VyStar Facts
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4th Quarter | 2025
Featured in this Issue
President/CEO Brian Wolfburg reflects on many of the milestones we accomplished together in 2025.
Read More
From building adaptive Halloween costumes to sorting food for donation, VyStar employee Joseph always finds ways to make a difference.
Read MoreA Year of Growth, Momentum and Purpose
At VyStar, we understand how important it is to have a financial partner you can rely on, especially in times of change and uncertainty. Throughout 2025, many individuals and families have faced challenges related to the rising cost of living, growing household debt and even the federal government shutdown. Through it all, our focus has been to help you feel confident in your financial future.
While this year has brought its share of challenges, it has also been one of incredible progress. VyStar continues to grow, innovate and strengthen our connection to our members and the communities we serve — with your needs at the center of every decision we make. As we look back on what we’ve accomplished together, I hope you feel reassured knowing you can trust VyStar to be there for you.
Better Banking on Your Terms
Whether you prefer to bank with us in person, online or on the go, we’ve made meaningful improvements this year to ensure every interaction is easier, faster and more personal.
- Through the launch of our Digital Storefront, we can better provide you with the products you need while you work toward your financial goals. With a pre-approval in hand, you can reduce the steps it takes to apply for a loan, saving both time and money.
- Additionally, we have continued to make investments in recruiting, training and technology in our Contact Center, which has significantly reduced wait times and improved the member experience.
- And with a 4.8 rating on the App Store and a 4.7 rating on Google Play, the VyStar Mobile app ranks among the top-rated financial services apps nationwide.
Meanwhile, our teams have been hard at work expanding access in the communities we serve. Construction is underway for our upcoming Hamlin branch in Central Florida, and additional locations like Kingsland, Georgia, are on the horizon.
We’re also working hard to support more students in local schools. We recently finished the renovation of our Ribault High School branch, and we will soon be celebrating the opening of our 20th high school branch at Melbourne High School.
Programs that Empower
Our work goes far beyond traditional products and services:
- In partnership with Family Support Services, we launched the groundbreaking Fostering Financial Fitness program designed to provide financial education and banking access to youth in foster care in Florida.
- The VyStar Savings Challenge helped participants save more than $5.1 million, building essential emergency funds.
- The Smart Spending Challenge provided education on responsible credit card use and budgeting, and the winner of our giveaway shared how he planned to use the money to build a nest egg for his family.
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VyStar Insurance Agency1 (VIA) began implementing Canopy Connect, a secure tool that makes it faster and more convenient for individuals to share their current policy information. This enables VIA agents to provide accurate quotes more efficiently, improving the overall member experience.
Together, these accomplishments show what’s possible when we move forward with purpose.
Making an Impact Through Partnerships
Our partnerships play a vital role in connecting VyStar to the communities we proudly serve. From supporting local education and arts to celebrating sports and entertainment, these collaborations allow us to make a meaningful difference for our members and neighbors alike.
- In Florida, we celebrated several achievements in downtown Jacksonville with the opening of VyStar Ballpark, the new home of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, and the groundbreaking of the Hogan Street Link of the Emerald Trail, part of the 30-mile network of trails and parks through the city’s urban core. Elsewhere in the state, we made great progress toward the opening of the VyStar Adventure Theater at the Orlando Science Center, which will inspire generations of young minds to love learning.
- In Georgia, we launched an exciting new partnership with Kennesaw State University Athletics, which enhances the student experience and strengthens our connection to the local community. We also celebrated the opening of the VyStar Amphitheater at The Bridge in Stockbridge, a new name that reflects our shared commitment to community and creativity.
Our teams have also continued to innovate with new products that make managing your money easier and more rewarding. This year, we introduced our Gators® credit card, unveiled a refreshed Orlando Magic card design, and will soon launch a Kennesaw State debit card. These give our members new ways to show pride in their favorite teams while enjoying the benefits of VyStar membership.
A Bright Future Ahead
Through meaningful efforts to strengthen our organization and pursue efficiency, we have significantly grown our Net Income, which is adding to our safety and soundness, and continued to grow our Net Worth, which is already well in excess of the regulatory metric for Well Capitalized. Additionally, next year's plans continue to show strengthening and improvement, which will enable us to do more good in more communities, while further improving safety and soundness.
The progress we’ve made this year lays a strong foundation for what’s next. In 2026, we’ll continue to advance new branch projects, deepen community partnerships and deliver innovative products and services designed to help you thrive in every stage of life. Above all, we’ll remain committed to providing exceptional service, fostering financial wellness and strengthening the communities we call home.
Every milestone we reach begins with you. Thank you for placing your trust in VyStar and for allowing us to be part of your journey. From all of us at VyStar, we wish you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous new year.
Brian E. Wolfburg
President/CEO
VyStar Credit Union
VyStar+ Checking Helps Members Stay Safe from Scams
Helping you keep your account secure is a partnership that is important to us, and VyStar+ Checking2 continues to provide real value by giving our members greater peace of mind.
- At our Tallahassee branch on Tennessee Street, La'Tayjah, a Relationship Specialist, noticed a suspicious mobile deposit and realized a member was being misled into a scam that could have cost $350. She calmly explained the risks and helped protect the member’s money, ultimately guiding them to enroll in VyStar+ Checking for its enhanced fraud protection features.
- At our Altamonte Springs branch, Christian, a Relationship Specialist, showed the true spirit of care when a couple came in shaken by a fraudulent charge. He not only walked them through the dispute process but also helped them set up Online & Mobile Banking and our Card Control app for added security. When he introduced them to VyStar+ Checking, they were thrilled to enroll, leaving the branch feeling safer, empowered and deeply supported.
VyStar+ Checking includes IDProtect® identity theft monitoring and resolution services3. Get up to $10,000 in expense reimbursement, credit and dark web monitoring, alerts and support from a dedicated fraud specialist to help restore your identity.
VyStar Helps Our Members Save Big
When members came into our Roosevelt branch struggling to set up autopay for an auto loan financed through another institution, Faith, a Senior Relationship Specialist, saw an opportunity to do more than resolve a technical issue. She worked closely with the members to refinance their auto loan, saving more than $6,400 in interest and fees. The members were moved to tears and even created a heartfelt video thanking Faith for her care.
Creating a Financial Plan
When a member came into our Regency Commons branch to make a deposit, Donna, a Relationship Specialist, learned she had recently been laid off and was unsure what to do with her severance and 401(k) valued at more than $400,000. Recognizing the significance, Donna connected the member with a VyStar Investment Services representative to better understand her financial picture. During their meeting, the member determined she could retire in seven years while only working part time. The member shared she felt a deep sense of relief with a financial plan now in place.
Gators® Credit Card
There’s never been a better time to be a Florida Gators fan! Introducing the new Gators Credit Card, which lets you show your Gators pride every time you pay — and unlocks some awesome perks! You’ll get 3% cash back on gas, 2% cash back on groceries and 1% cash back on everything else. Plus, you can score up to 20% off tickets for select Gators games.4
Learn more about our Gators Credit Card
The Credit Union Difference: How VyStar Could Save You Hundreds When Buying a Home
Homebuyers in Florida may encounter a hidden cost during closing: the intangible tax. This one-time fee applies to loans secured by property, such as mortgages and is calculated at 0.2% of the loan amount. For example, a $400,000 mortgage would include an $800 intangible tax. Unlike property taxes, this fee is based on the loan amount and is typically paid when the mortgage is recorded.
Credit unions offer a valuable advantage. Both federally and state-chartered credit unions are exempt from the intangible tax under Florida law and federal regulations. This exemption can save buyers hundreds or even thousands of dollars in closing costs.
VyStar is taking things a step further with our Everyday Heroes Mortgage Program. The program is designed for first-time homebuyers in Florida and Georgia who work in public service, including teachers, healthcare workers and first responders. It offers financing up to $1.2 million, fast approvals and digital loan tracking. Eligible buyers may also qualify for zero down payment and no private mortgage insurance.
By financing through a credit union like VyStar, buyers can avoid the intangible tax and access additional perks that make homeownership more affordable and accessible.
Halloween Costumes. Food Donations. River Cleanups. How This VyStar Employee is Bettering His Community
The mist of spray adhesive in the air. The hum of power tools in the background. The crunch of foam under pressure. A silhouette coming to life.
At a worktable inside the Center for Independent Living, VyStar employee Joseph took a box cutter and began whittling the pre-cut legs of a Styrofoam horse. He hadn’t expected to spend the evening sculpting, but with a little encouragement, a lot of determination and memories of brushing horses as his guide, something extraordinary began to take shape.
“I found a hidden talent of my own,” said Joseph, who is on VyStar’s Corporate Safety and Security Team.
Creativity Meets Compassion
Like many people in the weeks leading up to Halloween, Joseph wanted his work to be just right. Once completed, it would become part of an adaptive horse-and-chariot costume for a child at the Center for Independent Living, a Jacksonville nonprofit that empowers people with disabilities through community-based programs and self-directed services. The event was hosted in partnership with RS&H and Center for Independent Living.
Joseph doesn’t consider himself a builder. But he was given the chance, and he wasn’t about to let it go.
“It’s one of those moments where creativity meets compassion,” Joseph said. “You’re not just building a costume — you’re building joy. I can’t wait to see the child’s face that gets to ride in this one-horse chariot!”
Joseph is no stranger to Halloween flair. But his commitment to giving back extends far beyond the holiday season. From building costumes to sorting food donations to giving blood, Joseph is always finding new ways to live out VyStar's purpose to Do Good.
“I’ve enjoyed volunteering sporadically, despite being what some might consider a workaholic,” he said. “With two young kids at home, free time is rare.”
His first official VyStar volunteer event was at Feeding Northeast Florida, where he joined his Corporate Real Estate teammates to sort donations. The opportunity provided insight into Joseph’s trademark sense of humor.
“I was taking my time to ensure everything passed all the safety tests,” he said. “Eventually, I was moved to the role of secondary checker of discarded items. The joke was that I had been demoted already, but I was sure it was a promotion. The debate continues!”
There’s no debating Joseph’s heart for others. Much of his volunteer work is inspired by his daughter (he helps coach her soccer team), and his volunteer calendar has filled with a variety of events: dismantling airplane seats, making rice crispy treats, walking alongside rescue animals at SAFE and braving the heat for St. John’s Riverkeeper to collect waste along the riverbanks.
“It had to feel like 105 degrees out that morning,” he said. “But we weren’t going to slow down in our pursuit to find more abandoned tires and garbage than other organizations. A little friendly competition for a cleaner waterway.”
Joseph’s service extends far beyond physical volunteering. As a platelet donor, he regularly donates to OneBlood to impact lives.
“It feels good to Do Good,” he says. “Whether or not you can see the effect of your work immediately.”
His philosophy on volunteering is simple but deeply felt: “It’s about showing up, being present and offering what you can — your energy, your skills, your care.” He believes that genuine effort creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to step forward.
Crafting Connection Through Service and Spirit
Joseph credits VyStar’s Good is everywhere for amplifying that impact. VyStar employees totaled over 8,000 hours of volunteerism during this year's celebration.
“The variety of opportunities to give back is incredible,” Joseph said. “I’ve been inspired by so many associates and leaders who Lead by Example.”
Joseph’s favorite quote sums it up best: “Doing the right things for the right reasons.”
And that’s exactly what he’s doing — whether he’s building a chariot, hauling tires from a riverbank, coaching soccer or donating platelets to save a life. Each act of service may look different, but together they form something remarkable. Piece by piece, like the horse he built, Joseph is helping craft joy, connection and community that lasts far beyond Halloween night.
See What's Coming Up
Every Saturday
Jacksonville, FL
VyStar Free Saturdays at MOCA
November 22
Orlando, FL
Florida Blue Classic Fan Fest
Official Credit Union
November 23
Orlando, FL
Mennello Museum Free Family Fun Day
Presented by VyStar Credit Union
December 6
Winter Park, FL
Winter Park Christmas Parade
Parade Participant
December 11 - 27
Jacksonville, FL
Jacksonville Historical Society Gingerbread Extravaganza
Sponsor
December 12 - 14
Jacksonville, FL
First Coast Nutcracker presented by VyStar
January 17, 2026
Orlando, FL
City of Orlando MLK Parade
MLK Commission Sponsor | Parade Participant
January 19, 2026
Orlando, FL
City of Orlando MLK Day of Service
US Hunger Sponsor | MLK Commission Sponsor
January 19, 2026
Jacksonville, FL
City of Jacksonville MLK Parade
Sponsor
Explore VyStar Perks
Did you know your membership gives you discounts and special access to many of our favorite destinations? Whether you enjoy visiting museums and zoos, supporting local athletics or checking out other attractions, VyStar Perks is like having an all-access pass to adventure.
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Nominees to Fill Open Positions for 2026 Board of Directors
The Nominating Committee has completed their application review process of candidates applying for the three open Board of Directors positions, each for a three-year term, commencing on March 25, 2026.
Members of the Nominating Committee appointed to consider all eligible applicants and select three candidates were:
Jonathan Hogan, Chair; Victor Blackshear, Vice Chair; William Vivian, Member; John Turpish, Member; Craig Galley, Member.
The Committee nominated the following three candidates, whose names are presented in alphabetical order: Vicki S. Harris, Jennifer A. Lusk and P. Kem Siddons. There will be no election conducted by ballot and no nominations from the floor when there is only one nominee for each position to be filled. Nominations for vacancies may also be made by qualified petition starting on October 31, 2025.5
Vicki S. Harris, Incumbent
Vicki Harris, Vice President for Maximus, with responsibility for Cyber Security Management. She is currently serving on the VyStar Board and Audit Committee. Prior to joining Maximus, she held senior positions with several National and International Banks and Financing Servicing organizations in the fields of Cyber Security and Risk Management. Notable is her dedication to the advancement of the Cyber Security field. She is a native of Jacksonville and has lived on the Northside since 1985.
Jennifer A. Lusk, Incumbent
Jennifer Lusk has served on the VyStar Board of Directors and various committees for several years. Her experience in risk, audit, and compliance focuses on helping to ensure appropriate governance and oversight. Jennifer is currently VP of Internal Audit at Fortegra, where she oversees SOX and IT compliance, ERM, fraud risk, third-party compliance and participates in various process improvement initiatives. She previously served as Treasurer for Northeast Florida IIA and as Treasurer for JWLF.
P. Kem Siddons, Incumbent
Mr. Siddons, a retired naval officer and 30-year Jacksonville resident, has served VyStar as a Director in numerous roles, most recently as Chair. Education includes an Accounting B.S. and Master’s degrees in both IT and Instructional Systems. Mr. Siddons is semi-retired and serves in the community as a 28-year volunteer with the Players Championship golf tournament, actively supports FSU athletics, and serves his local church.
2026 Annual Meeting Notification
Wednesday, March 25, at 5:00 p.m.
VyStar Tower
76 S. Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202