Sati Smith, CEO of Diversified Members Credit Union (DMCU), will be inducted into the African American Credit Union Hall of Fame making her the first credit union CEO from Michigan to receive this prestigious national honor.
The recognition, presented by the African American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC), celebrates African Americans and allies whose leadership, innovation, and advocacy have significantly advanced the credit union movement and expanded access to financial opportunity.
“It is an incredible honor to be recognized by AACUC and to stand among such inspiring leaders,” Smith said. “At DMCU, we believe everyone deserves access to tools that build financial stability and generational wealth and I’m truly proud to represent Michigan in that mission.”
Smith’s journey is one of determination and impact. She joined DMCU more than two decades ago, beginning as a teller before ascending to the role of CEO in 2023 becoming the first African American to lead the 96-year-old Detroit-based financial institution. Her story of perseverance, from a single mother earning her GED to completing a Bachelor of Social Work from Wayne State University and a Master of Arts from Ashland Theological Seminary, has inspired many in the community and across the credit union industry.
“Sati’s induction into the African American Credit Union Hall of Fame is not only a remarkable and well-deserved honor, but also a celebration of what she’s inspired in others,” said Anthony Lamerato, Chairperson of Diversified Members Credit Union. “From her first day as a teller to leading DMCU as its first African American woman CEO, she has shown what it means to lift others while climbing. We are thrilled to call her our leader and proud to see her make history yet again, this time as Michigan’s first AACUC inductee.”
Under Smith’s leadership, DMCU, which serves nearly 30,000 members, employs nearly 100 team members, and manages $500 million in assets across its Detroit, Clawson, and Novi locations continues to expand its reach and commitment to the community. The credit union offers a comprehensive range of financial products, services, and financial coaching programs that reflect Smith’s vision for inclusion and generational empowerment.
Beyond her role as CEO, Smith is deeply engaged in community leadership. She serves on the boards of the Detroit Public Safety Foundation and the Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan and is an ambassador for the Voices of Black Women cancer research study.
Patty Corkery, President and CEO of the Michigan Credit Union League, praised Smith’s induction as a milestone moment for Michigan. “Sati’s recognition from the African American Credit Union Hall of Fame is an extraordinary achievement and a proud moment for Michigan’s entire credit union community,” Corkery said. “She leads with compassion, authenticity, and a deep commitment to helping people build brighter financial futures. This honor reflects not only her accomplishments, but also the heart of what credit unions stand for.”
Smith will be formally honored during the AACUC’s networking event on March 3, 2026, at the Governmental Affairs Conference in Washington, D.C.
