Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union, a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution serving the Midlands and beyond, is marking 90 years of service in 2026.
Founded in 1936 as the Columbia Teachers Credit Union, the organization has grown into one of South Carolina’s most recognized credit unions while maintaining its core mission of member-focused banking and community investment.
“Reaching 90 years is an incredible achievement that speaks to the generations of members who have trusted Palmetto Citizens with their financial well-being,” said Robert Dozier, president and CEO. “As we celebrate the past nine decades, we’re proud of what we’ve built together and look forward to expanding access to affordable financial services while also deepening our commitment to the communities we serve.”
Growth and Expansion
The milestone follows a year of significant growth in 2025:
New Corporate Headquarters
In April 2025, Palmetto Citizens broke ground on a new five-story, 100,000-square-foot corporate headquarters in downtown Columbia at the corner of Sumter and Lady streets. The facility will house administrative offices, an operations center, and a full-service downtown branch. A 325-space parking garage is also planned. Construction is expected to be completed in early 2027.
Whitmire Branch
A new 1,650-square-foot branch at 138 Main Street in downtown Whitmire is scheduled to open in March 2026. Located in a historic building, the branch will offer full-service banking and an onsite ATM to area residents.
Charter Expansion
Under an updated charter, Palmetto Citizens is expanding beyond South Carolina. Georgia will be the first new market entered, pending final regulatory approval of the planned acquisition of four Southern Bank branches in 2026.
Community Involvement and Foundation Launch
Community engagement remains central to the credit union’s mission. In 2025 alone:
-
128 volunteers contributed 902 hours of service
-
Volunteers supported 14 community organizations
-
Financial donations were made to 115 organizations
-
$611,041 was reinvested into the community
The year also marked the launch of the Palmetto Citizens Foundation, a nonprofit focused on financial education, charitable giving, and strategic partnerships.
“The Palmetto Citizens Foundation gives us a powerful new platform to support education and create lasting community impact,” said Emilie Lewis, executive director of the foundation. “We’re excited to grow our community involvement and impact throughout 2026 and beyond.”
Foundation membership is open to the public, with donations starting at $5.
Education and Financial Literacy Initiatives
Palmetto Citizens continues to invest in financial literacy through several programs:
-
Financial Education Resources: Guest speakers and hands-on materials provided to schools and youth groups.
-
Reality of Money Workshop: A free interactive teen workshop held each July, including a complimentary dinner.
-
Youth Financial Educator of the Year: Now in its 21st year, this award honors an outstanding high school teacher with public recognition and a $1,000 prize.
-
Higher Education Scholarship Program: Twenty $1,000 scholarships awarded annually to high school seniors and college students. Applications close February 1 each year.
-
Teacher of the Game: Launched in partnership with Gamecock Athletics, this initiative recognizes K–12 educators during South Carolina Gamecocks football home games. In 2025, seven educators were honored with $1,000 awards, game tickets, and in-stadium recognition.
Awards and Recognition
In 2025, Palmetto Citizens earned multiple statewide honors:
-
Best Credit Union in South Carolina for the 18th consecutive year (The State’s Best)
-
Best Credit Union in Columbia for the 12th straight year and Best Bank for the 10th year (Free Times/P&C Columbia)
-
Best Places to Work in South Carolina for the 16th consecutive year (SCBIZ & Best Companies Group)
As the credit union celebrates nine decades of service, anniversary-related updates and initiatives will continue throughout the year.
For more information, visit www.palmettocitizens.org
