Community Financial Credit Union Appoints Visionaries in Economic Development to Board of Directors

Community Financial Credit Union has appointed two esteemed economic development leaders to its board of directors, Ned Staebler and Johnnie Turnage. Ned Staebler is the vice president of economic development at Wayne State University and CEO of TechTown, and Johnnie Turnage is the co-founder of Black Tech Saturdays and founder and CEO of Evenscore. These professionals were selected by the board based on their impressive commitment to fostering innovation and inclusivity for individuals and small businesses in Michigan.

Community Financial has thoughtfully curated a board of directors that reflects its values and is deeply rooted in Michigan. The outcome is a dynamic group of individuals, each bringing a passion for servitude and a proven track record of community elevation. The credit union proudly celebrates the wide range of perspectives within its leadership, which includes both a female CEO and female board chair. By continuously seeking and embracing new, diverse voices like those of Staebler and Turnage, Community Financial’s leadership evolves to meet the needs of its members.

“At Community Financial, we believe in the power of community-driven leadership,” said Tansley Stearns, president and CEO of Community Financial. “Staebler and Turnange’s respective expertise in economic development, emerging technologies, and entrepreneurship will propel us toward our vision for the future, enriching our strategic initiatives and benefiting not only the credit union but the communities we proudly serve.”

Staebler brings a wealth of entrepreneurial experience to the board. As the vice president of economic development at Wayne State University and president and CEO of TechTown, Detroit’s most established business incubator and accelerator, Staebler has demonstrated exceptional leadership in fostering small business growth. His dedication to equitable economic practices has earned him national recognition as a pioneer in the field.

“Joining the board of Community Financial was a natural decision for me,” said Staebler. “Their commitment to community advocacy is directly in line with my own values, and I am eager to apply my background in economic development to contribute to Community Financial’s meaningful, lasting impact in Michigan.”

Turnage, an award-winning grassroots activist and tech entrepreneur, brings an innovative perspective to the board. He is CEO of Evenscore and has been instrumental in promoting diversity and inclusion to Michigan’s business community through initiatives like Black Tech Saturdays, an organization that fosters the growth of Black tech.

“When we create an environment that supports innovation and growth, everyone in the community benefits,” said Turnage. “I’m looking forward to leveraging my position on Community Financial’s board to celebrate and continue promoting diversity in our communities.”

Community Financial’s leadership reflects its Michigan’s values and priorities. Members have a direct say in the appointment of board members, ensuring that its leadership actively represents their voices. The credit union is proud to welcome Staebler and Turnage as leaders, strengthening its bonds with the community to better serve the needs of all members.

The appointments of Staebler and Turnage underscore Community Financial’s commitment to building a brighter future for its members and the community at large. With a strong leadership in place, Community Financial is poised to continue providing inclusive and innovative financial experiences for all. 

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