FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CAMPUS USA Credit Union CEO Jerry Benton Announces Retirement

Jeff Thieman will succeed Benton as CEO on January 1, 2027

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — [October 6, 2026] — CAMPUS USA Credit Union announced that 

President and Chief Executive Officer Jerry Benton will retire at the end of 2026, concluding 

more than 27 years of service to CAMPUS and over 40 years in the credit union industry.

Benton joined CAMPUS in 1999 as Chief Operating Officer, before being named President 

and CEO in 2014. Throughout his tenure, Benton helped guide CAMPUS through a period of 

significant growth while maintaining the credit union’s focus on its members, employees,

and communities.

When Benton became CEO, CAMPUS had approximately $1.2 billion in assets, served 

about 70,000 members, and operated within a 12-county field of membership. Today, 

CAMPUS has surpassed $4 billion in assets, serves more than 180,000 members, and is 

open to members across 25 Florida counties.

Under Benton’s leadership, CAMPUS expanded its geographic reach, opened new service 

centers, invested in technology, and strengthened its ability to serve members through 

every stage of their financial lives. He also championed CAMPUS’ longstanding 

commitment to supporting education, health care, financial literacy, and nonprofit 

organizations throughout Florida.

Benton’s commitment to service extends beyond CAMPUS. He has supported numerous 

community organizations in Alachua and Marion counties and plans to remain actively 

engaged in the community after his retirement.

“I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together, but I am even more proud 

of the culture we have built—one that puts people first and recognizes that our success is 

measured by the positive difference we make in their lives,” Benton said. “CAMPUS is wellpositioned for continued success, and I know its best years are still ahead. I want to thank 

the members, coworkers, and peers that have made my time at CAMPUS so special.”

After retiring from CAMPUS, Benton looks forward to spending more time at the beach and

traveling with his wife, Sue, and their adult daughters, Abby and Allison.

Thieman Named Next CEO

Effective January 1, 2027, Jeff Thieman will become President and CEO of CAMPUS USA 

Credit Union. Thieman has served CAMPUS as Chief Operating Officer since 2014 and has 

played an integral role in shaping the credit union’s strategy, operations, technology, and 

member experience.

“Jeff’s deep understanding of CAMPUS, proven leadership, and genuine commitment to our 

members and employees make him exceptionally well prepared to lead CAMPUS into its 

next chapter,” said Jay Hutto, Chair of the CAMPUS USA Credit Union volunteer Board of

Directors. “Having served as Chief Operating Officer, Jeff brings extensive institutional 

knowledge, a strong appreciation for CAMPUS’ culture and values, and a clear vision for the 

future. The Board is confident that his leadership will build on CAMPUS’ strong foundation 

while continuing to advance innovation, responsible growth, and exceptional service to our 

members.”

Benton is working closely with Thieman and the CAMPUS leadership team to ensure a 

smooth transition.

About CAMPUS USA Credit Union

Founded in 1935, CAMPUS USA Credit Union is a member-owned financial cooperative 

with more than $4 billion in assets serving more than 180,000 members across Florida. 

CAMPUS provides a full range of personal and business financial services and is 

committed to empowering members to reach their full financial potential while supporting 

the communities it serves. For more information, visit campuscu.com

Media Contact:

Tarin Acaron, VP Marketing

CAMPUS USA Credit Union

352.335.9090 x10401

TAcaron@campuscu.com