Sunlight Federal Credit Union says it has converted its core processor to Jack Henry & Associates Symitar division — adding new efficiencies through a cloud-based model and expanding its digital capabilities with the Banno Digital Platform.

Sunlight FCU, which has offices in Powell, Cody, Sheridan and Worland, says it was looking for a core that offered more options for both employees and members. Efficiency was a driving factor, the credit union says, as the previous core had many manual processes. On top of that, there was an increased need to have less hardware to manage and maintain in-house. The credit union began the process in April 2020, as the entire country was transitioning to a COVID-19 remote working environment. 

The team felt confident in Jack Henry’s talent, technology and value, feeling the partner would enable growth and automation.

Selecting Jack Henry’s private cloud environment will support two major goals of the credit union: supporting its growing field of membership with scale and promoting financial literacy in schools. Historically, rural communities have lacked a credit union presence and Sunlight wants to offer this option, starting with its expansion into northern Colorado and southern Montana.

Because the core will be hosted in the cloud, the credit union will be able to remotely open accounts for new members. Teaching financial literacy at schools and providing financial resources to these new communities will be an integral part of the expansion, Sunlight FCU says.

“We look forward to the new functionality and digital capabilities that we can bring to our members and to new communities,” said Sunlight FCU CEO Steve Pearson. “Everyone should have access to the benefits, education and personal service that credit unions provide. Thanks to Jack Henry, we’re able to extend that service into new markets, enabling our credit union to fulfill its mission while adhering to the highest standards of service.” 

In addition to its geographic expansion, Sunlight FCU wants to attract and retain a younger generation of members. The credit union says it will leverage Jack Henry’s digital banking platform “to meet the modern needs of all members, especially this generation, with improved mobile and online banking experiences.” Leaders of the organization say they will offer digital access and money movement that is competitive with even the largest banks. 

“We believe Sunlight FCU’s mission to provide superior financial services to all communities — regardless of location, demographic or age,” said Shanon McLachlan, vice president of Jack Henry and president of Symitar. “Upgrading their core operations to our platform and private cloud will allow the credit union to fully focus on making a difference in the financial lives of their existing and prospective members. We’re proud to be part of this strategy to improve the financial health and access of many generations to come.”