WARREN, OHIO – 7 17 Credit Union is proud to announce the appointment of Harrison Hochman to its Board of Directors. A dynamic and accomplished entrepreneur, Hochman brings a wealth of experience in financial technology and a passion for innovation that aligns seamlessly with the credit union’s mission of empowering members through financial access, education, and integrity.
Hochman is co-founder and CEO of Sparrow, a groundbreaking fintech platform he helped launch from his parents’ backyard at just 20 years old. Sparrow’s newest product—Crest—is purpose-built to help credit unions and banks deepen member wallet share by automating personalized, multi-product marketing journeys. Without requiring core integration, Crest enables institutions to intelligently promote checking, credit card, loan, and savings products—driving engagement, boosting share of wallet, and reinforcing PFI relationships. Recognized as one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 in the Education category and named one of eleven young global leaders in STEM, environmental, and societal sustainability by the prestigious Straubel Foundation, Hochman has been widely acknowledged for his visionary leadership and dedication to making education more accessible and affordable.
I am honored to join the board of one of the largest credit unions in Ohio. 7 17’s passion for improving the lives of its members and supporting the communities it serves resonates with me and I look forward to working with the board and management to expand the credit union’s reach throughout Ohio and beyond.
Harrison Hochman, Chief Executive Officer of Sparrow
A graduate of Stanford University with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Hochman combines academic excellence with real-world impact.
We are thrilled to welcome Harrison to the board. His forward-thinking mindset and history of innovation in the financial industry align perfectly with our mission to deliver purposeful, people-first banking. As a locally rooted credit union, we believe strongly in the power of banking with intention — supporting our members and communities through meaningful growth and service and we know Harrison will be a tremendous asset to leading that effort.
Paul Marshall, Board Chairman of 7 17 Credit Union
His experience in fintech, commitment to sustainability, and role as a mentor to aspiring entrepreneurs make him an invaluable addition to the 7 17 Credit Union Board. Harrison’s appointment further contributes to 7 17’s investment in our member’s digital experience and enhancement to the ease of use of our mobile and online banking tools. It further underscores 7 17 Credit Union’s dedication to innovation, financial education, and a future shaped by responsible, community-focused banking.
John Demmler, President and Chief Executive Officer of 7 17 Credit Union
About 7 17 Credit Union:
7 17 Credit Union is the largest credit union in Northeast Ohio with 13 branch locations and more than 120,000 members. Established in 1957, we’re proud to help people improve their lives financially and support the communities we serve. Anyone living in Northeast Ohio is eligible to open accounts with 7 17. To learn more about 7 17, our services, and how to join, visit www.717cu.com.
About Sparrow:
Sparrow partners with over 100 credit unions representing $100B+ in assets and 6 million members. Through Sparrow, credit unions accelerate hyper-targeted digital relationship-building—unlocking deeper conversations and stronger connections. The Crest platform crowdsources best-practice automated journeys from high-performing peers, placing the right message in front of the right member at the right time. The result: more multi-product relationships and smarter member engagement.