The 2024 Governor’s Financial Literacy Awards honored recipients in one of three categories, individual, organization, or legacy, for providing exceptional financial literacy and capability education in an inclusive and innovative manner. The legacy award is given to an organization, business, or individual whose purpose and heritage is ingrained in sustained financial literacy and capability efforts.
Blackhawk Community Credit Union
Since 2009, Blackhawk Community Credit Union has made financial education accessible and relevant by establishing two high school student-run branches, providing students with direct real-world experience in managing finances. Additionally, Blackhawk participates in the Youth Apprenticeship program, employing six students annually who are mentored by staff. This past year, the Blackhawk Community’s financial literacy initiatives helped over 5,000 students.
Capital Credit Union
Capital Credit Union’s vision is to inspire financial well-being for all through access, care, and collaboration. Capital does this by providing access to communities by offering classes and events on-site at schools, YMCAs, chambers of commerce, local businesses, and non-profits. For children, Capital’s interactive app makes learning about money engaging right at home, while adults benefit from on-demand micro-learning modules. During 2024, over 32,000 individuals were served.
Simplicity Credit Union
Simplicity Credit Union is a financial cooperative located in central Wisconsin with a mission to keep the complex simple. Simplicity’s financial education program includes in-school branches with Loyal, Marshfield, and Stevens Point high schools and extends to the classroom. Each lesson that Simplicity’s employees deliver is created to be age-appropriate and meet state standards, including lessons on saving, budgeting, decision making, cyber security, and more.
Victor Frasher, Educators Credit Union
Since 1999, Victor has been a dedicated advocate for financial literacy at Educators Credit Union, impacting thousands of high school students through initiatives like “Reality Day.” This event, supported by over 350 volunteers, has provided essential financial education to more than 4,000 students, helping them navigate real-life financial situations. Victor helped launch the Educators Credit Union partnership with Zogo, a gamified financial learning app. Victor’s extensive experience in various roles, from teller to director of community engagement, highlights his commitment to serving the community. He has created and maintains numerous partnerships and financial literacy programs. Victor’s contributions not only strengthen individual financial knowledge but also foster a more financially literate community overall.
Maurice "Maury" Dresang (posthumous)
Former President & CEO, Community First Credit Union
Maury Dresang didn’t just lead a credit union—he helped shape The Credit Union Movement as we know it today. Maury’s story began in 1953, when he helped Outagamie County employees form a credit union, working from the trunk of his car to take deposits and approve loans with nothing but a handshake and trust. But he had a bigger vision. He believed that credit unions could be more than small workplace institutions—they could be powerful forces for good in the community. In 1970, he established one of the first shared service centers in the country, uniting multiple employer-based credit unions under one roof. Five years later, he did something even bolder—he obtained a state charter for Appleton Community Credit Union, paving the way for everyday people to join. Then came his greatest triumph: changing the law to allow credit union mergers. At a time when Wisconsin statutes forbade it, Maury lobbied lawmakers, proving that credit unions were stronger together than apart. In 1978, he engineered the largest credit union merger in the nation’s history, combining thirteen individual credit unions into what would eventually become Community First Credit Union.
Over the decades, Maury also was a leader in the industry, serving for 21 years on The Wisconsin Credit Union League’s Board of Directors, including as Board Chair from 1986-1989. He was also Chair of Corporate Central Credit Union, ensuring credit unions had the financial tools they needed to thrive, and he served on America’s Credit Unions Board and multiple committees over his career. By the time he retired in 1994, Community First had grown from $7 million in assets and 7,000 members to $155 million in assets and 48,000 members. Today, his vision lives on—Community First now serves 159,000 members with over $6 billion in assets. His profound accomplishes were honored in 2017 when the street leading to Community First’s new headquarters was named Dresang Way. While Maury passed away in 2019 at the age of 90, his legacy lives on in every credit union that thrives, every member who finds financial security, and every leader who believes in the power of cooperation.
Paul Grinde
Former Executive Vice President, Former Community Development Officer, CoVantage Credit Union
Paul Grinde embodies the credit union motto of “People Helping People.” Those who have interacted with Paul quickly realize his caring heart and creative, dedicated mind. Paul began his career in The Credit Union Movement in 1995, serving as Executive Vice President with CoVantage Credit Union. He oversaw much of the credit union’s operations and greatly contributed to its mission-focused approach in serving member-owners. During his time at CoVantage from 1995 to 2012, the credit union grew from just over $100 million in assets to $1 billion. Additionally, from 2012 to 2019, Paul served as Community Development Officer, assisting with CoVantage’s CDFI and community efforts.
Paul’s dedication to community service shines through in every project he undertakes, as he consistently rises to challenges and strives to positively impact lives, especially for those in need. He played a pivotal role in helping CoVantage receive their CDFI certification and assisted other credit unions aspiring to become Community Development Credit Unions. He is a nationally recognized speaker on services to the unbanked and underserved, and has guided numerous credit union and non-profit professionals, helping them grow and inspiring them to find creative solutions to complex problems. His work has strengthened CoVantage and created a ripple effect across his community and the country. Paul’s commitment to mentorship has made a lasting impact on his peers and further showcases his character, as he willingly shares his knowledge and experience, often over lunch (Paul never missed a potluck). Paul truly exemplifies The Credit Union Movement and personifies CoVantage’s mission.
Remarks from Paul: Parents often worry about the friends their children make, knowing that friendships shape values, interests, perspectives, and provide both support and encouragement. As children grow into adults, the influence of friends and coworkers remains just as significant. I am honored to be recognized as a Legend of the Movement, and I see this as a tribute to the people I have worked alongside—friends, coworkers, business associates, and credit union members.
Thank you for allowing me to represent the work accomplished by CoVantage Credit Union, Inclusiv, and our members. While I have often been a spokesperson for many projects, the real impact came from the efforts of the staff—meeting face-to-face with members, advocating for their needs, and shaping policies and procedures that benefited both members and the Credit Union.
A special acknowledgment goes to Brian Prunty and Charlie Zanayed, whose first question for any proposal was always: How does this affect the members? Their dedication ensured that every decision prioritized member well-being. Likewise, Mary Raddant of CoVantage documented critical information that shaped product development, ensured compliance, and secured essential grants.
The CoVantage Board provided invaluable guidance and accountability, while allowing staff the flexibility to explore innovative approaches. Pablo DeFilippi, Cathie Mahon of Inclusiv, and Dierdre Silverman, formerly of Alternatives Federal Credit Union, offered inspiration and tools to create meaningful programs that profoundly impacted the lives of our members.
None of our achievements would have been possible without our loyal members. Despite facing hardships—job loss, health challenges, economic struggles, and unforeseen circumstances—they remained committed to the Credit Union. Their loyalty enabled us to continue lending when others pulled back. In addition, we were able to offer innovative loan programs and grant-funded opportunities. Time and time again, our members rose to the challenge, successfully repaying unproven loan programs. These grant funds now exist in a revolving loan fund, helping individuals who might not otherwise qualify for financial assistance.
On behalf of myself, my friends, coworkers, business associates, and our members—thank you for this recognition.
Greg Hilbert
Former President & CEO, Fox Communities Credit Union
In 1980, Greg Hilbert became President/CEO of Combined Locks Credit Union. At that time, the credit union was a single branch near the Combined Locks Mill with four team members and $3 million in assets. Under Greg’s leadership, the credit union grew exponentially and—40 years later—had over 400 team members, 100,000 members and more than $1.8 billion in assets. Greg became the guiding hand during the credit union’s formidable moments, including our name change to Fox Communities Credit Union in 1987. As President/CEO, Greg was always focused on the needs of the membership, and it was by his example that our people-first culture was solidified. The credit union's reputation for being trustworthy, impartial, and helpful became widespread, membership grew, its selection of competitive financial products and services expanded, and, in 2017, Fox Communities was recognized as the No. 1-rated credit union in the nation by S&P Global Market Intelligence’s annual ranking.
Always a champion of service, Greg encouraged involvement in local communities. It was Greg’s enthusiasm and support for community service that paved the way for us to become even more invested in many area non-profit organizations. Greg demonstrated by his example and leadership the true definition of a credit union that is driven from the heart. He was well respected by his peers and often a reliable source for smaller credit unions. Greg retired in 2020, but his many contributions to Fox and our communities have had a profound impact over the years and continue to make a lasting impression on our future.
Remarks from Greg: Thank you to The League for this recognition of my efforts to help others and make a difference within The Credit Union Movement! When I was first hired to lead our credit union, I remember learning how the credit union had bought a used teller counter from a local bank and the credit union board “volunteered their own time” to install it. It was very inspiring to witness their commitment to the credit union. I was continually impressed with how important the credit union was to them to help our members and the community. Their commitment and strong sense of purpose to help others motivated me then and I carried that through my career. Over the years, I often shared this story with new team members of how important the credit union mission was to our early founders and how it is still valid today. I always felt so lucky that we as team members get to have a career where our job is to help people and make a difference.
Max Michaelson
Former President & CEO, CCU Ambassador, Co-op Credit Union
Max Michaelson’s leadership and dedication has left a lasting impact on both Co-op Credit Union (CCU) and The Credit Union Movement. Starting in1988 as CCU’s President & CEO, Max guided the credit union through a period of exceptional growth and transformation, increasing assets from $37 million to $165 million and membership to 11,938 by his retirement in 2007. Under his leadership, CCU navigated two core system conversions, added ATM and debit cards to its product list, introduced a website and online banking, and aided in designing and updating four buildings, including the main office in 2000.
However, Max’s passion for credit unions also went far beyond Black River Falls and CCU. He worked hard at both the state and national levels to ensure credit unions remained a viable option for all consumers and was a strong advocate for credit unions through his service to The Wisconsin Credit Union League’s Board of Directors and Government Affairs Committee. Notably, Max championed several significant bylaw changes, including the introduction of share draft authority and an expanded field of membership. Max's leadership and vision established credit unions as financially strong and progressive. Today, he continues to be an Ambassador at CCU and—even in retirement—remains involved in The Credit Union Movement, mentoring and guiding new leaders. His passion for The Credit Union Movement remains unwavering, and his contributions to both the community and the industry are far-reaching and enduring.
Val Mindak
President & CEO, Park City Credit Union
Val has been in The Movement for over 40 years, including leading Park City Credit Union as CEO & President for the past sixteen years. Her commitment to bringing innovative retail strategies and digital services to the credit union’s 26,000+ member-owners has been the driving force behind Park City’s rapid growth and success with members and staff, earning the credit union a 5-Star Rating from BauerFinancial, inclusion in the top 250 regional banks/credit unions nationally selected by Newsweek due to excellent member review ratings, and a “Great Place to Work” designation in 2025.
Through her decades of incredible service, Val has represented Wisconsin’s credit unions at the state and national level in ways almost too numerous to count. She is the current Chair of Corporate Central Credit Union’s Board of Directors, former Chair of The League’s Board of Directors, former Chair of The League’s Services Corp., and former Chair of The League’s Government Affairs Committee. She also served on the Advisory Council representing the Ninth District of the Federal Reserve and is a current appointee on America's Credit Unions Examination & Supervision subcommittee.
Val’s passion for developing emerging leaders in the industry is evident in her support of her staff and her instrumental involvement in the development of credit union young professionals and various women’s leadership groups and educational events to foster the next generation of women credit union leaders.
Additionally, she also has received the designation of Certified Chief Executive Officer (CCE), the highest designation within our industry with certifications from Cornell, Darden, and Wharton colleges, and was selected to join the CEO 40 Group, which recognizes strategic and innovative leadership talent across the United States.
Val’s tireless dedication to her members, her staff, her peers, her community, and The Credit Union Movement is truly legendary and more than deserving of celebration.
Remarks from Val: Thank you for this distinguished award. In my 44 years I have had the opportunity to serve on so many committees and to help build new initiatives to meet the evolving needs of the industry – I am so thankful and blessed to have met so many amazing leaders and for the opportunity to make a “difference!” My excitement to give back and to encourage future leaders to have passion and purpose is what gives my “life’s” work meaning.
Nancy Morgan
Chief Operating Officer, Corporate Central Credit Union
Nancy Morgan has spent her entire professional life living the credit union principle of “People Helping People” and serving members. While she began her career at a retail credit union, her legacy was forged when she joined Corporate Central in 1992. Over the past 33 years, Nancy has made a profound impact on Wisconsin credit unions, championing their success while uplifting every colleague and credit union professional fortunate enough to work alongside her. Nancy’s leadership and adaptability are unmatched. Over her remarkable tenure at Corporate Central, Nancy has demonstrated incredible flexibility and leadership skills, having led every department at one time or another and having guided the organization through unparalleled change.
As the Chief Operating Officer, she has been instrumental in developing and launching innovative products and services that have empowered Wisconsin’s credit unions to compete and better serve their members. Additionally, Nancy has ensured credit unions have a seat at the table through her service to various payment associations. Credit unions and Corporate Central’s staff have come to rely on Nancy’s incredible depth of knowledge in the payment space, particularly check processing, image cash letter, domestic and international wires, ACH, and instant payments. Her expertise has driven innovation, keeping Corporate Central and our credit union members ahead in emerging payment solutions and ensuring a competitive edge in the evolving financial landscape. Beyond her remarkable expertise, it is Nancy’s character that sets her apart. A kind heart, a passion for people, and an amazing selfless spirit are the hallmarks of the “Nancy Difference” and what makes her a true Legend of The Movement.
Brian Prunty
Former President & CEO, CoVantage Credit Union
Brian not only played a pivotal role at CoVantage Credit Union as President and CEO but was—and still is—a leader in The Credit Union Movement. A leader is not defined by one’s own successes, but by the success of others, which is something Brian modeled in and out of the credit union.
Through his leadership, Brian not only grew CoVantage into a very successful organization that fostered the financial well-being of its members, but he also played pivotal roles in The Credit Union Movement through his advocacy efforts and the various board positions he held over the years. As a role model and mentor to many, he always lived by the philosophy of putting members first.
Brian’s name is well-known to many within the industry who all have kind words to say about his dedication and impact. To call Brian a Legend of The Movement is an honor and understatement to the impact and lasting impression he left behind in his years of service to credit unions.
Brett Thompson
Former President & CEO, The Wisconsin Credit Union League
Brett served as President & CEO of The Wisconsin Credit Union League for over 22 years, representing the interests of Wisconsin’s credit unions and their 3.9 million members with a 96% affiliation rate. During Brett’s tenure, he oversaw the opening of The League’s Credit Union House in Madison, the formation of The Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation, the development of Reach Business Lenders to help credit unions source and originate commercial loans, the growth of the Compliance Specialists program to reduce regulatory burden on credit unions, and the creation of Saver’s Sweepstakes®, a statewide program to encourage healthy savings habits.
Additionally, under his leadership, The League prioritized improved understanding and appreciation for The Credit Union Difference through effective data and story sharing. The League now has a depository of over 250 stories that showcase the ways credit unions, as not-for-profit cooperatives, serve members in ways that other financial institutions can’t or won’t. As a result of his vision for The League’s advocacy efforts, public support in Wisconsin for the credit union tax exemption rose from 45% in 2005 to 83% in 2023.
Beyond Wisconsin, Brett served on the Boards of the American Association of Credit Union Leagues, Filene Research Institute, and the National Credit Union Foundation, as well as America’s Credit Unions Executive, Corporate Governance, and Government Affairs Committees. He received the American Association of Credit Union League’s Farley and Eagle awards, the Cooperative Network’s Cooperative Builder award, and was inducted into the Credit Union House Hall of Leaders. Brett’s contributions strengthened The Movement, appreciation for The Credit Union Difference, and enhanced credit unions’ work toward financial well-being for all.
Remarks from Brett: “Thank you so much for this tremendous honor and the opportunity to participate in this great Movement for more than 35 years. Truth be told, Wisconsin credit unions have excelled because there are countless legendary leaders who have helped make credit unions the financial institution of choice in our state. I encourage each of you to give consideration to honoring the individuals who were instrumental in building your credit union. Not only will that give due to those who made our Movement what it is today, but it also propels us forward by supporting The Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation."
Catherine Tierney
President & CEO, Community First Credit Union
At the heart of Community First Credit Union is a belief that financial services should be more than transactions, that a credit union should be a trusted partner in life’s journey. For nearly five decades, Cathie Tierney has embodied this belief, inspiring a Movement where people always come first. Since joining in 1976 and becoming President & CEO in 1994, Cathie has led Community First with unwavering dedication and a deep commitment to service. She often describes her role as a conductor, ensuring every person in the organization contributes to something extraordinary. Under her leadership, Community First has grown from $156 million in assets and 48,000 members to over $6 billion in assets and 160,000 members all while remaining steadfast in its mission to put people first.
A champion for the industry, Cathie’s impact reaches far beyond Community First. She has been a relentless advocate for credit unions, shaping policy and protecting The Movement at state and national levels. In 2008, Cathie played a pivotal role in a landmark lawsuit against the IRS, protecting credit unions from unfair taxation. Community First was honored with the 2010 Credit Union Times Trailblazer Award, and Cathie received the CU HERO Award from America’s Credit Unions.
In the late 1990s, Cathie also launched a groundbreaking financial literacy program in partnership with the Appleton Area School District, benefiting thousands of students. She has served on the Governor’s Council for Financial Literacy and received the Governor’s Award (2009) and the Legacy Lifetime Achievement Award (2017). As a board member and strategic leader within The Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation and Unity Fund Committee, Cathie has influenced policy, governance, and best practices nationwide to shape the future of The Movement.
Cathie is a tireless champion for leadership development, ensuring the future success of credit unions by investing in rising leaders. Many executives credit her as a mentor and role model. When she was named one of American Banker’s 25 Most Powerful Women in Credit Unions in 2024, she dedicated the honor to the 600 team members who make Community First what it is every day. Her leadership has driven exceptional performance, earning Community First 16 consecutive Raddon Crystal Performance Awards, recognizing it as one of the nation’s top 10 credit unions for financial strength. But, for Cathie, awards are secondary to impact. Cathie Tierney is more than a leader; she is a force for good, a believer in the power of people, and a true legend of The Credit Union Movement.
Colleen Woggon
President & CEO, Oakdale Credit Union
Colleen’s impressive career in credit unions and the numerous key leadership roles she’s held over the years would probably not be found on her LinkedIn profile, in a press release, or perhaps even on her resume. Colleen isn't driven by formal recognition of her accomplishments, but rather by her strong convictions and passion for helping others—whether that be her members, colleagues, employees, community members, family, or friends.
Colleen’s distinguished career at Oakdale Credit Union has blazed a trail for women in leadership in the financial industry and for emerging professionals who are eager to make their mark on The Movement. She has served on numerous boards and committees within the industry and her community, including The League’s Board of Directors, Asset Builders of America, the Juneau County Affordable Housing Community Action Team, and as an executive appointee on the Credit Union Review Board—to name a few.
Being the CEO of a midsize credit union certainly comes with its challenges, like rapidly evolving changes in technology, regulatory compliance, and consumer expectations. Colleen has maintained a 360-degree view of planning, executing, and overseeing all areas of the credit union and does whatever it takes to ensure her staff and members are supported—even if it means running a teller drawer on a Saturday morning! Her commitment to advocacy, young professional development, mentorship, collaboration, participation, and fundraising have made a lasting material impact on the credit union industry that’s worthy of acclaim, even if you won’t hear it from her first.