Bogdan Chmielewski

Bogdan Chmielewski
Born	Poland
Nationality	Polish-American
Occupation	CEO of the Polish & Slavic Federal Credit Union
Years active	2007–present
Known for	Expanding PSFCU, supporting Polish-American community, international credit union cooperation
Awards

Bogdan Chmielewski is a Polish-American financial executive who has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Polish & Slavic Federal Credit Union (PSFCU) since 2007.^[1] Under his leadership, PSFCU has grown into one of the largest ethnic credit unions in the United States, with over $2.5 billion in assets and more than 130,000 members across multiple states.^[2] Chmielewski is known for promoting Polish-American financial empowerment and cross-Atlantic cooperation with Polish institutions.

Chmielewski became CEO of PSFCU in 2007, a period marked by the credit union's efforts to expand beyond its East Coast roots. In a 2007 interview with Credit Union Journal, he outlined ambitions to grow PSFCU’s presence into Florida and Arizona, stating, "We serve the financial needs of Polish immigrants… something I always dreamed of doing."^[3]

Throughout his tenure, Chmielewski has overseen significant institutional growth. By the end of 2023, PSFCU reported over $2.52 billion in assets and $20.1 million in net income, a record in its history.^[4] The credit union also achieved record membership growth, adding over 10,000 new members in that year alone.

Chmielewski has supported numerous PSFCU initiatives focused on cultural and educational outreach. He has represented the credit union at events such as the annual Pulaski Day Parade, Polish cultural galas, and community commemorations. In November 2024, he met with Agata Kornhauser-Duda, the First Lady of Poland, to discuss charitable collaborations and cultural initiatives organized by PSFCU.^[5]

Chmielewski also welcomed then-NCUA Chairman Rodney E. Hood in 2019 at the opening of a World War II exhibit. In his remarks, he emphasized PSFCU’s longstanding support of Polish-American immigrants, noting that the institution had helped thousands access financial services including car loans, mortgages, and savings accounts.^[6]

Chmielewski has publicly addressed issues affecting the global credit union sector. In a 2015 interview, he criticized the Polish government's regulatory stance on SKOKs (credit unions), stating: "In America, credit unions for decades have enjoyed respect and federal support… I am very surprised by the actions of the current government in Poland, which from the standpoint of Poland’s economic interest is very irresponsible, even hostile."^[7]

In 2008, he also called for greater cooperation between U.S. and Polish credit unions, highlighting shared values and the potential to build a "credit union bridge" across the Atlantic.^[8]

Chmielewski has received several official honors in recognition of his contributions to the Polish-American community. These include:

• The Gold Cross of Merit of the Republic of Poland, awarded for his work promoting Polish culture abroad.^[9]

• The Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland for strengthening U.S.-Poland relations through economic and civic engagement.^[10]

Chmielewski immigrated to the United States in 1989 and later returned permanently in 1996.^[11] He speaks both English and Polish fluently and maintains close ties with Polish institutions and media.

• Official website of the Polish & Slavic Federal Credit Union