According to a news release, Smith, 53, was appointed to her new role in early November. She replaced former CEO Kathie Trembath, who worked as her mentor and has retired after nearly two decades with the organization.

As the newly appointed CEO of Diversified Members Credit Union (DMCU), Sati Smith’s journey is one of unwavering strength, and unyielding perseverance as she makes history as the first Black woman to hold this prestigious position.https://t.co/V1AyEZyGwH

— Michigan Chronicle (@MIChronicle) November 26, 2023

“This a major accomplishment not only for me and my family, but for the entire community,” Smith said in a news release statement. “It sends a strong message to women and other minorities that we can break glass ceilings. We can accomplish what we want to accomplish. My sincere hope is that this will inspire others.”

Founded in 1929, Diversified Members Credit Union had never appointed a Black woman as CEO in its 94-year history until now, per the news release.

first Black woman CEO

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