Meet the Client Relations Team | Raquel Collazo

Professional Background and Pension Fund

What is your job title? What territories do you serve?

I am an Assistant Vice President for Client Relations. I serve Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, the Northeastern states and all Spanish speaking members across the U.S & Puerto Rico.

What career path brought you to Pension Fund? Do you mind sharing more about your professional background?

Before joining Pension Fund, I was a Private Client Banker for one of the largest banks in the U.S. Prior to that, I worked at a credit union. As a banker, I had my Series 6 & 63 investment licenses and was also a Small Business Specialist. I helped clients with all their needs, from establishing personal or business accounts to discussing investments and business loan options. I also had managerial responsibilities and helped staff with their professional development plans.

What is your favorite thing about working at Pension Fund?

My favorite thing about working at Pension Fund is that I get to serve in a ministry and help members understand our products. I’ve always had a passion for finance and customer service. It feels good to know you are helping someone reach their financial goals! I get to serve and connect with many members I have known for years as I’ve grown up in the church. I especially love meeting new members and welcoming them to Pension Fund.

What do you wish every member knew about Pension Fund or our products and programs?

It is hard to limit it to one thing. I wish every member knew that you can participate in both the TDRA 403(b) & Pension Plan (if eligible). I also wish they knew that you can rollover funds to Pension Fund and that we have a wonderful high-yield savings account called the BAA.

At Pension Fund, our mission is “For the Support of Ministry,” in your time at Pension Fund, do you have a moment or story of serving out our mission that has impacted you in a important or meaningful way?

Certainly! I am originally from Puerto Rico and grew up in the Disciples of Christ (DOC) church in Puerto Rico. In 2017, Hurricane Maria devastated the entire island of Puerto Rico, causing a major humanitarian crisis. In a time when the government was slow to respond and send help, Pension Fund stepped up and sent power generators to many DOC churches on the island. This assistance saved lives. I still remember when this was announced in our staff huddle, and it made me feel so proud of the ministry that Pension Fund is, and I am blessed to serve here.

Preparing for General Assembly

What are you most looking forward to about General Assembly this year?

I am looking forward to connecting with old and new friends, and I look forward to assisting members who want to establish a new account. My favorite part about GA is worship and the after sessions.

Do you have any plans to explore Memphis? Where?

I am not sure if I will have time, but I would love to go on the river boat cruise.

Four Fast Facts

If you gave a 10-minute TED Talk today, what would it be about?

If I were to give a TED Talk, I would probably talk about the effects of social media & technology on our society.

What is one surprising fact others might not know about you?

One surprising fact about me is that I am a huge NBA fan, and I follow way too many sports accounts. The NBA conference finals are taking place right now and the games are getting intense. It has been a great series so far.

What is your favorite thing to eat and/or cook and why?

I love to cook Asian food because there are so many different things you can make.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

If I could live anywhere in the world, I would live in Spain or Thailand. They are both very beautiful countries with lots of history and stunning temples. I love their culture and cuisine.