AUBURN, Ala. — Auburn University Credit Union (AUCU) is pleased to announce the addition of Samuel Washington as the credit union’s Chief Financial Officer. Washington brings a unique combination of financial expertise, credit union experience, and a passion for service that aligns with AUCU’s commitment to integrity, accountability, and member success.
A Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), and Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Washington has built his career helping organizations strengthen financial performance, enhance operational efficiency, and navigate an increasingly complex regulatory environment.
Prior to joining AUCU, Washington served as a Senior Accountant with Third Lake Solutions, where he led financial reporting for private equity, venture capital, real estate, and credit funds. He managed complex GAAP financial reporting, investor reporting packages, and fund accounting while implementing process improvements that shortened month-end close cycles and enhanced reporting accuracy.
Previously, Washington spent nearly six years with Doeren Mayhew, where he specialized in auditing credit unions and credit union service organizations (CUSOs). During his tenure, he led audit engagements from planning through issuance, supervised audit teams, assessed enterprise risk, evaluated internal controls, and advised executive leadership on opportunities to strengthen governance, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance.
His understanding of the credit union movement extends beyond the audit room. Washington began his financial services career at USF Federal Credit Union, serving members directly while supporting branch operations, lending services, and financial counseling. That experience gave him a firsthand appreciation for the people-first philosophy that distinguishes credit unions.
“Samuel brings a proven track record of strategic financial leadership, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to serving members and communities,” said Dave Bradford, President and CEO of Auburn University Credit Union. “As our credit union continues to grow and evolve, Samuel’s expertise will play an important role in strengthening our financial position, supporting innovation, and ensuring we remain focused on delivering exceptional value to our members. We are excited to welcome him to the AUCU team.”
Washington’s commitment to service extends well beyond his professional career. He serves as a Board Advisor and former Board Member for the Solivita African Heritage Cultural Club Education Fund (SAHCCF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding educational opportunities through scholarships. A former scholarship recipient himself, Washington has helped the organization celebrate more than two decades of impact, awarding more than $160,000 in scholarships to over 70 undergraduate and graduate students. He also serves as a mentor to college students, reflecting his passion for investing in the next generation of leaders.
A native of Miami, Florida, Washington earned both his Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Master of Business Administration from the University of South Florida. While at USF, he served as Vice President of the Accounting Society, was elected to two terms as a Student Government Senator representing the Muma College of Business, and co-founded Bulls United Power, an organization dedicated to creating volunteer and community engagement opportunities for students.
Washington is an active member of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners and the Association of Accountants and Financial Professionals in Business. He also volunteers as Academic Director for Ambition Academy, LLC, where he supports the organization’s financial operations while encouraging students to pursue academic excellence.
“I’ve always believed that strong financial stewardship is about more than numbers—it’s about building trust,” said Washington. “I’m honored to join Auburn University Credit Union and look forward to helping strengthen the credit union’s financial future while supporting its mission of serving members and making a positive impact throughout the communities it serves.”
Outside of work, Washington enjoys traveling, skydiving, bowling, exploring new cuisines, and solving Rubik’s Cubes, including participating in competitive events.
As Chief Financial Officer, Washington will oversee the credit union’s financial strategy, accounting, budgeting, asset and liability management, financial reporting, investments, regulatory reporting, and long-term financial planning. Working closely with the executive leadership team and Board of Directors, he will help ensure AUCU’s continued financial strength while supporting strategic growth, operational excellence, and exceptional service for its members.
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About Auburn University Credit Union
Founded in 1960, Auburn University Credit Union is a member-owned financial cooperative dedicated to helping members achieve financial success. Serving communities throughout Alabama and beyond, AUCU provides a full range of personal and business financial services while remaining committed to exceptional service, financial education, and community involvement.
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