41 GoWest Credit Union Professionals Among the Newest WCMS Grads

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on August 27, 2025

On July 24, the newest graduates of the Western Credit Union Management School (WCMS) were honored at the 63rd graduation ceremony held in Bridges Hall of Music at Pomona College in Claremont, Calif.

The “Chi” class of 2025 had 139 graduates, including 41 from the GoWest region, who took part in the three-year program that is designed to transform students into passionate, strategic credit union leaders through rigorous collegiate-level head and heart education. Students at WCMS attend intensive two-week leadership educational programs for three consecutive summers and have three examinations, two projects, and several virtual and in-person sessions.

Paige Beffort, GoWest’s Manager of CU Development and a 2024 WCMS graduate, participated in this year’s program as a Graduate Assistant. “Returning to WCMS as a Graduate Assistant after graduating with the 2024 Phi class was such a privilege,” shared Beffort. “The Chi class began their journey during my second year, and being there to cheer them on as they crossed the finish line was incredibly special.

“Watching the WCMS staff and faculty continue to pour into future credit union leaders, this time from a different vantage point, was a powerful reminder of how this program shapes the movement’s future,” continued Beffort. “The impact of WCMS goes far beyond the classroom, and it’s an honor to be part of something that continues to inspire and equip the next generation.”

One student from the GoWest region, Rene Celeridad, a Software Development Manager at Harborstone Credit Union, received “Highest Honors” at graduation while ten other students from the GoWest region earned “Honors” and “High Honors” for their hard work and dedication to the WCMS program. These distinctions were earned based on each student’s performance on the examinations taken by all students at the end of each school year and for their analysis in each of their two major research projects (based on their credit union) completed between sessions.

Congratulations to all of the GoWest graduates!

Highest Honors

Rene Celeridad, Harborstone Credit Union

High Honors

David Charlton, Rogue Credit Union
June Gardner, Global Credit Union
Marianne Scarzell, ICCU

Honors

Krystal Campbell, NuVision Federal Credit Union
Josh Davies, Mountain America Credit Union
Ben Davol, Rogue Credit Union
Justin Jahn, Avenir Financial
Tyson Magney, STCU
Missi McCloskey, Numerica Credit Union
Matt McCoy, STCU

For credit union professionals interested in attending WCMA, Angel Vazquez, a Branch Manager at Campco Federal Credit Union and 2025 graduate, highly recommends it. “WCMS is 100% worth it,” shared Vazquez. “The program gives you a deep understanding of the credit union movement, how credit unions operate, and the challenges and opportunities in our industry. Just as important, you build relationships that truly last a lifetime. WCMS gives you the chance to grow, expand your network, and find your people.”

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