SALEM, Ore. – Members of State Employees Credit Union have overwhelmingly approved a merger with First Tech Credit Union of Beaverton, Ore., officials have announced. The merger, effective Dec. 31, was approved by 78% of SECU members who voted by mail or at a special membership meeting on Monday. SECU has more than 26,000 members and $137 million in assets. First Tech has more than 85,000 members and $1.1 billion in assets. The merger is expected to bring expanded services and convenience to SECU members as well as offering more opportunities for its staff. "Over time, SECU members will see added services and benefits to their credit union membership in the form of improved online banking, free bill payment, aggregation, investment services, insurance options and more," said Tom Sargent, president/CEO at First Tech. "Together, we'll be helping a lot of credit union members with their banking needs." SECU President Larry Queen said he was pleased by the vote. "As we work through the transition, members can expect the same high quality of member service, an expanded selection of products and services, and additional branch and ATM locations," he said.