MIDDLE TENNESSEE - After more than four decades of service, Peggy Stubblefield, Chief Human Resources Officer at Ascend Federal Credit Union, is officially retiring. Ascend, headquartered in Tullahoma and known as Middle Tennessee’s largest credit union, announced her departure as a celebration of a storied career that began in 1982 and evolved into a lasting legacy of leadership, innovation, and dedication.
Stubblefield’s career started humbly as a certificate clerk. Over the years, she advanced steadily within the Human Resources Department, eventually being named Chief Human Resources Officer in 2014. Her role extended well beyond her office in Tullahoma—she worked closely with employees across Ascend’s widespread service area, including seven branches in Rutherford County, serving communities in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, and LaVergne.
“We would like to thank Peggy for her exceptional contributions at Ascend,” said Matt Jernigan, Ascend President and CEO. “Her long-standing tenure has shaped and influenced our team, especially in human resources. We wish her a happy retirement and hope she enjoys her next chapter.”
Under Stubblefield’s leadership, Ascend became a standout among national credit unions in employee training and development. The institution earned Training Magazine’s MVP Award for 11 consecutive years, most recently ranking 9th in the country. It also secured a spot on American Banker’s list of best credit unions to work for nine years in a row—recognitions that Stubblefield helped make possible through her forward-thinking HR strategies and commitment to employee well-being.
Reflecting on her journey, Stubblefield shared, “It has been a privilege to serve our Middle Tennessee communities. From my early days to leading our HR department, I’ve been surrounded by talented coworkers, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished. I look forward to more time with family and cheering on Ascend from the sidelines.”
Stubblefield’s last day with the credit union is Wednesday, May 28, officially marking the end of an era—and the beginning of well-earned retirement.
