Owatonna, MN – May 2025 – Kim Westphal dedicated her career to HomeTown Credit Union, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to its growth and success over the last 34 years. And now, after her retirement last month, the Minnesota Credit Union Foundation has officially recognized her efforts with their distinguished CU Builder Award.
Created in 2008, the CU Builder Award honors an individual’s dedication to the success, growth, and vitality of the not-for-profit credit union movement in Minnesota. Early in her career, Kim recognized her passion for this movement, and her enthusiasm showed in each role she held at HomeTown throughout her career. After becoming CEO in 2005, Kim oversaw remarkable expansion, guiding HomeTown to where it is today with four branches and a service area of 26 counties. She played a pivotal role in strengthening HomeTown’s foundation, from implementing innovative programs and services, putting financial education at the forefront of the credit union’s work, and advancing technologies to best serve members. Her leadership not only ensured financial stability but also fostered a culture of service and excellence within the credit union.
Beyond the walls of HomeTown, Kim was involved with the Minnesota Credit Union Network, its Hiawatha Chapter, and the Governmental Affairs Conference continuously advocating for policies and best practices to benefit credit unions across the entire state. Throughout her career, Kim’s passion for the credit union philosophy of “people helping people” never wavered.
On Tuesday, May 6, Andrea Molnau, from the Minnesota Credit Union Foundation, presented Kim with the CU Builder Award at HomeTown’s South Branch in Owatonna. Her profound career has shaped who HomeTown is and will continue to be for members and communities for generations to come.
About HomeTown Credit Union: Founded on May 21, 1974, as OTC Employees Federal Credit Union, HomeTown Credit Union has grown from its humble beginnings in the basement of OTC to a full-service financial institution serving over 24,500 members in 26 counties across southern Minnesota. Guided by its core values of Community, Integrity, Education, Member Advocacy, and Commitment, HomeTown Credit Union remains dedicated to providing sound financial services, fostering financial wellness, and being a trusted partner for its members. With a rich history of growth and expansion, HomeTown continues to invest in its communities, ensuring that members receive the highest level of service and support in achieving their financial goals.