What started as a high school co-op position turned into a lifelong career—one marked by leadership, adaptability, and a deep connection to the members she serves. For 45 years, Patti McComsey has worked at Citadel Credit Union.
McComsey began her journey at Citadel as a Coatesville High School student working in the afternoons while attending school in the mornings. Throughout the years, she took on a variety of roles, from receptionist to teller to supervisor, and eventually moved into lending just as Citadel introduced mortgage services. By the 1990s, she had been promoted to director, overseeing multiple offices and even helping to launch Citadel’s Downingtown branch in 2005 while pregnant with her second child.
McComsey still proudly leads that branch today.
During her career, McComsey has played an integral role in Citadel’s expansion, providing insight on how to enhance the member experience and helping to design the credit union’s signature branch model. For her, the most rewarding part of the job has always been the people.
“It’s incredibly fulfilling to help members navigate their financial journeys,” she said. “Some have become part of my daily life. I’ve lived in this area all my life, and I can’t go anywhere without running into someone I’ve helped over the years.”
She even has a longtime member who calls every other Thursday — something he’s done since the 1980s — to check on his direct deposit.
Like the banking industry itself, McComsey’s role has evolved. From the rise of digital banking to shifting customer expectations, she’s embraced change as an opportunity rather than a challenge.
“People have said to me, ‘You must not like change,’” she said. “But I respond, ‘You must not know banking!’”
Adapting to new technologies — whether introducing ATMs, mobile banking, or digital transactions — has been essential, and she’s taken on the responsibility of guiding both employees and members through these transitions.
McComsey’s loyalty to Citadel is a reflection of the credit union’s commitment to its people.
“Citadel has grown, but it has never lost its sense of community,” she said. “We’re not just numbers here. Employees are given opportunities to learn, grow, and form real connections. That’s what makes Citadel special.”
Citadel’s longstanding success is built on a foundation of service, integrity, and a member-first philosophy. As a not-for-profit financial institution, Citadel prioritizes its members over shareholders, reinvesting in better rates, lower fees, and innovative banking solutions designed to support long-term financial well-being. Its member-centric approach extends to its workplace culture as well, fostering an environment where employees are empowered to grow, lead, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.
For employees like McComsey, Citadel isn’t just a place to work — it’s a place to build a career with purpose.
Her advice for those starting in the workforce?
“Know what areas interest you,” she said. “There are so many different paths. And most importantly, be flexible. The landscape is always evolving, and being adaptable is key to success.”
As she looks ahead, McComsey has no plans to slow down just yet.
“I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else,” she said.
And after 45 years, it’s clear Citadel wouldn’t be the same without her.
Learn more about Citadel Credit Union and its unshakeable promise to serve those who work every day to build a better future for us all.
