Ann Loftis to Retire After 32 Years of Service; Dale Kovar Appointed as New President/CEO
Omaha, Nebraska – 10/1/2024 – First Nebraska Credit Union today announced the retirement of its President and CEO, Ann Loftis, effective February 17, 2025, after an exemplary 32-year career with the organization. The Board of Directors has named Dale Kovar, the current Executive Vice President, as Loftis’s successor. Kovar will assume the role of President/CEO on January 1, 2025.
Loftis’s leadership has been instrumental in the credit union’s growth and success. Since taking on the role of President/CEO in 2016, she has overseen tremendous progress, including a significant increase in assets from $115 million to $183 million, loan growth from $69 million to $122 million, and membership expansion from 13,700 to 17,000. Under her guidance, First Nebraska Credit Union also broadened its Field of Membership to include nine additional communities in Nebraska and Iowa, expanded into underserved areas, and introduced innovative services. Loftis has led the organization through several successful mergers, a core system conversion, and a strategic name change that reflects the credit union’s inclusive mission.
In addition to her leadership within the credit union, Loftis has been a strong advocate for the credit union movement, serving on the NCUL Advocacy Committee and supporting initiatives such as CULAC/PAC and the Children’s Miracle Network. Her dedication to service, both within the organization and in the larger financial community, has been recognized by colleagues and peers alike.
Reflecting on her retirement, Loftis said, “It has been an incredible journey working with such a dedicated team and serving the members of First Nebraska Credit Union. I am deeply grateful for the trust and support of our members, employees, and volunteers, and I look forward to seeing the credit union continue to thrive under Dale Kovar’s capable leadership.”
Dale Kovar, who currently serves as the Executive Vice President, brings 30 years of experience in banking and finance, along with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and an MBA from the University of Nebraska. He has worked closely with Loftis over the past several years in preparation for this leadership transition. With a strong track record in financial management, investment strategies, and organizational leadership, Kovar is well-equipped to lead First Nebraska Credit Union into the future.
“I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to serve as First Nebraska Credit Union’s next President/CEO,” said Kovar. “I look forward to building on the solid foundation that Ann has established and working with our dedicated team to continue providing exceptional service to our members. Together, we will uphold the core values of ‘People Helping People’ while driving future growth and innovation.”
The Board of Directors expressed their confidence in Kovar’s ability to lead the credit union. “Dale has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic insight during his time with First Nebraska, and we are excited to see him take on this new role. His commitment to our members and our mission ensures a bright future for the credit union,” said Julie Beers, Board Chair.
First Nebraska Credit Union is proud to have had the leadership of Ann Loftis for over three decades and looks forward to a seamless transition under Dale Kovar.
About First Nebraska Credit Union
First Nebraska Credit Union, founded in 1964, serves 17.000 members with assets totaling $183 million. The credit union is committed to providing exceptional financial services to individuals and families across Nebraska and Iowa, guided by the philosophy of “People Helping People.”
