press releases

ST. JOSEPH, Mich. – United Federal Credit Union (United) is strengthening its Small Business Administration team with the addition of six highly experienced lending specialists, furthering the credit union’s commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth across the country.

Leading the credit union’s SBA lending team will be Brad Rogers, United’s Commercial Credit Manager. Rogers has over 20 years of SBA lending experience with previous roles as SBA credit officer, underwriting manager, and chief credit officer. His new team will focus specifically on helping small businesses nationwide achieve their financing goals by providing a comprehensive, start-to-finish experience for anyone seeking an SBA loan.

SBA Business Development Manager, Scott R. Gilman, will be one of the first faces small business owners meet when choosing United as their lender of choice.

Gilman joined United in September 2024 and he has more than 25 years of financial and SBA lending experience. In his role at United, Gilman will assist small business borrowers in navigating the SBA/USDA/504 process by providing financial counseling and product awareness. In addition, he will assist United in building out its sales platform to include the hiring of new business development officers and extending its network of referral relationships.

Also joining the SBA Lending team and providing vital operational support are Stacey Osborne—SBA Loan Operations Manager, Roxana Rice—SBA Production Manager, Kristina Rozek—SBA Counsel, Cindy Uphold—SBA Closer, and Lisa Jones—SBA Underwriter. Each member of this SBA back-office team has over 20 years of financial services experience, in a variety of small business lending, underwriting, and loan operations positions.

“Small businesses are the backbone of the communities we serve across the country, driving innovation, creating jobs, and fostering vibrant local economies,” said Terry O’Rourke, President/CEO of United. “At United, we believe in the importance of investing in small business success. The expansion of United’s SBA team allows us to offer the specialized support and resources that business owners nationwide need to thrive.”

"Bringing on this talented SBA lending team marks an exciting milestone for United Federal Credit Union,” said Renee Johnson, United’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Their expertise, professionalism, and dedication will not only boost our support for small businesses, but also fulfill United’s commitment to providing a frictionless experience for our members. The future is bright for our small business program and this team will make an immediate, positive impact on the credit union.”

Other Key Highlights of United’s SBA Loan Program Expansion

• Loan Options: United’s program will offer a variety of SBA loan products tailored to meet the diverse needs of small businesses, including long-term financing for real estate acquisition, building construction, renovation or expansion, purchase of machinery or equipment, or purchase of inventory.
• Streamlined Application Process: With a focus on efficiency, United has streamlined its loan application process, making it easier and faster for small businesses to secure financing.
• Personalized Support: Small business owners will benefit from personalized guidance and support throughout the loan process, from initial consultation to final approval and beyond.

More information about United’s SBA program can be found on our SBA loans page.

About United

United Federal Credit Union has served its Members since 1949 by helping them to build a sound financial future. United consists of more than 194,000 Member/owners worldwide and manages assets in excess of $4 billion. Its corporate office and main branch are in St. Joseph, Mich., with additional branches in Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal opportunity lender. Equal housing lender. For more information visit UnitedFCU.com