Women’s History Month Q&A
In honor of Women’s History Month, PFCU interviewed two outstanding women who are making a difference in our Credit Union. Rorie Safforld and Renee Morris have contributed to the success of PFCU and have empowered other employees, paving the way for their success.
We had the opportunity to sit down with these women and ask them some questions about their experiences working in the financial industry. We also asked them to share some advice with others.
Overall, the interviews were inspiring and showed the critical role women play in the financial industry. PFCU is proud to have women like Rorie and Renee on our team and is committed to supporting women in our Credit Union and the communities we serve.
Rorie Safforld – Branch Manager of the Arsenal and has been with PFCU for over 8 years.
Q: Why is Women’s History Month important to you?
A: Women’s History is important to me because it uplifts and supports women’s achievements and builds awareness of contributions made by women.
Q: What is your favorite part about working at PFCU?
A: My favorite part of working at the CU is employee engagement. I appreciate effective managers that motivate their teams and encourage them to make decisions and work together as a team.
Q: What is your background in the financial industry?
A: I have several years of experience in the financial industry. I have held various positions throughout my banking career. Daily I assist and encourage members to meet their financial goals through financial literacy.
Q: What advice would you give women just starting in the financial industry and/or wanting to grow their careers?
A: As a role model I would encourage women entering the financial industry to enjoy helping people. You should be personable and network with professionals in the industry. I would also like to suggest taking a financial course that would provide a degree or certification to ensure success.
Q: What qualities make a great female leader?
A: A strong woman who has the ability to lead, empower and influence others.
Renee Morris – Chief Project & Training Officer and has been with PFCU for over 22 years.
Q: Why is Women’s History Month important to you?
A: I have seen significant changes in our society over the decades for gender equality, inclusion and diversity. We still have a long way to go but women are making their mark in the leadership roles throughout fortune 500 companies and gaining executive positions within the financial industry.
Q: What is your favorite part about working at PFCU?
A: Our mission “Caring about our family of members by offering financial solutions to help them achieve their goals and realize their dreams”. We truly care about our community, our members as individuals and strive every day to improve their lives!
Q: What is your background in the financial industry?
A: I started as a teller for a community bank with approximately 108 branches throughout NJ back in September 1986. I was promoted through the years and held almost every position within the retail sector of banking. When we merged with the 17th largest bank in 1993 I held a position as a Regional Retail Support Specialist which covered Northwestern NJ Region.
In 2001 I found myself searching for that community connection which was lost and work life balance which fit my needs as a new mother of two children. Within that search Picatinny Federal Credit Union gave me what I was longing for, the opportunity to make a difference within our community and lives of our members as well as my family.
Q: What advice would you give women just starting in the financial industry and/or wanting to grow their careers?
A: The financial industry is changing and the opportunities are endless. “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish” – Michelle Obama. Have a passion for what you do, don’t let anyone tell you that you cannot do it, believe in yourself and decide what mark you would like to leave and go for it.
Q: What qualities make a great female leader?
A: Vision, resilience, strength, agility, work ethic, self-motivation, and mentorship.