Distinguished Director Award Winners

Dr. Julia Cronin-Gilmore2023 Award Winner

Dr. Julia Cronin-Gilmore

Chairperson of the Board of Directors
Cobalt Credit Union

Papillion, Nebraska

Dr. Julia Cronin-Gilmore, a dedicated advocate for the credit union movement, has been instrumental in driving Cobalt Credit Union's growth and success during her 15-year tenure on the Board of Directors. Under her leadership, the credit union's assets have expanded exponentially from $400 million to over $1.2 billion.

Dr. Cronin-Gilmore is renowned for fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment among board members, executives, employees, and members. Her expertise in business, coupled with her commitment to the credit union philosophy of "People Helping People," has positioned her as a valuable asset to the organization.

Throughout her career, Dr. Cronin-Gilmore has made significant contributions to the credit union industry. She has served as a volunteer speaker at conferences, sharing her insights on topics such as strategy and change management. Additionally, she has consulted with credit union leaders on developing strong volunteer bases and CEO compensation.

Dr. Cronin-Gilmore's dedication to education and professional development is evident in her academic achievements and certifications. She holds a Ph.D. in business with a specialization in marketing, a master's in management, and a bachelor's in marketing. She has also earned numerous certifications, including the NAFCU Certified Volunteer Expert, Bank Secrecy Act certification, Supervisory Committee Certification, and Financial Literacy Certification.

Dr. Cronin-Gilmore's exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the credit union movement make her a prime candidate for the CUES Distinguished Director Award. Her contributions to Cobalt Credit Union have had a lasting impact on the organization and the industry as a whole.

2023 Winner Scott Burt

Scott Burt

Board Chair
Mountain America Credit Union

Sandy, Utah

Check out this Article on CU Management about Scott's accomplishments, and his Award Video.

2022 Winner John Sackett

John Sackett

Board Member
Royal Credit Union

Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Check out this Article on CU Management about John's accomplishments!

2021 Distinguished Director Winner Joan Nelson

Joan Nelson

Board Chair
Coastal Credit Union

Raleigh, North Carolina

Check out this Article on CU Management about Joan's accomplishments!

Linda Carver
Linda Carver, CCD

Board Chair
America First Credit Union

Ogden, UT

Watch her Award Video!

2019 Distinguished Director Winner Linda MedinaLinda Medina

Board Chair
Guadalupe Credit Union

Santa Fe, NM

Check out this Article on CU Management about  Linda's accomplishments!

2018 Distinguished Director Winner James SackettJames Sackett

Director
Firefly Credit Union

Burnsville, MN

Check out this Article on CU Management about Jame's accomplishments!

2017 Distinguished Director Award Winner J. Marvin HawkJ. Marvin Hawk, CCD

Board Chair
Fort Knox Federal Credit Union

Radcliff, KY

Check out this Article on CU Management about J. Marvin's accomplishments!

2016 Distinguished Director Award Winner Peter HaneltPeter Hanelt, CPA

Board Chair
Patelco Credit Union

Pleasanton, CA

Check out this Article on CU Management about Peter's accomplishments!

2015 Distinguished Director Winner Frank BrancaFrank Branca

Board Chair Director
Digital Federal Credit Union

Marlborough, MA

Check out this Article on CU Management about Frank's accomplishments!

2014 Distinguished Director Winner Howard WilliamsHoward Williams, CCD

Former Director
Fort Knox Federal Credit Union

Radcliff, KY

Check out this Article on CU Management about Howard's accomplishments!

2013 Distinguished Director Winner Ron SeamanRon Seaman

Board Chairman
SAFE Credit Union

North Highlands, CA

Check out this Article on CU Management about Ron's accomplishments!

2012 Distinguished Director Award Winner Marty GillisMartin D. Gillis, CCD

Chairman/Board
Windsor Family Credit Union

Windsor, Ontario, Canada

Check out this Article on CU Management about Martin's accomplishments!