Whether you’re new to The Movement or a seasoned executive, the National Credit Union Foundation's Development Education (DE) program shapes an appreciation for credit unions' unique member-ownership and its potential to impact the vitality of communities, economies, and nations. For young professionals it can be the eye-opener that seals a career with credit unions. Through the program, you will learn how to improve members' lives and your community through a philosophy immersion experience that will explore the principles shared by all cooperatives.
The Pat Wesenberg DE Scholarship honors the memory of Pat Wesenberg, former President of Simplicity Credit Union and longtime advocate of The Credit Union Movement who passed away in 2021. Pat began her career in The Movement in 1981 and was involved at both the state and national level for many years, including serving as board chair for America's Credit Unions and the National Credit Union Foundation. She was especially passionate about the National Credit Union Foundation's Development Educator program, having become a Development Educator herself in 2007 while also engaging with the European DE and African DE programs before earning her international DE designation (I-CUDE).
As a mentor, leader, inspiration, and friend to generations of credit union leaders, and because of her tireless enthusiasm for the DE program and its principles, this scholarship is named in her honor and aims to carry on her legacy to support future individuals on their path to becoming a Development Educator. DE scholarship applications are accepted March 15 through April 30 each year, and are awarded on the basis of need, the impact of the program on the credit union, and the applicant's involvement in and commitment to The Credit Union Movement. Recipients are notified by May 15.