“The story of Marc Stefanski, like the story of Third Federal, is about values-driven leadership. His story demonstrates that putting people first in decision making is good for business, good for colleagues and customers, and good for the communities served by Third Federal. His book contains valuable lessons for leaders in all kinds of organizations.”

Barbara R. Snyder
President, Association of American Universities; President Emerita, Case Western Reserve University

“In many ways, Marc Stefanski is Jimmy Stewart’s George Bailey. Marc cares deeply about people—his associates, his customers, his community, and his family. Additionally, the culture he has worked so hard to create reflects this. I’m proud to say I have worked with Marc on projects that demonstrate his seriousness of purpose and decency. Through People First: The Third Federal Way, he reminds us of the power of simple, people-first values. This book is a must read both because of the story it tells and the author who wrote it.”

Gene Ludwig
Former US Comptroller of the Currency; Founder and CEO, Ludwig Advisors

“Marc has always been a great listener and cool under pressure. It’s evident from reading the stories in this book how his family and his values shaped him into a tremendous leader and led him to become one of the most admired executives in the banking industry. Marc’s core values helped guide his good decision making at Third Federal, which over time transformed the bank into a true success story.”

Jimmy Dunne
Vice Chairman and Senior Managing Partner, Piper Sandler

“What a privilege to say Marc Stefanski’s People First: The Third Federal Way is an engaging book. His insights into leadership, while connecting these principles to personal relationships is an outstanding model to be followed in all aspects of life. There's no doubt that reading this book will enrich your life, whether from a business perspective or a personal perspective.”

Richie Furay
Inductee, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame; American Music Luminary

“I met Marc Stefanski in 2009 when I joined the ‘small, Midwestern college’ that he had attended many years earlier. In one instant, I finally saw Jim Collins' Good to Great concept of Level 5 Leadership centered on "personal humility" and "professional will" in full display at Third Federal. With profound gratitude, I have been fortunate to experience and feel Marc’s authentic family and business core values of love, trust, respect, excellence, and fun over the years that have followed. This book is about living a life and leading others in a way that truly matters.”

Dr. Robert H. Huntington
President, Heidelberg University

“Marc’s personal values translate into everything he does, and have helped him to become a transformative leader and an engaged family man. He is truly a person of empathy and integrity, understanding the importance of balance and purpose, and of giving those around him a voice in decision-making. Marc is an outstanding CEO, but an even better man.”

Joe Ehrmann
President, InSideOut Initiative; Former Defensive Lineman, NFL