Welcome to the SeattleCU Foundation
Through strategic investments, strong partnerships, and a commitment to economic justice, the Foundation empowers underserved individuals, uplifts small businesses, and strengthens immigrant and marginalized communities.
Our Mission
The SeattleCU Foundation’s mission is to transform the financial landscape for historically excluded communities across Washington state.
Impact Pillars
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Wealth Creation for Low-Income and Marginalized Communities
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Supporting Small Businesses
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Investing in Our Communities
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Providing Services for Immigrant Communities
Who We Are
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Jackie Martinez-Vasques
Executive Director
Jackie Martinez-Vasquez is a nationally recognized equity leader with over 20 years of experience advancing racial and economic justice through community-driven strategies. As Executive Director of the SeattleCU Foundation, she provides strategic leadership to expand the Foundation’s impact, guiding investments and partnerships that promote financial equity for historically marginalized communities. Her career spans leadership roles in public agencies and financial institutions, where she has developed award-winning programs rooted in inclusion, access, and systemic change. She holds a master’s in public administration, has pursued doctoral studies in Leadership and Policy Studies at the University of Washington, and has been honored with numerous awards for her contributions to social responsibility and equity.
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Kenia Calderon-Ceron
Program Director
Kenia Calderon Ceron serves as Program Director of the SeattleCU Foundation, where she leads efforts to expand financial access and economic opportunity for immigrant and refugee communities across Washington state. With more than a decade of experience in the credit union industry, she brings deep expertise in inclusive financial strategies, community development, and market growth. A native of El Salvador, Kenia has worked nationally with credit unions to design and implement programs that build trust and increase membership among underserved populations. She holds an MBA from Drake University and has been recognized with honors such as Credit Union Times’ 2022 Rising Star and Des Moines Business Record’s 40 Under 40.
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Lindsay Taplin
Program Manager
Lindsay Taplin brings over 16 years of experience in the credit union industry, including work in strategic partnerships, DEI, and community development. As the SeattleCU Foundation Program Manager, she oversees fund development, donor relations, and program management to advance financial equity, securing grants and directing resources that support financial literacy, small business growth, and immigrant services. With a deep understanding of inclusive financial services, Lindsay cultivates donor relationships and manages fund deployment, ensuring resources are effectively allocated to programs that drive lasting economic impact across Washington state.
Board Leadership
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Richard Romero
Board Chair
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Michael Cruz
Board Vice Chair
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Lee Pierce
Board Secretary
