How did you get started in the business? – I began my career at a bank during my senior year of high school, expecting it to be temporary while pursuing a criminal justice degree. After serving in the military, I joined the credit union and fell in love with its mission to strengthen communities. That passion led me to change my major and commit to growing within the organization. Here I am today, 13 years and 6 promotions later.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – One of my biggest professional challenges was overseeing the contact center without prior experience. I had to quickly learn operational complexities, adapt to a fast-paced environment, and build trust with a team whose expertise differed from mine.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Receiving my Master’s Degree in Organizational Performance.
Tell us a little about your family. – I’m married to my high school sweetheart and have two daughters.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – At 13, walking home through the cold Nebraska snow in mesh sneakers because my family couldn’t afford boots, I made myself a promise: I would break the cycle. Poverty, instability, and trauma wouldn’t define my future, and that commitment guided every decision I made.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Read!
Who inspires you? – My father inspires me because, despite being homeless and caring for his brother with cerebral palsy, he never lost his optimism. His belief that challenges make us stronger and his ability to find positivity in hardship motivate me to persevere and lead with resilience.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “You’re only given a little spark of madness. You mustn’t lose it.” -Robin Williams.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Generous-hearted.
Which talent would you most like to have? – I wish I could sing!
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Commercial Real Estate Investor.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – I serve on the Credit Union for Kids Cabinet, raising funds for our local children’s hospital. I also dedicate time to organizations like the Nebraska Diaper Bank, Together, and Food Bank for the Heartland. Additionally, I’ve volunteered as a trainer for the Set Me Free Project, which provides education to stop human trafficking.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – Solito: A Memoir by Javier Zamora.
What is your favorite movie? – The Greatest Showman.
What is your favorite TV show? – The Office.
What is your favorite local Omaha restaurant? – Umami Asian Cuisine.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – They can email me at dcruz@centrisfcu.org.