Fortera and Vanderbilt Credit Union Announce Merger Plans
Vanderbilt Credit Union and Fortera Credit Union have announced merger plans to deliver strengthened service, expand innovation, and enhance financial wellbeing for Vanderbilt Credit Union members and the broader community.
The unique partnership preserves Vanderbilt Credit Union’s heritage while adding Fortera’s scale and technology to better serve the Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt Health communities. The combined entity will have $970 million in assets and serve more than 90,000 members worldwide.
“This merger is about growing with purpose. It means better digital tools, more competitive rates and products built around the unique needs of the Vanderbilt community. Members will see more access points, longer hours, and an expanded focus on financial education. Partnering with Fortera helps us move faster while keeping the local service that our members count on,” said Mike McDonald, President and CEO of Vanderbilt Credit Union.
Vanderbilt Credit Union has long partnered with Fortera to provide mortgage services to its members. Building upon a successful relationship, this partnership adds Fortera’s operational strength to Vanderbilt’s deep commitment to its academic and healthcare communities.
“At Vanderbilt Credit Union, our purpose has always been to serve the people who make Vanderbilt great. This partnership with Fortera allows us to do that on a larger scale by combining trusted relationships with new technology and resources to deliver even greater value for our members,” said Mario Avila, Board Chair, Vanderbilt Credit Union and Assistant Professor of the Practice of Management at the Owen Graduate School of Management at Vanderbilt University.
Vanderbilt Credit Union will retain its name and brand identity, pending approval. This unique merger partnership represents growth guided by common values and joint strengths to create greater opportunity, stability, and long-term member benefit.
“This merger is the thoughtful alignment of two credit unions who share a commitment to people, purpose, and progress. Together, we’re honoring the legacy that defines Vanderbilt and its credit union community while smartly growing for the future,” said Jennifer Ventimiglia, President and CEO of Fortera Credit Union.
Subject to approval, the merger is expected to be finalized in the third quarter of 2026. Members can expect uninterrupted service and consistent communication throughout the merger process. Members will receive information about the merger and voting process in the coming weeks.
About Fortera Credit Union
Originally chartered in 1954 to serve families of the United States Army Base at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Fortera Credit Union expanded as a full-service financial cooperative to now serve Tennessee and Kentucky regions, as well as eligible residents in Alabama and Arkansas. Headquartered in Clarksville, TN, Fortera has more than 83,000 members worldwide and over $918 million in assets.
About Vanderbilt Credit Union
Started in the basement of Kirkland Hall in 1959, the Vanderbilt Credit Union (VCU) has grown into a full-service financial institution serving the faculty and staff of Vanderbilt University, the staff of VUMC, Vanderbilt University Alumni, and Vanderbilt University students. Owned and operated by its members, VCU has grown to serve nearly 7,000 people through services including checking, savings, money market accounts, auto loans, personal loans, credit cards, and mortgage loans. With a location on the Vanderbilt University campus at 2900 Vanderbilt Place and second location off the main lobby of the Vanderbilt University Hospital in Nashville, VCU is focused on meeting the banking needs of the Vanderbilt Community.