CU SoCal Celebrates Third Consecutive Year Winning Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award

CU SoCal's Ongoing Commitment to Employee Engagement

In a remarkable achievement, the Credit Union of Southern California (CU SoCal) has once again earned the prestigious Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award for 2026. This marks the third consecutive year that CU SoCal has been recognized as one of the best places to work worldwide, a feat accomplished by only a select few.

The announcement was made on April 9, 2026, and it solidifies CU SoCal's reputation as a leader in fostering a positive workplace culture. As the credit union continues to place high importance on employee engagement, this recognition highlights its commitment to ensuring that all staff feel valued, empowered, and connected to the organization's mission.

The Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award recognizes organizations that demonstrate exceptional employee engagement levels, a critical factor in creating a thriving workplace. To qualify for this award, organizations must rank in the top percentiles for engagement according to Gallup's rigorous metrics. Those that qualify must then present extensive evidence of their workplace culture to a panel of Gallup experts who determine the award recipients through careful evaluation.

CU SoCal is among only five credit unions to have received this accolade in 2026, reflecting its dedication to maintaining high standards. President and CEO Dave Gunderson expressed pride in this recognition, stating, “Our success starts with our people. By continuing to invest in their growth and well-being, and by fostering a culture rooted in collaboration, trust, and care, we ensure our team remains engaged and inspired to deliver exceptional service to our Members every day.”

For CU SoCal, employee well-being extends beyond mere recognition; it encompasses a holistic approach to labor relations and workplace satisfaction. The organization emphasizes leadership that prioritizes openness and trust, ultimately resulting in improved morale and productivity.

Since its inception in 1954 as the Whittier Area Schools Federal Credit Union, CU SoCal has evolved with a mission to help its members build better lives through personalized financial services. With over $3.84 billion in assets and serving more than 185,000 members, CU SoCal is not just a credit union but a celebrated member-owned cooperative dedicated to exemplary service.

This accolade is indicative of CU SoCal's unyielding commitment to creating a workplace that thrives on the principles of respect and shared objectives. The culture that CU SoCal has cultivated is one where employees are continuously encouraged to contribute meaningfully to the cooperative's mission.

As the financial landscape continues to evolve, CU SoCal remains focused on ensuring that its internal environment remains robustly engaged. By securing this continuous recognition from Gallup, CU SoCal sets a benchmark in the credit union sector for workplace excellence, which in return, supports its members through impactful and personalized financial decisions.

In conclusion, CU SoCal's achievement in earning the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award for the third consecutive year reflects its unwavering commitment to excellence in employee engagement. As a pioneering force in the credit union sector, CU SoCal proves that investing in human capital is not just beneficial for employees, but essential for the overall health of the organization and its service to the community.