VyStar Facts
Stay connected to your credit union anytime — even on the go.
2nd Quarter | 2026
Featured in this Issue
Honoring the Difference We Make Together
At VyStar, we are proud to help our members and their families work toward their financial goals. Sometimes that means creating a plan to help them pay off debt. Other times it means teaching a child good habits through their first savings account. No matter the goal, we see it as an opportunity to Do Good.
Recently, three national publications recognized VyStar’s continued focus on innovation and service across the communities we serve.
Time Magazine named VyStar among America’s Best Financial Services of 2026 for both checking and savings accounts. The distinction is based on feedback from more than 20,000 U.S. consumers who evaluated financial institutions on key factors including customer service, value, trust, digital experience, satisfaction, loyalty and likelihood to recommend.
Fortune also named VyStar one of America’s Most Innovative Companies in 2026. The recognition highlights organizations that demonstrate forward-thinking approaches and meaningful innovation that can support the communities they serve.
Meanwhile, USA Today included VyStar on its America’s Best Customer Service in Financial Services list. The recognition reflects our continued focus on serving members with care, consistency and experiences that align with VyStar’s purpose.
These are meaningful honors, but what matters most is what they represent. They reflect the moments we see every day across our branches, Contact Center and digital channels. Members count on us at every stage of their financial lives, whether they are making rent payments, saving for a new car or growing a business. Along the way, they also expect us to help protect them with tools like cell phone protection and dark web monitoring available through VyStar+ Checking.
This is the work behind the recognition and it is why we are especially proud of these awards. More than products or rankings, they are about people. And they are made possible by the trust you place in us.
One member, Hans, recently shared about the “peace of mind” he feels banking with VyStar.
“There was a time I needed quick support, and instead of feeling like I was navigating a system, I felt like somebody actually had my back,” he said. “That kind of trust is rare, and it’s why VyStar stands out to me.”
Another member who has been with us for over 20 years said he appreciates how “everything is in one place and is easy to manage.”
And another member who recently joined VyStar said doing so was “the best decision I’ve made in a long time.” “They were able to help me with my signature loan,” Victor said. “My payments were affordable and it's just the best credit union all around. I’m glad I’m with VyStar.”
For over 70 years, we have grown alongside the communities we serve across Florida and Georgia. The trust reflected in comments like these is why we continue to invest in people, service and tools that help members move forward. Today, we proudly serve more than 1 million members, and we remain focused on what matters most: helping each one move forward with financial confidence.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your financial journey.
Brian E. Wolfburg
President/CEO
VyStar Credit Union
VyStar Shred to Protect Day
Protecting your personal information starts with how you manage and dispose sensitive documents.
VyStar Credit Union invites you to join us for Shred to Protect Day at select branch locations on Saturday, June 6, from 9:00 a.m. to Noon.
This free community event is part of our ongoing commitment to fraud prevention — helping you securely dispose of confidential documents and reduce your risk of identity theft. Local nonprofit organizations will also be on-site, joining us in educating and empowering our community to better protect themselves from fraud.
This is a great opportunity to declutter responsibly while safeguarding your identity.
What to Shred? Old bank statements, financial records, credit card bills, loan documents, utility bills, medical records, tax returns, prescription labels, junk mail, and expired IDs and credit cards.
Help us make an impact — spread the word and invite others to join us in keeping our community safe.
More Than a Day: Meredith Anido’s Year-Round Tribute to Veterans
Veterans Day is a time to honor courage, sacrifice and service — and for Meredith Anido, it’s also a reminder of why community matters so much.
Meredith isn’t a veteran, but her life has been shaped by military service in many meaningful ways. As a former Army spouse and the current Chair of our VETS VRG, she has turned that personal connection into a powerful mission: to uplift, support and celebrate veterans, military spouses and their families. Her work is especially timely around Veterans Day, but it’s a year-round commitment.
“The military wasn’t just part of my life — it was my life,” said Meredith, who is a Compliance Analyst at VyStar. “I walked beside it, carried its burdens and held space for its sacrifices.”
A Personal Connection That Inspires Service
Meredith’s connection to the military runs deep. With two uncles in the Army, a niece in the Air Force and generations of her children’s relatives in uniform, service is woven into her family’s story. And her own.
“The military runs through our veins,” she said. “This isn’t just a role for me. It’s a calling.”
That calling extends to her children. Her two teenage sons have grown up volunteering alongside her, turning compassion into a shared family value. Her youngest inspired her to coach his sports team, reminding her of the power of presence and leading with heart. “His energy and joy reminded me how important it is to lead and support others with heart,” she said.
For Meredith, volunteerism is an activity and also a spiritual practice.
“It’s where my faith meets action, where my gratitude becomes generosity,” she said. “It’s how I honor the blessings I’ve received by becoming a blessing to someone else.”
Meredith’s dedication to service is evident in the 414 hours she volunteered in 2025 and in the way she consistently uplifts those around her, inspiring colleagues to discover the joy of giving back. In recognition of this, she was awarded 2025 VyStar Volunteer of the Year in the Individual Contributor category.
Creating Impact Through Action
Under Meredith’s leadership and with the unwavering commitment of VETS VRG members, the group continues to champion initiatives that uplift veterans, military families and the broader community. These highlights offer just a glimpse into the meaningful work and events led by the VETS VRG.
How VyStar is Helping Minds of the Future Change Lives, Rethink Local Education
Jamie Thomason remembers the day she walked into Minds of the Future Academy during her senior year. She didn’t want to be there. School felt like a chore, something to avoid. Jamie’s absences piled up, and expulsion loomed.
Then came the conversation that changed everything.
Dr. Cynthia Smith, the school’s principal, didn’t lecture Jamie. She listened.
“It wasn’t like she was a principal anymore,” Jamie said. “She felt like a mom.”
That moment shifted Jamie’s perspective on education. Within a year, she became the salutatorian of the school’s first graduating class. Today, she’s thriving at Edward Waters University, enrolled in the honors program.
“I am very involved in school right now,” Jamie said. “I wouldn’t be involved in school like I am without the support from Dr. Cynthia Smith.”
Stories like Jamie’s are the reason why Dr. Smith is working to expand Minds of the Future Academy, a private, STEAM-focused school designed to offer flexibility, personalized learning and limitless opportunities for K-12 students.
The school currently utilizes space inside a Boys & Girls Club in Jacksonville, but with help from VyStar’s Commercial Lending team, it will soon open a new facility to reach more families and further bring Dr. Smith’s mission to life.
Getting Out of the Group Chat
Dr. Smith, a 16-year educator who began her career as a classroom teacher in the Duval County School District, has always been driven to help students like Jamie.
Minds of the Future Academy began as an idea in 2018 — a private school built on innovation, real-world learning and family partnership. But the name didn’t come easily.
At first, Dr. Smith pitched “On the Road to Learning” in a family group chat. The response? Brutal honesty.
“They were like, ‘That's too generic, and it’s boring,’” Dr. Smith said.
She had already printed the magnets and key chains with the name, but she kept brainstorming. She wanted something that reflected the school’s purpose: changing — and elevating — the way students think about learning and their future.
Then a lyric from Whitney Houston’s “Greatest Love of All” came to mind: “I believe children are the future.” The line stuck and Minds of the Future Academy was born.
Free Tuition, Big Expectations
The STEAM-focused school provides free tuition from preschool through 12th grade, saving families thousands thanks to the Step Up for Students program. It covers part of the tuition, and in return, parents are required to volunteer 30 hours each school year.
Parents pitch in with cafeteria duty, classroom observations and more. It’s a partnership that keeps costs low, engagement high and the school’s mission accessible to more families.
“It gives parents an opportunity to see what their child is learning,” Dr. Smith said.
For parents who do not fulfill the volunteer requirement, tuition is $14,235.10 a year. That is close to the average tuition for a private school in Florida, according to the Private School.
At Full Capacity
On a recent morning, the halls of the Boys & Girls Club on West 25th Street in Jacksonville — the current home of Minds of the Future Academy — were filled with greetings and laughter.
Staff called out, “Good morning!” Students exchanged smiles and morning pleasantries. And then, from a nearby classroom, the sound began to build. Feet pounded the floor, hands clapped in rhythm and voices rose together in a joyful chant:
“M-O-T-F-A!”
The beat launched students into their step routine in their step class.
At 2:45 p.m. each weekday, students and faculty pack up and moves to their second location on North Main Street for after-school programs, making room for the Boys & Girls Club to begin their programs. Overflow classes even spill into Andrew Jackson High School in order to accommodate the 195 students at the school.
“These past four years we’ve been at capacity,” Dr. Smith said. “This is why I need that building.”
Expanding with the Help from VyStar
For two years, Dr. Smith searched for financing to purchase a permanent home for the growing school. Lenders from other banks repeatedly turned her away. In turn, she was forced to turn away students because the building could not match the demand for enrollment.
In 2025, she visited VyStar’s Riverside branch and met a relationship specialist. Two days later, Senior Commercial Banker John Blackwell visited the school.
“Dr. Smith is an amazing person, educator and dear friend,” John said. “Her passion for her kids is infectious.”
What followed was constant communication, creative problem-solving and a shared belief in what the school could become. Together, they secured financing for a 27,000-square-foot brick building on Carmichael Avenue in the St. Nicholas neighborhood. It is set to open in January 2026.
Providing access to capital for local business owners is an important part of VyStar’s work. Supporting Dr. Smith’s vision was a natural fit.
“It was complete optimism that we could get it done,” Dr. Smith said. “The process was so smooth for me.”
Dr. Smith envisions a STEM-focused campus with robotics, media production and multipurpose space.
“I can’t wait to see where it goes,” she said. “The layout of the facility is amazing.”
This article is part of a series on local business members who have received support from VyStar. Read more stories.
Interested in a business loan?
Fill out the form on the Business Loans page to request a call back.
For immediate assistance with applying for a business loan, call 904-474-6542 or toll free at 888-453-3167.
Debt Payoff Challenge Spotlights
We invite you to watch First Coast Living as co-host Jordan Wilkerson and VyStar financial educators help VyStar's Debt Payoff Challenge participants share their debt challenges and build a plan to reduce debt while strengthening long-term financial well-being.
From a young couple learning to merge their finances to members preparing for an auto loan or facing college debt, see how participants put tips and tools from the Debt Payoff Challenge to work as they get closer to their financial goals.
See What's Coming Up
Every Saturday
Jacksonville, FL
VyStar Free Saturdays at MOCA
2nd Sunday of Each Month
Orlando, FL
Mennello Museum Free Family Funday
Free admission with special arts and crafts projects
Presented by VyStar
June 4
Jacksonville, FL
City of Jacksonville Military Spouses Night Out
VyStar is a Presenting Sponsor
June 6
Tallahassee, FL
Ronnie Harrison Free Youth Football Camp
June 10 & 17
Jacksonville, FL
Film at WJCT Studios
June 10 - Singin' in the Rain
June 17 - Dark Passage
VyStar is Presenting Sponsor
June 20
Jacksonville, FL
Melanin Market Juneteenth Celebration
July 3
Altamonte Springs, FL
Red Hot & Boom
Enjoy free live musical performances and fireworks display
July 7-17
Norcross, GA
Boy With a Ball, Write to Lead Literacy Camp
Ongoing
McDonough, GA
Heritage Park Museum
Free Admission
VyStar is a 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.
.png?width=300&name=MMAA-Logo%20(1).png){kind=small}
OFFICIAL RULES
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Entrants may enter to win one (1) $250 Visa® e‑gift card by completing the “Share what you’ve learned” entry form anytime from May 29, 2026 – July 31, 2026 at 11:59 pm. How to Enter: The Sweepstakes may be entered by completing the “Share what you’ve learned” entry form on the vystarfacts.vystarcu.org page or by mail at: VyStar Facts Newsletter Poll, Marketing Department, 76 South Laura Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32202. Online entries must be received no later than July 31, 2026 at 11:59 pm to be eligible for the drawing. The entry must fulfill all Sweepstakes requirements, as specified, to be eligible to win a prize. Incomplete entries or entries that do not adhere to the rules may be disqualified at the sole discretion of VyStar Credit Union (“Sponsor”). Limit one (1) entry per person during the contest period. Use of multiple email addresses, identities, or devices to circumvent this limit may result in disqualification. Eligibility: The Sweepstakes is open to legal residents of Florida and Georgia who are 18 years of age or older at the time of entry. VyStar Credit Union membership is not required to enter or win. Employees of VyStar Credit Union and their immediate family members are not eligible to enter. The Sweepstakes is void where prohibited by law. Drawing & Winner Selection: One (1) winner will be selected in a random drawing conducted under the supervision of the Sponsor on or about August 4, 2026, at 9:00 am EDT. The odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Winner Notification: The selected winner will be notified via the email address provided at the time of entry within five (5) calendar days following the drawing. If the selected winner does not respond within forty‑eight (48) hours of notification, the winner may be disqualified and an alternate winner may be selected. Prize: One (1) $250 Visa® e‑gift card will be awarded. Winners are responsible for all applicable federal, state, and local taxes associated with prize acceptance and use. Communications and Marketing Consent: By entering the Sweepstakes, entrants agree to receive communications necessary for the administration of the Sweepstakes, including winner notification and related follow‑up. Additionally, by participating in this drawing, you give VyStar Credit Union permission to contact you by email at the address you provide to promote its products and services. You may opt‑out of these email contacts by following the unsubscribe instructions in the email promotion. Opting out of marketing communications will not affect eligibility for, or participation in, the Sweepstakes. Rights Granted by You: By entering this Sweepstakes, entrants grant VyStar Credit Union and its designees the right, where permitted by law, to use the entrant’s name, likeness, and submission for promotional, advertising, and publicity purposes without additional compensation, notice, or consent. Privacy: Information collected from entrants is subject to VyStar Credit Union’s Privacy Policy, available at: https://vystarcu.org/privacy‑statement. By entering, entrants acknowledge and agree to the collection and use of their information in accordance with this policy. Liability Release: By participating in the Sweepstakes, entrants agree to release and hold harmless the Sponsor and its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and agents from any claims, damages, or liability arising from participation in the Sweepstakes or acceptance or use of the prize. Modification or Cancellation: The Sponsor reserves the right to cancel, modify, or suspend the Sweepstakes if fraud, technical failures, or other factors impair the integrity of the Sweepstakes, as determined in the Sponsor’s sole discretion. Governing Law: This Sweepstakes is governed by the laws of the State of Florida. Any disputes will be resolved individually in the appropriate court located in Duval County, Florida. Social Media Disclaimer: This promotion is not sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Snapchat, or Google. Questions regarding the Sweepstakes may be directed to: VyStar Marketing Department, 76 South Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202. Email: marketing@vystarcu.org Phone: (904) 777‑6000 Winners List: To request the winner’s name, send a stamped, self‑addressed envelope to the address above. Requests must be received by September 29, 2026. Additional Terms: Gift card usage is subject to the issuer’s terms and conditions https://www.giftcardgranny.com/cardholder‑agreement
Federally Insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.
All accounts and loans are subject to approval. Credit union programs, rates, services, terms and conditions are subject to change at any time without notice. Certain restrictions and limitations apply. ©2026 VyStar Credit Union.