Kathryn Munger, M.A.
Kathryn Munger, M.A., is a digital experience leader and community-focused executive currently serving as Assistant Vice President of Digital at Heritage Family Credit Union in Rutland, Vermont. With more than fifteen years of experience spanning digital strategy, web development, social media, and online engagement, she oversees the credit union’s member-facing digital ecosystem, ensuring that technology-driven interactions reflect the same trust, accessibility, and personalization members expect from a community financial institution. Her work centers on aligning digital innovation with organizational values and member needs. Throughout her career, Kathryn has built and scaled digital departments across higher education and financial services. She led Heritage Family Credit Union’s full transformation from a legacy online banking system to a modern digital platform, serving as project manager and strategic partner during implementation and significantly increasing member adoption post-launch. Prior to her work in banking, she held leadership roles at Castleton University, where she managed digital media operations, taught communication and media courses as part-time faculty, and supported enrollment and recruitment initiatives through innovative digital outreach. She also maintains an active consulting practice, advising small businesses on digital presence, websites, and social media strategy. Deeply invested in her community, Kathryn is a founding member and longtime leader of Rutland Young Professionals, a nonprofit dedicated to civic engagement and economic development, and has served as President of the Board for multiple local organizations. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes empathy, active listening, and understanding lived experience as the foundation for effective decision-making. Recognized for her impact, she has been named a VermontBiz Rising Star and a 40 Under 40 honoree. Kathryn holds a Master of Arts in Media Studies from The New School and a Bachelor of Arts in Video and Television Production from Hofstra University, and she continues to advocate for digital equity, community development, and people-centered leadership.
• Emerging Leader Certificate
• Leadership Certificate – Snelling Center for Government
• The New School – M.A. in Media Studies
• Hofstra University – B.A. in Video & Television Production
• VermontBiz Rising Star (2023)
• 40 Under 40
• Values in Action Award – Education & Communications
• CUNA Council
• Founder & First President, Rutland Young Professionals
• President of the Board, Rutland Young Professionals
• President, Downtown Rutland Partnership
• Community support of local nonprofits including housing, food access, libraries, arts, and equity initiatives
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to empathy, active listening, and a deep understanding of lived experience—both my own and others’. Building digital experiences that truly serve people requires listening first, understanding circumstances, and creating solutions that meet real needs. I’ve also been fortunate to work for organizations that value flexibility, trust, and community impact, which has allowed me to grow as both a leader and a parent.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is to focus on understanding people before trying to lead them. Leadership isn’t about authority—it’s about listening, learning, and empowering others. That perspective has shaped how I build teams, approach digital strategy, and serve my community.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to invest in foundational technical skills, practice empathy, and stay deeply connected to their communities. Learn how things actually work—behind the scenes—not just how to manage them. Leadership grows strongest when it’s rooted in service, curiosity, and the willingness to lift others as you advance.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in digital banking is creating online experiences that feel as personal and trustworthy as face-to-face interactions. The challenge is balancing innovation with accessibility, compliance, and empathy—ensuring technology enhances human connection rather than replacing it.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Empathy, community, integrity, and service guide everything I do. I believe leadership is about understanding people’s circumstances, creating inclusive systems, and using skills and privilege to make meaningful, lasting impact—both professionally and personally.