On October 29, 2025, UMassFive announced the appointment of Michael Lareau as a new Board Member and Tolulope “Tolu” Odunsi-Nelson as a new Associate Director. Both bring extensive professional expertise and a strong commitment to serving the local community.
Michael Lareau is a veteran technology executive and entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience in information technology, including guiding banks and credit unions through regulatory compliance and technology innovation. A graduate of Springfield Technical Community College with a degree in IT security, he has served on STCC’s IT Advisory Board since 2014. Lareau has been a UMassFive member and advocate for over seven years.
“I’ve seen UMassFive distinguish itself as a forward-thinking, community-driven credit union,” Lareau said. “Its exceptional service and personal touch set the financial institution apart in a crowded market. Following my appointment, I’m eager to contribute to the Credit Union’s continued leadership and adaptability while preserving the values that make it thrive.”
Tolulope “Tolu” Odunsi-Nelson is an attorney, educator, and advocate with extensive governance experience. She earned her J.D. from American University Washington College of Law and began her career as a trial attorney specializing in advocacy, compliance, and risk assessment. Her civil rights work has focused on addressing structural barriers to wealth and financial stability—an area closely aligned with UMassFive’s mission.
“UMassFive’s commitment to helping members build wealth, improve financial literacy, and access fair financial services is directly connected to my career work,” Odunsi-Nelson said. “I am inspired by UMassFive’s leadership in supporting local communities, its emphasis on sustainability, and dedication to member education. Serving the UMassFive membership allows me to contribute my skills and perspective to strengthen an institution that not only provides excellent financial services, but also plays a vital role in advancing inclusion and community well-being.”
UMassFive is excited to continue to fill its Board of Directors with passionate members of our community who want to further our mission of creating access to financial well-being.
