Grand Altitude Federal Credit Union is proud to announce that its President and CEO, Brian Rohrbacher, has been named the 2025 Summit Advocate of the Year by the GoWest Credit Union Association.
The Summit Advocate Award honors an individual who embodies the credit union mission and makes advocacy an integral part of their organization’s culture. Rohrbacher, a 25-year credit union veteran and CEO at Grand Altitude for more than a decade, was recognized for his outstanding leadership, commitment to community, and tireless work advancing credit union priorities across Wyoming and the region.
“Brian’s leadership is grounded in service — to his members, community, and the broader credit union movement,” said Jennifer Wagner, GoWest’s Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer. “He leads with authenticity and humility, and his dedication to ensuring credit unions have a strong voice in public policy has made a lasting impact.”
Under Rohrbacher’s leadership, Grand Altitude has become a trusted partner in the Lander community — from his active role in the local Chamber of Commerce and veterans’ groups, to listening directly to member feedback that led to hiring an agricultural loan officer to better serve Wyoming’s farmers and ranchers.
“Brian has also played a key role in uniting local leaders to address housing challenges in Fremont County, convening elected officials and community stakeholders to collaborate on solutions that strengthen the region’s long-term stability,” said Kristy Carper, Chief Operating Officer for Grand Altitude Federal Credit Union. “His dedication and leadership go beyond the walls of the credit union and deep into the community.”
At the state and federal levels, he has been a steadfast advocate for credit unions by participating in countless Hike the Hill visits, nurturing relationships with Wyoming’s congressional delegation, and serving as the Wyoming PAC Trustee.
Most notably, Rohrbacher helped lead the successful, decades-long effort to pass public funds legislation during the 2025 Wyoming legislative session — a milestone that allows local governments greater flexibility to partner with credit unions. Over the span of two years, he traveled across the state to meet with local officials, attend municipal association meetings, and help build the coalition of support that made the bill’s passage possible.
Rohrbacher’s commitment to community also extends beyond advocacy. This summer, he joined credit union colleagues from across the state at Frontier Days to present Governor Mark Gordon and First Lady Jennie Gordon with a $20,000 donation supporting the Beef for Backpacks program, which helps ensure Wyoming students have reliable access to local, high-quality protein.
“This recognition reflects Brian’s deep belief that advocacy isn’t just about legislation — it’s about listening, collaborating, and creating opportunities that strengthen communities,” said Khrystyn Lutz, Chief Risk Officer for Grand Altitude Federal Credit Union. “We’re proud to see his passion and leadership honored in this way.”
Through his commitment to “People Helping People,” Brian Rohrbacher continues to inspire others to engage, lead, and make a difference.
Grand Altitude Federal Credit Union is a member-owned financial cooperative providing financial services to members who live, work, worship, attend school in, or volunteer in Wyoming. Based in Lander, Wy., the credit union has offices in Lander, Riverton, and Shoshoni.
GoWest Credit Union Association is the trade association representing credit unions in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. GoWest advocates on behalf of nearly 300 member credit unions, and their 17.4 million consumer members.