Announcing the Retirement of Ann Loftis, President/CEO of First Nebraska Credit Union
Message from Julie Beers, Chairperson of the Board
After 32 years of dedicated service, Ann Loftis will retire from First Nebraska Credit Union on February 17, 2025. Ann has played an instrumental role in shaping the credit union’s success, serving in senior management since 2001 and stepping into the role of President/CEO in 2016.
Under Ann’s leadership, First Nebraska Credit Union has experienced significant growth. During her tenure, assets have increased from $115 million to $183 million, loans have grown from $69 million to $122 million, membership has expanded from 13,700 to 17,000 and our capital has increased from $19 million to $25.5 million.
Ann’s vision and dedication have led to the expansion of our Field of Membership to include eight communities in the Omaha and Lincoln metro areas, as well as underserved areas in Grand Island. She played a pivotal role in adding indirect lending services and launching the addition of Financial Fitness Association, further expanding our membership base across Nebraska and Iowa. Ann also oversaw the successful merger of several credit unions, a core system conversion, our name change to reflect a more inclusive mission, the construction of two new branches (including expansion into Elkhorn), and the introduction of innovative technologies like ITMs to enhance member service.
Ann’s steadfast leadership has always been grounded in her commitment to the credit union’s goals and the well-being of our members, ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines and working closely with the Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee since 2001.
In addition to her work at First Nebraska, Ann has been a passionate advocate for the credit union movement, serving on the NCUL Advocacy Committee, supporting key initiatives such as CULAC/PAC, and contributing to the Children’s Miracle Network. Her commitment to excellence and service has made a lasting impact not only on our organization but also on the broader financial community.
Ann’s exceptional leadership, integrity, and dedication have helped First Nebraska become one of the strongest and best-managed credit unions in the state. On behalf of the Board of Directors, our members, and the entire First Nebraska Credit Union family, we extend our deepest gratitude to Ann for her years of extraordinary service. We wish her and her husband all the best in their future endeavors, with hopes for good health, success, and happiness in the years to come.
Dale Kovar Promoted to President/CEO
The Board of Directors is pleased to announce the promotion of Dale Kovar to President/CEO of First Nebraska Credit Union, effective January 1, 2025. From the moment Dale began his career with the credit union, it was clear he had the potential to be a future leader. Over the past several years, we have carefully engaged in succession planning to ensure a smooth transition in leadership. After extensive consideration, we are confident that Dale is the ideal person to guide First Nebraska into its next chapter of growth and success.
Succession planning at First Nebraska is about more than simply identifying future leaders—it’s about fostering a culture of talent development, empowerment, and continuous learning. This approach ensures the long-term strength and stability of our credit union. Since 2016, Ann Loftis has worked closely with Dale, mentoring and preparing him for this leadership role. Through their collaboration, Dale has demonstrated the key attributes necessary to lead First Nebraska into the future.
Dale is a visionary leader with exceptional financial expertise, enabling him to not only set a clear path forward for our credit union but also manage financial risks effectively. His dedication to the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People” remains central to his leadership style, and we are confident that under his direction, First Nebraska will achieve even greater accomplishments in the years to come.
Please join us in congratulating Dale on his promotion to President/CEO. We are excited to see what the future holds for First Nebraska under his leadership!
