- Jerry Benton will retire as CAMPUS USA Credit Union CEO at the end of 2026 after 27 years, succeeded by Jeff Thieman on Jan. 1, 2027.
- Under Benton, CAMPUS grew from $1.2 billion to over $4 billion in assets and expanded membership from 70,000 to 180,000 across 25 Florida counties.
CAMPUS USA Credit Union President and Chief Executive Officer Jerry Benton will retire at the end of 2026 after more than 27 years with CAMPUS and Jeff Thieman will take his position effective Jan. 1, 2027.
According to a CAMPUS USA release sent on Tuesday, Benton joined CAMPUS in 1999 as chief operating officer and was named president and CEO in 2014. During his tenure, he helped guide the credit union through significant growth while maintaining its focus on members, employees and communities.
When Benton became CEO, CAMPUS had approximately $1.2 billion in assets, about 70,000 members and a 12-county field of membership. Today, the credit union 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 support for education, health care, financial literacy and nonprofit organizations throughout Florida.
Benton’s community involvement extends beyond CAMPUS. He has supported numerous organizations in Alachua and Marion counties and plans to remain active in the community following 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,” said Benton, who worked in the credit union industry for more than 40 years. “CAMPUS is well-positioned 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.”
Following his retirement, Benton plans to spend more time at the beach and travel with his wife, Sue, and their adult daughters, Abby and Allison.
Thieman named next CEO
Thieman has served as CAMPUS’ 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, in the release. “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.”