Who We Are
At Oregon State Credit Union
We put people first, offering smart financial solutions and everyday convenience.
Our members own the credit union
Since 1954, we’ve been here for one reason: to serve our members. As a member-owned, not-for-profit credit union, we reinvest earnings into better rates, lower fees, and exceptional service — benefiting you, not shareholders. That’s what sets us apart from banks and drives us to create financial solutions that truly make a difference.
Our history
Our story begins in 1954 with a shoebox and $25
Back in 1954, Bob Coyle — an Agriculture professor at Oregon State College — had a simple idea: help his colleagues with their financial needs. So, he founded Oregon State College Federal Credit Union with just $25 and a shoebox to hold deposits.
In those early days, membership was small and personal. If someone needed a loan, Bob literally carried that shoebox from member to member, gathering enough funds to make it happen. From those humble beginnings, we grew — carefully and purposefully — into a strong, member-owned credit union offering more services, more convenience, and more ways to make life better.
Breaking new ground
By 1960, we celebrated a major milestone — $1 million in deposits! Bob Coyle, who started it all with a shoebox, became our first paid manager, leading the way into a new era of growth.
The following year, we opened our first off-campus branch on Monroe Avenue in Corvallis, making it easier for members to access the credit union they owned.
And when Oregon State College became Oregon State University in 1961, we proudly updated our name to OSU Federal Credit Union — because we’ve always grown with the community we serve.
Innovation takes center stage
In the early 1970s, we introduced Golden Thrift Certificates, paving the way for Money Market options. By the late ’70s, growing competition pushed us to expand even more — adding Share Certificates and a line of credit loan program to give members greater flexibility.
Then came the 1980s — a decade of rapid growth and new possibilities. We rolled out checking accounts, ATMs, IRAs, mortgages, phone banking, and safe deposit boxes, making everyday banking easier than ever. Behind the scenes, we embraced technology with in-house computer systems and a central processing unit, boosting efficiency and setting the stage for the future.
Growing boldly through uncertainty
As membership grew, we expanded beyond Corvallis — adding branches in Benton and Linn counties to serve more members close to home.
From 2002 to 2006, we opened the door even wider by expanding our charter, welcoming residents of Lincoln, Marion, and Polk counties into our cooperative family.
Then came 2008 — a year marked by a global recession. While many financial institutions were closing their doors, we opened a new branch in West Salem, proving our commitment to members when they needed us most. That same year, we were honored as “National Community Credit Union of the Year” by the Credit Union National Association — a proud moment that reflected our dedication to service and community.
A new chapter for our members
In 2014, our members made a bold decision: to move from a federal charter to a State of Oregon charter. Why? To open the door for more people to join our cooperative.
On January 1, 2015, we officially became Oregon State Credit Union, and membership expanded to anyone living or working in 24 Oregon counties.
By 2016, nearly 100,000 members were part of our growing community. That same year, we opened the Sunset Operations Center, a space designed with sustainability in mind — earning Silver LEED certification as a reflection of our commitment to social responsibility.
Evolving technology services
In 2018, we made banking easier than ever — introducing Mobile Check Deposit, a streamlined online account opening system, and a fast online loan application process.
By 2019, we expanded our reach with a new branch in McMinnville, bringing us to 15 locations serving communities across Oregon.
And in 2020, we launched Pay It Now, giving members the power to send and receive money instantly, or transfer funds between accounts — even at other financial institutions. Because convenience matters.
70 years strong and still member-first
We’ve come a long way from the shoebox in 1954. Today we’re a thriving state-chartered, not-for-profit credit union serving counties in Oregon and Washington, and our vision remains the same: creating financial solutions that make lives better. And we are still inspired by the words of our founder, Bob Coyle, who said, “Your credit union is in business for one purpose only — to serve the needs of its members.”
Our values are the heart of who we are
Our values aren’t just words on a page — they’re the foundation of everything we do. They guide every decision, every interaction, and every solution we create for our member-owners. They shape how we work together, how we serve you, and how we support the communities we call home.
Member focus
We’re here for you. Everything we do starts with one goal: making our members’ lives better. We advocate for you, educate you, and stand by your side — because when you succeed, we all succeed.
Integrity
Integrity is our foundation. Trust isn’t given — it’s earned. That’s why we hold ourselves accountable in everything we do and protect your privacy at every step. Integrity and confidentiality aren’t just values for us — they’re the way we do business.
Passion
We believe credit unions have the power to transform lives and strengthen communities. Every day, we show up with purpose — choosing actions and attitudes that reflect our passionate commitment to serve and make a real difference.
Education
We’re on a mission to share the credit union difference. Many people still don’t realize how powerful it is to belong to a member-owned cooperative — and we’re changing that. We advocate for the credit union movement, champion financial literacy, and empower our members with the knowledge and tools to thrive. And because learning never stops, we invest in ongoing education for our team to keep raising the bar.
Cooperative spirit
In 1934, during the depths of the Great Depression, the Federal Credit Union Act was signed to give everyday people the financial access banks weren’t providing. That moment sparked a movement built on cooperation, trust, and community.
Today, we proudly carry that mission forward. As a member-owned financial cooperative, we unite people around a common purpose — partnering resources and needs to create smarter, fairer solutions for everyone. That’s the credit union difference, and it’s what inspires us every day.
Social responsibility
We’re all connected — and we take that seriously. As part of a larger community, we believe in working together and caring for the world we share. That’s why we champion sustainability, give back through volunteerism, and stay committed to serving others every step of the way.
Annual meeting and reports
Every April, members come together to hear what’s new and what’s next at Oregon State Credit Union. It’s your chance to get the latest updates on our financial health, exciting projects, and future plans. Can’t make it? No problem — our annual report keeps you in the loop.
Be part of the conversation. See you in April!
2024 Annual Report
Our most recent meeting was held was held at 6 p.m., Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at our Sunset Operations Center (Community Room), 4800 SW Research Way, Corvallis, Or 97333. At the meeting, 2024 achievements were discussed, and elections were confirmed for open positions on the Board of Directors. Read more in our 2024 annual meeting minutes.
2023 Annual Report
If you miss our annual meetings, you can get up to date by reading through our annual reports below.