“Being open and listening to differing perspectives has helped me grow and discover strengths, and weaknesses, that I would have never been able to consider otherwise.”
Lynette Cupps, Chief Growth Officer at MAX, is a financial pro. But she’s a teacher too, using her position to create programs that educate kids on money- management essentials and connect mentors with nonprofits to arm them with basic business concepts.
“Teaching healthy financial habits and having products that are safe for consumers is very important to me,” Cupps said. She puts high value on the benefits of mentorship, pointing to her own career path as an example of the good things that can happen when people take the time to share their experiences and expertise. “I have been blessed with several mentors who have each taught me something different,” she said. Cupps has been a part of the MAX team for 20 years and in her current role for two.
Fulfilled
I get to work with our team in Marketing, Member Experience, Data and Community Development, and it is rewarding to be part of the development of tools that benefit the lives of our consumers.
Personal Best
At MAX, I partnered with others to develop and implement SideKick, our financial education program that’s in more than 30 schools. In addition to a facilitator-led program, a free, turnkey curriculum is available to any educator. I also had the opportunity to present an idea in the Next Top Credit Union Executive. My idea was for established businesses to mentor nonprofits with business acumen to help the nonprofit succeed. It won the competition, and afterwards, a handful of credit unions adopted the program.
Helping Hand
I am honored to serve as the president of the Advisory Board for the Grandview YMCA and also volunteer with several organizations with my children.
Firm Foundation
My husband, Jason, and my parents play integral roles in helping me balance work and a family. Sandra Branch has been a constant encouragement and has consistently challenged me. Cheryl Payson and Tim Marquardt each taught me to see opposite perspectives from my own. Lastly, Wayne Blackwell planted in me the philosophy, \”Don\’t settle for mediocrity,\” early in my career.
Top Tip
Start with saying, “Yes,” and take opportunities to learn from each experience and from others. Being open and listening to differing perspectives has helped me grow and discover strengths, and weaknesses, that I would have never been able to consider otherwise. This requires a relentless optimism to see each challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Out of Office
I enjoy plants and flowers, reading and traveling with my husband and family.
Love List:
- Boutique: The Southern Refinery
- Coffee Stop: Ellianos Coffee
- Restaurant: El Rey
- Motto: “Start with ‘Yes.’”
