Distinguished Director Award Winners

2024 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.