CU Shine

Kellie’s way of making a difference everywhere she goes

Kellie Marshall’s commitment to her community is woven into every aspect of her life. When she became the Eugene branch manager last year, she brought 28 years of financial industry experience with her. She also brought years and years of always giving back to her community—making a difference everywhere she goes.

“I have trouble with saying yes,” she said, reflecting on her many commitments.

Each month, Kellie volunteers at her church and her daughter’s school. For years, she poured her heart into serving as an Oregon High School Equestrian Teams (OHSET) adviser, devoting an incredible 40-60 hours a month to her daughter’s team at North Eugene High School. This year, for the first time in several years, she’s stepped back from that role—but not from volunteering. Instead, Kellie is now leading the fundraising board for her daughter’s high school graduation committee, working tirelessly to raise money for their graduation party.

Kellie’s generosity extends beyond supporting her daughter’s endeavors. She belongs to the Chambers of Commerce in Springfield and Eugene. She served for years as a board member of the Bethel Education Foundation, helping to raise money for scholarships. She has been a volunteer scorekeeper for the Oregon State Student Association. She also shows up for a neighbor she has “adopted” as family—offering hospice comfort and support.

Although she stays busy, Kellie already has her sights set on her next volunteer opportunity. She recently learned about the South Willamette Valley Honor Flight; a nonprofit Central Willamette Credit Union supports. The organization’s mission is to honor senior veterans from Lane, Linn, Lincoln, and Benton counties by sending them on a free trip to our nation’s memorials. Kellie is inspired by the Honor Flight’s mission and sees it as her next path.

“I really want to be a guardian,” she said. “And it’s something my husband can do with me.”

Guardians are volunteers who accompany veterans on a five-day trip to Washington, DC, ensuring their safety and comfort.

“This group is so, so special. When I heard about it, it just hit me, and I knew I wanted to do something with them,” she said. “My passion is for the veteran community.”

Kellie’s connection to veterans is deeply personal. Both of her grandfathers served—one at the end of World War II, the other during the Korean War. She also has cousins who served in Vietnam.

“I have the utmost respect; my husband and I do,” she said. “It’s something we connect on.”

What excites Kellie most about the Honor Flight program is the opportunity to build a relationship with the veteran she’ll accompany.

“You get to connect with the veteran before you leave, so you’re friends when you go.”

As Kellie looks ahead to new ways to serve, she is a shining example of the impact one person can have—at work, at home, and in the community.