NRL Federal Credit Union (NRLFCU) is now Spectra Credit Union.
NRLFCU’s Board of Directors and Executive Management team announced the change to their 24,000 members in late August. The new name took effect on Oct 12, 2021.
“As the Chairperson for NRL Federal Credit Union, I want to share the excitement of the entire Board of Directors for the Credit Union’s name change and rebranding to Spectra Credit Union. We sought a name that reflects the Naval Research Lab (NRL) foundation while also projecting the inclusiveness that is at the core of our mission. The term Spectra does both. We have confidence that rebranding will help the Credit Union reach its full potential – and thereby fulfill our vision of helping all of our members reach their full financial potential,” said Dr. Mary Kappus, Chair of Spectra Credit Union Board of Directors.
The new Spectra brand also emphasizes diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), corporate social responsibility (CSR), and a commitment to support the credit union's local communities. More than 60% of the credit union’s staff are people of color and the organization is primarily led by women - including the CEO, CFO, and COO. The Credit Union’s proven commitment to DEI and CSR is a differentiator among other financial institutions.
“Our founders at NRL are innovators. They inspire us to stay on a constant search for better, faster, stronger solutions to our members’ everyday financial challenges,” said Kristin Shultz, CEO of Spectra Credit Union. “With our new updated brand, we look forward to attracting significantly more members within the greater D.C. area.”
When the new name launched on October 12th,, members were welcomed with a new, improved website and online banking interface, newly branded debit/credit cards, and updated branches. In addition, a new full-service retail branch is coming in late 2021 in late 2021 in Alexandria, VA, along with more robust services for small businesses.
To see the new brand in action visit SpectraCU.com or BloomingANewBrand.com/NRLFCU.
Watch the new brand video HERE.
Watch the new commercial HERE.
