Markland recognized for driving growth and transformation at New York City’s largest credit union; MCU also honored as a finalist in four additional categories
NEW YORK (November 6, 2026) — Municipal Credit Union (MCU) announced today that Chief Executive Officer Kyle Markland has won the Executive Leadership – President/CEO award in the $4 billion and higher asset category at the 2026 Credit Union Times Luminaries Awards. The national honor recognizes Markland’s leadership in guiding MCU through a period of significant growth, modernization and expanded service to New Yorkers.
Markland was recognized at the fifth annual Luminaries Awards ceremony, held November 5 at the JW Marriott Bonnet Creek Resort in Orlando, Florida. MCU was also named a finalist in four additional categories recognizing its branch transformation, marketing achievements, financial leadership and emerging talent.
Since becoming CEO in 2020, Markland has led MCU’s growth from approximately $3 billion to more than $5 billion in assets, while expanding its membership to more than 650,000 and strengthening its financial position. Under his leadership, MCU has broadened membership eligibility across New York City, modernized its operations and member services, invested in employee development and expanded its community impact through the MCU Foundation.
“I’m grateful for this honor, but it really reflects what we’ve accomplished together at MCU,” said Markland. “We have an extraordinary team that believes New Yorkers deserve more from their financial institution. That’s what ‘We Get NYers More’ means to us — making financial services more accessible, providing more personal support and helping our members build stronger financial futures. Our employees bring that commitment to life every day.”
“Kyle has brought a clear vision to MCU and challenged us to rethink how we serve our members,” said Toni-Ann Sforza, MCU’s Chief Operating Officer. “From transforming our branches to investing in our people and improving the member experience, his leadership has helped turn that vision into meaningful progress. We’re proud to see him receive this national recognition, and equally proud that so many of our colleagues and teams were recognized as finalists.”
In addition to Markland’s award, MCU received finalist recognition in four categories, all within the $4 billion and higher asset tier:
Executive Leadership – C-Suite: Chief Financial Officer Frank Madeira was recognized for strengthening MCU’s financial performance and helping guide strategic investments in branches, technology and member services. His leadership supported results including $54.1 million in net income and an 11.21% net worth ratio.
Rising Star: Regional Director Shardenay Palmer was recognized for her leadership of seven branches and approximately 100 employees. Under her direction, the region increased member satisfaction by 10% and achieved 146% of its membership acquisition goal. She also introduced new coaching, collaboration and employee recognition initiatives.
Branch Experience: MCU was recognized for transforming its branch service model by expanding the roles of 60 tellers into Member Service Representative positions. The initiative equips employees to assist with a broader range of financial needs while making branch visits more convenient and personalized for members.
Excellence in Marketing: MCU’s “We’re Here For It” campaign was recognized for connecting the credit union’s brand with the financial goals and everyday lives of New Yorkers. Within six months, the campaign reported a 66% increase in brand awareness, a 60% increase in brand consideration and 25% year-over-year growth in new membership.
The Credit Union Times Luminaries Awards recognize individuals and organizations advancing innovation, financial well-being and member service across the credit union industry. Winners were selected by a panel of independent industry judges.
The honors add to a growing list of recent workplace recognitions for MCU, including being named one of Crain’s New York Business’s Best Places to Work, receiving its third consecutive New York’s Best & Brightest Companies to Work For distinction, and earning its second consecutive Great Place to Work certification in 2025.
About Municipal Credit Union
Established in 1916 in New York City, Municipal Credit Union is the oldest credit union in New York. By providing a full range of financial services to municipal employees, police officers, firefighters, teachers, health care workers and others, MCU has grown to $5.2 billion in assets and over 650,000 members. Today, MCU membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in New York City. MCU operates 17 branches across New York City. MCU is an equal opportunity lender and deposits are insured to at least $250,000 by the National Credit Union Administration. To learn more, visit nymcu.org.