America First Credit Union Appoints Jessica Graham as EVP and Chief Legal Officer

Experienced credit union leader brings decades of legal expertise to support continued growth and regulatory excellence.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:30pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a stack of legal documents, a pen, and a gavel arranged elegantly on a clean, white seamless background, conceptually representing the legal expertise and regulatory guidance that Jessica Graham will provide to America First Credit Union.The appointment of legal veteran Jessica Graham as America First Credit Union's new Chief Legal Officer signals the credit union's commitment to regulatory excellence and strategic growth.Ogden Today

America First Credit Union, one of the largest credit unions in the country, has announced the appointment of Jessica Graham as its new Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer. Graham brings nearly 30 years of legal expertise, including most recently serving as Executive Vice President, Chief Risk Officer & Chief Legal Officer for Global Federal Credit Union.

Why it matters

The appointment of an experienced legal and compliance leader like Jessica Graham is crucial for a large credit union like America First as it navigates an increasingly complex regulatory environment and continues its growth trajectory. Her expertise in areas like risk management and mergers & acquisitions will be valuable assets as the credit union expands its operations.

The details

In her new role, Graham will serve as America First's chief legal advisor, guiding the credit union on regulatory compliance, risk management, and strategic decisions, while also supporting ongoing growth initiatives. Prior to joining America First, Graham spent several years in private practice with national law firms and the last 23 years as General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer for large institutions with multi-state and international operations.

  • Jessica Graham was most recently the Executive Vice President, Chief Risk Officer & Chief Legal Officer for Global Federal Credit Union.
  • Graham has nearly 30 years of legal expertise, including over 20 years as a General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer.

The players

Jessica Graham

The new Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer at America First Credit Union, bringing nearly 30 years of legal expertise to the role.

Thayne Shaffer

The president & CEO at America First Credit Union, who welcomed Graham to the leadership team.

America First Credit Union

One of the largest credit unions in the country, with $24 billion in assets and 116 locations across six states, serving 1.5 million members.

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What they’re saying

“We are thrilled to welcome Jessica to America First. She brings incredible experience not just as a Chief Legal Officer, but also in compliance, crisis management, and mergers & acquisitions. Her expertise and leadership make her an outstanding addition to our leadership team.”

— Thayne Shaffer, President & CEO, America First Credit Union

“I have long admired America First Credit Union and its commitment to improving the lives of their members, employees, and communities. I am excited to be part of such a dedicated and successful team.”

— Jessica Graham, Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, America First Credit Union

What’s next

America First Credit Union will continue to leverage Jessica Graham's expertise in legal, compliance, and risk management to support the credit union's ongoing growth and expansion efforts across the Western United States.

The takeaway

The appointment of an experienced legal and compliance leader like Jessica Graham is a strategic move by America First Credit Union to bolster its regulatory expertise and position the organization for continued success as it expands its footprint and serves an ever-growing member base.