SMITHFIELD, R.I. (July 1, 2026) – Today, Navigant Credit Union announced it has promoted Carlos Vargas to Vice President, Community and Government Relations, reflecting the company’s continued investment in building an industry-leading voice in government affairs and political advocacy on behalf of credit unions.
With over fifteen years of experience serving the finanical interests of Rhode Islanders, Vargas enters the new role as an established industry leader. Since joining Navigant Credit Union in 2022 as Assistant Vice President of Community Development, he has played a pivotal role in strengthening the company’s presence across the state. He’s helped connect members more effectively to products, services, and resources and has established collaborative relationships with government leaders. His efforts have helped improve the financial well-being of the communities, families, and businesses Navigant Credit Union serves.
“We’re very proud to promote Carlos to this new postion and view his promotion as a natural extension of the tremendous work he’s already doing,” said Navigant Credit Union President / CEO Kathy Orovitz. “Carlos has worked tirelessly to build and nuture meaningful relationships with communities, municipalities, and government leaders across Rhode Island. His efforts have helped elevate the Navigant Credit Union brand, deepen our impact, and strengthen our commitment to the individuals, families and businesses we serve.”
In his new role, Vargas will oversee collaboration between Navigant Credit Union’s community engagement and government affairs functions, helping advocate for and strengthen the existing foundation of the credit union business model in Rhode Island. He will build upon existing relationships and partnerships with government leaders, helping to deliver meaningful legislative outcomes that benefit Navigant members, employees, and communities. Additionally, Vargas is deeply engaged in the community and currently serves on several nonprofit boards, including V Teatro ECAS, Pawtucket Central Falls Development, and the Rhode Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. He also serves as Board Member and Chair of the 1910 District for the Narragansett Council, Scouting America. Vargas holds a Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Development from Providence College.
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About Navigant Credit Union
Based in Smithfield, R.I., Navigant Credit Union is the longest-operating member-owned credit union in Rhode Island. Since its founding in 1915, Navigant Credit Union has been dedicated to providing its members with unparalleled financial products and services while working every day to improve the financial well-being of the families, businesses, and communities it serves across Rhode Island. With over $4 billion in assets, more than 165,000 members and 25 physical branch locations, Navigant Credit Union is the oldest and largest credit union in Rhode Island and among the state’s strongest and most trusted financial institutions.
Navigant Credit Union has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s best regional banks and credit unions for three consecutive years and is consistently ranked Rhode Island’s top credit union by Forbes; among Rhode Island’s Fastest Growing + Innovative Companies by Providence Business News and as a top mortgage lender by the Providence Journal. Navigant Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.
