Holiday BIG GOALS
Big Moves,
On November 11, we pause to honor and thank the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Day is more than a date on the calendar - it’s a time to recognize the courage, dedication, and sacri ce of those who have protected our freedoms.
At SWACU, we are proud to serve many veterans and their families within our membership. Your service inspires us to remain committed to our mission of people helping people.
This Veterans Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to all who have worn the uniform - past and present. We thank you for your service, your sacri ce, and your unwavering commitment to our nation.
So u thwe s t Airl i ne s SU M ME R DE CK PARTY
SWACU was proud to join the celebration with Southwest Airlines at their summer deck party. It was an afternoon filled with laughter, community spirit, and plenty of popcorn as employees gathered to relax, connect and let loose.
SWACU brought an extra layer of excitement by providing prizes and giveaways throughout the event. And of course, our popcorn station was a huge hitthe buttery, fresh-popped snack kept the fun (and the conversations) flowing. WE ARE: THE POPCORN PEOPLE!
We can’t wait to do it again! Until then, thank you to everyone who stopped by our table, shared a laugh, and walked away with a prize (and a bag of popcorn!).
SWACU Cel eb r ate s Canin e C ompan i on s’
5 0 Y e ar s of Se rvice
This year marks the Golden Anniversary of Canine Companions - 50 years of providing expertly trained service dogs. These canines are partnered with children, adults, and veterans with disabilities. Since 1975, this organization has grown into one of the nation’s leading service dog trainers and supporters to assist with daily tasks and increase independence.
At SWACU, we’re honored to stand alongside them and help share the Luv with some special celebrations that were planned for our SWACU family.
These furry ambassadors brought smiles and reminded us why Canine Companions’ mission means so much. Their service gives independence, comfort, and confidence to so many - and we’re proud to amplify their story.
Meet the Board Members Up for Re-Election
has served on the SWACU Board of Directors as Vice Chairman of the Board and the Supervisory Committee Chairman for over 40 years and now as Chairman of the Board. Mr. Bursey retired from Southwest Airlines in 1999 after 24 years of service and the US Department of Homeland Security in 2016 after 13 years. Mr. Bursey is committed to the continued success of Southwest Airlines Federal Credit Union and its membership. Mr. Bursey is married to Barbara Bursey, who retired from Southwest Airlines in 2004 after 21 years.
has worked in a variety of roles during her 45 years of service with Southwest Airlines. She currently serves as a Southwest Flight Dispatcher and works in the Network Operations Center. Additionally, she is a Designated Dispatch Examiner for the Federal Aviation Administration. Carla serves on several safety and communication committees at Southwest. Mrs. Caisse has been a member of the Airline Dispatchers Federation since 1991. She served in several leadership roles for that organization for a decade. Carla was honored to receive the Southwest Airlines’ President’s Award from Herb Kelleher and Gary Kelly in 2007 and more recently from Bob Jordan in 2022. Mrs. Caisse has been a member of the Southwest Airlines Federal Credit Union since her March 1980 hire date. Carla is married and makes her home in Irving, Texas along with her husband Steve. Her family includes a son, 2 daughters, and four spunky grandchildren.
opened an account with the Southwest Airlines Federal Credit Union over 25 years ago and is thankful for the opportunity to continue to serve as a member of the Board. Her journey with Southwest Airlines started at the BWI ticket counter and brought her to HDQ in 2001. Along with years of operational experience, Melissa has a passion for Customer Service and a genuine curiosity about all things. Melissa is proud to support the continued success of the Southwest Airlines Federal Credit Union and its Members.
is a seasoned aviation leader and Boeing 737 Captain at Southwest Airlines. Cory has served as a Pilot since 2004, the same year he opened his account with SWACU. With over two decades of experience in both ight operations and pilot development, Cory currently leads as Senior Manager of Pilot Pathways and Recruitment, shaping the future of Southwest’s pilot pipeline through strategic programs. His leadership has been recognized with the prestigious President’s Award in 2020, re ecting his impact on recruitment, onboarding, and mentorship across the airline. Beyond the cockpit, Cory has held in uential roles within the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA). He is known for his strengths in aviation, positivity, and futuristic thinking. As a member of the Southwest Airlines Federal Credit Union Board of Directors, Cory is deeply commited to improving the nancial well-being of it’s members.
