Heather Wood is the Assistant Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at AmeriCU Credit Union, bringing over two decades of experience in the credit union industry. Her journey with AmeriCU began in 2003 as a part-time teller, and she has since advanced through various roles, including Member Relationship Advisor, Financial Center Manager, and Assistant Vice President of Operations. In her current role, Heather is responsible for cultivating and maintaining partnerships that align with AmeriCU’s strategic objectives. She collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to identify opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and efficiency improvements. Beyond her professional endeavors, Heather’s personal resilience has profoundly inspired many. On January 20, 2023, she endured the unimaginable loss of her 14-year-old daughter and her husband in a tragic incident. Despite this profound adversity, Heather has demonstrated remarkable strength and courage, channeling her experiences into advocacy for mental health awareness, community support, connection, and relationship building. Heather’s unwavering dedication to her profession, coupled with her personal journey of resilience, makes her a compelling and inspiring speaker, mentor, and leader. She offers valuable insights into leadership, personal growth, and the power of community support in overcoming life’s most challenging moments.