Celebrating Cathy Brorson: A True Unsung Hero of the Credit Union Movement
We’re proud to celebrate former Kitsap Credit Union employee Cathy Brorson, who has been recognized by America’s Credit Union Museum in the new exhibit “Woven in History: A Tapestry of Unsung Heroes.” The exhibit honors individuals whose passion, innovation, and dedication have made lasting impacts on the credit union movement—and Cathy is a shining example of that spirit.
Cathy began her Kitsap Credit Union journey in 2000 as Outreach Coordinator, where she brought to life programs that strengthened both the credit union and the communities it serves. Her work helped thousands of students and adults gain valuable financial skills and confidence, often turning lessons into lasting life changes.
Cathy’s passion for financial education began with her own early experiences. “We had no financial education in school, so I made every mistake in the book,” she said. “When I joined Kitsap Credit Union, I saw a chance to help others avoid those same struggles—and that passion grew from there. If I could help one young person to avoid some of the same financial pitfalls I experienced, then that was the most rewarding thing to me!”
That passion turned into a career dedicated to helping others. At KCU, Cathy expanded youth programs into 21 high schools across four counties, reaching thousands of students each year. “Seeing students have those ‘aha’ moments and actually change their financial behavior was so rewarding,” she shared.
Her influence stretched far beyond the classroom. Cathy took every opportunity to share her enthusiasm for financial education at the state and national levels—teaching, mentoring, and advocating for others to carry the credit union mission forward. “We can do so much more, and are better, together,” she said.
Even after retirement, Cathy is proud to see her work live on. “It’s exciting to see the programs still thriving today,” she said. “Kitsap Credit Union realized early on the value of coordinated financial education, and they continue to improve the lives of those they serve. I’m proud to have been part of that.”
When asked what she hopes others take away from her story, Cathy offered heartfelt advice: “Just start. Build relationships, meet people where they are, and focus on community. Never lose sight of the power of working together.”
Cathy’s warmth, creativity, and leadership continue to inspire—at Kitsap Credit Union and throughout the credit union movement. Her recognition as one of America’s Credit Union Museum’s Unsung Heroes is a fitting tribute to a career devoted to helping others grow, learn, and thrive.
When asked about how it feels to be featured in the museum, Cathy shared, “I am honored and touched to be included in this exhibit. My career centered on positively impacting our members and community through financial education and outreach. This recognition is validation that those efforts made a difference, and I’m truly humbled.”
You can view Cathy’s feature and other inspiring stories in the “Woven in History: A Tapestry of Unsung Heroes” exhibit at America’s Credit Union Museum.
Cathy began her Kitsap Credit Union journey in 2000 as Outreach Coordinator, where she brought to life programs that strengthened both the credit union and the communities it serves. Her work helped thousands of students and adults gain valuable financial skills and confidence, often turning lessons into lasting life changes.
Cathy’s passion for financial education began with her own early experiences. “We had no financial education in school, so I made every mistake in the book,” she said. “When I joined Kitsap Credit Union, I saw a chance to help others avoid those same struggles—and that passion grew from there. If I could help one young person to avoid some of the same financial pitfalls I experienced, then that was the most rewarding thing to me!”
That passion turned into a career dedicated to helping others. At KCU, Cathy expanded youth programs into 21 high schools across four counties, reaching thousands of students each year. “Seeing students have those ‘aha’ moments and actually change their financial behavior was so rewarding,” she shared.
Her influence stretched far beyond the classroom. Cathy took every opportunity to share her enthusiasm for financial education at the state and national levels—teaching, mentoring, and advocating for others to carry the credit union mission forward. “We can do so much more, and are better, together,” she said.
Even after retirement, Cathy is proud to see her work live on. “It’s exciting to see the programs still thriving today,” she said. “Kitsap Credit Union realized early on the value of coordinated financial education, and they continue to improve the lives of those they serve. I’m proud to have been part of that.”
When asked what she hopes others take away from her story, Cathy offered heartfelt advice: “Just start. Build relationships, meet people where they are, and focus on community. Never lose sight of the power of working together.”
Cathy’s warmth, creativity, and leadership continue to inspire—at Kitsap Credit Union and throughout the credit union movement. Her recognition as one of America’s Credit Union Museum’s Unsung Heroes is a fitting tribute to a career devoted to helping others grow, learn, and thrive.
When asked about how it feels to be featured in the museum, Cathy shared, “I am honored and touched to be included in this exhibit. My career centered on positively impacting our members and community through financial education and outreach. This recognition is validation that those efforts made a difference, and I’m truly humbled.”
You can view Cathy’s feature and other inspiring stories in the “Woven in History: A Tapestry of Unsung Heroes” exhibit at America’s Credit Union Museum.
October 10, 2025