Leadership
Meet the Team Who Drives the Granite State Credit Union Vision!
Denise Barstow
President & CEO
Many members have been surprised to receive an instant response to a late-night email inquiry from Granite State Credit Union’s CEO, Denise Barstow. But those who know her recognize that she embraces an “always in touch, hands on,” approach to the way she leads the credit union and her life. Her remarkable ascent from teller to CEO, in part stems from this dedicated approach.
Denise earned her BS and MBA from Southern New Hampshire University, serves on multiple Boards of Directors, and is devoted to family and community. Born and raised in Belmont, Denise grew up on a farm tending to crops and caring for animals. Here, her sense of nurturing that has remained a touchstone in her life took root. Staying in touch with those around her and taking care of their needs is second nature. Whether running errands with her kids, spending time with her grandkids, or simply enjoying a quiet dinner with her husband at home, she remains tuned into the needs of her family... and her credit union.
Michele Plaza
Executive VP & CIO
As the mom of three busy teens, juggling academic and athletic activities, making dinner and then planning the next family party is just an average day for Michele. Her family and children are her passion. One look at her face as she watches her children participate in the activities that they are passionate about, and you see her pride in their achievements. Michele recognizes that Information Technology is a 24-hour a day job and her love of technology allows her to remain connected and proactive to member needs any time - day or night. Michele participates on the credit union’s Online and Mobile Banking vendor’s Advisory Council, providing a direct channel for member feedback to reach those responsible for development of those solutions. She understands that technology is intertwined in everyone’s lives making it easier to juggle everyday demands, while remaining passionately connected to what matters most, family.
Karen LaPlume
Executive VP & COO
In her more than 30 years with the credit union, Karen has overseen numerous areas of the organization including Consumer Lending and the Call Center. The fast-paced environment and variety of her responsibilities make GSCU the perfect fit to her. Karen is passionate about the possibilities of the journey at hand! From ensuring the best possible member-experience at GSCU, to planning her next travel adventure, she isn't afraid to dream spectacularly! She enjoys being outdoors hiking, biking, and kayaking. Karen and her husband have two grown daughters and she loves spending time with the family and friends. When asked how she has stayed with one company for so long her answer is always the same – the people she works with.
Lisa Barowski
executive VP & CFO
Not only is Lisa a long-time employee of the credit union, but she’s been a member almost all of her life as well! Lisa has overseen the Compliance and eServices areas of the credit union but her passion is in Accounting and she has managed that area for over 20 years. Lisa came to work at the credit union after being part of a GSCU year-end financial audit as a certified public accountant. Having worked in banking during college, followed by eight years in public accounting, she recognized and appreciated the unique culture at GSCU, and she took the opportunity to join the team! Lisa is a lifelong New Hampshire resident and is happiest spending time with her family. Whether relaxing at the family camp with her nieces and nephews, or picking blueberries all Summer long, family is the most important thing to Lisa. And for Lisa, the credit union has become an important extension of her family over the years. Lisa is a member of the NH Society of CPAs, as well as the AICPA. Ensuring that the credit union is financially sound and ready to assist members for years to come, is what fuels her drive to continue learning and growing with the credit union.
