Steven Bender

Occupation: Retired
Years as a Heritage Grove Member: 32.5 years
Why does this position appeal to you? I want to give back to the credit union, after benefiting as a member for so many years. I believe my background and skills could assist the credit union.
Campaign Statement: I have been a satisfied member of Heritage Grove for about 35 years and now have the time to help our credit union to be successful going forward. I believe my professional background working on the state budget gives me skills that would be valuable to the Board of Directors. I plan to serve and support all Heritage Grove members.

Ivan Gall

Occupation: Director, Oregon Water Resources Department
Years as a Heritage Grove Member: 14.5 years
Why does this position appeal to you? Interested in supporting the credit union, which has been an integral part of our family’s fiscal life here in Salem. Also interested in supporting the community and learning more about CU operations.
Campaign Statement: Greetings, my name is Ivan Gall, and I am interested in serving on the Heritage Grove Federal Credit Union board. I have been a public employee for the state of Oregon since 1998, working all across Oregon in my roles with the Water Resources Department. I’m interested in supporting our community through volunteering and in supporting the work at the Credit Union, as they are an important part of my family’s financial tools. I have significant experience managing projects, staff, and complex issues, and feel that I can be a helpful and innovative representative on the board.

Shelley Hanson

Occupation: Executive Director
Years as a Heritage Grove Member: 41.5
Why does this position appeal to you? I enjoy serving the board and help steering the future direction of our business.
Campaign Statement: I believe I bring innovation and creativity to the board. We have an excellent management team that allows us new opportunities to grow our credit union and I love being a board member working with the CEO and team.

Scott Shearer

Occupation: Senior Financial Analyst
Years as a Heritage Grove Member: 14
Why does this position appeal to you? I have spent the last 12 years on the board and I really appreciate both the board and staff’s connection and interactions. I would like to continue to help lead our credit union into the future.  
Campaign Statement: As a lifelong Oregonian, and a 25 year resident of the Salem area, I believe local community organizations such as our credit union are extremely important and integral in the success of the community as a whole. The leadership of the board is very important to continuing the legacy of HGFCU.

Brandon Smith

Occupation: Risk Management Consultant, State of Oregon
Years as a Heritage Grove Member: 12
Why does this position appeal to you? I would like to put my relevant prior experience (HGFCU Board of Directors, City Council, etc.) to work for the members of the credit union.
Campaign Statement: My prior term on this board (2018–2021) delivered member-focused governance, fiscal discipline, and inclusive decision-making. During my seven years as Keizer City Councilor and leadership in key committees, I set policy, approved multimillion-dollar budgets, and shaped strategic plans, skills that mirror credit union director duties. At SAIF Corporation, I led claims teams, driving efficiency and compliance. My risk management expertise strengthens oversight of financial and operational stability. For proven, accountable leadership rooted in service and strategic stewardship, elect Brandon Smith for Heritage Grove Board of Directors.

Michael Staten

Occupation: Retired
Years as a Heritage Grove Member: 43 years
Why does this position appeal to you? I have had the honor of serving on the Heritage Grove board of directors for the past several years and would like to continue, as we are on the verge of new and exciting directions.
Campaign Statement: With proven experience on the board, I’ve helped guide our organization through meaningful growth and strong community impact. Now, I’m ready to help lead us into an exciting next chapter—expanding our reach into the Portland area and launching our first remote site there. This is a pivotal moment, and I’m committed to building a sustainable, modern, and inclusive future that strengthens our mission and supports our teams. Together, we can extend our services, broaden our voice, and ensure we continue making a difference where it’s needed most. I’d be honored to help shape this next stage of progress.