have loved serving the members and employees of Revity Credit Union” said Keith when asked about his favorite part about working at the credit union. “I didn’t know what a credit union was when I started here in 1986. I worked for Household Finance, then found my home in credit unions. It really did not take me long to know this is where I belonged.”
Keith started as Collection Manager of then Granite City Steel Employees Federal CU. He became active with the Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) and the chapters immediately and credits Roger Brainerd (former ICUL Regional Director) and Doug Callies (former CUNA Mutual Group, now TruStage, Representative) for helping him get involved. “Roger and Doug were two of first people from outside our credit union that I met and were very passionate about the movement.”
“We had a fun chapter, and everyone came together. I remember the ‘Challenge of the Chapters’ and competing against other chapters from across the state,” said Keith, referring to a semi-athletic competition featuring teams from about half of the 28 chapters in the early 1990s. “I also recall organizing and attending chapter meetings with an average attendance of 75 or 80 and some topics attracting 200 and more people.”
He also includes going to Washington D. C. for Operation Grass Roots as a memorable time. “In the early 90’s credit unions from all over the US showed our unity against taxation. That was an amazing experience from a learning and advocacy prospective. We took a bus overnight and then organized on the mall in DC to advocate on what makes us different and why we should not be taxed. If it had not been for getting involved in the movement and the chapter structure early on, I am not sure I would have connected to the mission so quickly.”
While there have been changes and challenges at credit unions over the years, Keith believes the spirit of credit unions, their mission and identity, remain strong. “Credit unions continue to have a positive influence on communities and their members,” he said.
“The pace of consolidations in our industry is concerning along with the regulatory challenges and overreach that is not helping. We need a balance of maintaining our ability to serve our mission of #peoplehelpingpeople while running a safe and sound operation. Compliance and regulation are needed but should not prevent you from doing the right thing for our members. We are here to serve them”.
Keith served on the ICUL Board of Directors from 1990 – 1993 and said former League staff members Dan Plauda, Steve Olson, Con O’Mahoney, George Fiegl and Don Edwards were helpful and supportive during the early years of his career. “The Illinois League has been and continues to be absolutely great for credit unions” he commented. “Our league is second to none when it comes to supporting credit unions and the system. The current league staff has definitely upheld this standard and then some.”
Mark Holshouser, former CEO of GCS CU, was a positive influence for Keith and hired him in 1986. He also appreciates Tammy Wofford, who has been with the credit union for 41 years, for her help, insight, and dedication. “The three of us worked directly together for 26 years. Tammy and I have now worked together for 38 years. We all made each other better”.
“It is impossible to name everyone as there have been so many wonderful people that I have had the fortune to work with,” said Keith. “Our success has been a result of the collective efforts of our volunteers, members, and employees (past and present). We would not be who we are without each of them. I have been very fortunate to have been surrounded by some great people.”
He encourages people who are new to the credit union movement to get involved by learning the history of credit unions and how they fit into financial services. “We truly make a difference with our members and their communities.” he said. “Our future relies on keeping the passion alive while remaining relevant in today’s world.”
Speaking of passion, Keith says it is alive and well in Southern Illinois. “We have a group of CEO’s that meet monthly through a virtual meeting that Kevin Shaw helps coordinate. All of us have been around each other for many years and discuss current events and trends along discussing different issues that we have. It is truly unique and inspired by the passion we all have for each other and our industry.”
He also believes that we stay true to ourselves, individually and collectively, and spend time improving yourself every day. “Young leaders are promoted because they have shown the skills and intangibles to succeed. Don’t become someone different or change because of a title. Just become a better version of you and improve daily.”
Keith has always lived in Southern Illinois and is active in the Granite City community. He plans to continue his involvement and stay in the area after retiring from the credit union. He and his wife, Josie, have been married for 39 years and have three children Carey, Andy, and Matt. “All three are married and live within 25 minutes of us,” he said.
“This summer, we welcomed three grandchildren in 3 months, giving us a total of four,” said Keith. Carey and her husband Cameron have two children, Emery and Olivia. Andy and his wife Rose have one child, Vivian. Matt and his wife Taylor also have one child, Brady. “As you can see, they will keep us busy for sure. It will be a lot of fun!”
When he is not spending time with his family, Keith will be golfing, hiking, volunteering a bit, and traveling. “I have been very fortunate. How lucky am I to have represented such a great credit union, its members, employees, families, and communities. The journey has been incredible, and then some!”
