Max Villaronga, President and CEO of Raiz Federal Credit Union, has been recognized as a 2026 inductee into the African-American Credit Union Coalition Hall of Fame. He is the first El Pasoan and Latino of Puerto Rican descent to receive this honor. The induction ceremony will take place on March 3, 2026, in Washington, D.C. This honor acknowledges leaders whose efforts promote financial inclusion, access, and community strength within the credit union movement.
Celebrating Community Leadership
For Villaronga, this honor signifies more than just a career achievement. It reflects the collective courage, trust, and drive of Raiz members and the broader El Paso community. “This recognition is humbling, and it belongs as much to the Raiz family as it does to me,” said Raiz President and CEO Max Villaronga. “Our members inspire every decision we make, with their hopes, efforts, and faith fueling our purpose. I am proud that this honor reflects well on El Paso, and I am dedicated to continuing our efforts to uplift underserved communities.”
Commitment to Underserved Communities
Under Villaronga’s leadership, Raiz has prioritized creating opportunities, building connections, and supporting growth in underserved neighborhoods. By improving programs related to inclusive lending, financial education, and local partnerships, Raiz continues to uphold the cooperative principle that people helping people can transform lives.
About the African-American Credit Union Coalition
Established in 1999, the AACUC is a national 501(c)(3) organization that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in the credit union industry. By championing the 8th Cooperative Principle of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the coalition provides essential professional development, advocacy, and networking opportunities for individuals and organizations that support African American and minority communities.
Villaronga joins the 2026 inductees: Creighton P. Blackwell, Chief Community Impact and Public Affairs Officer at Coastal Credit Union; Leigh Brady, President and CEO of the State Employees’ Credit Union of North Carolina; Carolyn Jordan, Chief Growth Officer at Neighborhood Credit Union; and Sati Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Diversified Members Credit Union.
Learn more about the AACUC at www.aacuc.org, Facebook: @AACUC1, or Instagram: @aacucctc.
