The Kansas Credit Union Association celebrated 78 years of service and honored credit union leaders at its annual meeting and convention this month in Topeka.

Karen Hamit, president/CEO of the $65 million Credit Union of Dodge City, received the Henry Peterson Professional of the Year Award for her leadership within the Kansas credit union community.

Jim Peebler, supervisory committee chair for the $70 million TECU of Wichita, received the John Michener Volunteer of the Year award for his contributions and devotion as a volunteer to credit unions and the greater community, the league said.

In addition, Gary Winkler of the $274 million Quest CU in Topeka was recognized for his dedication and passion as a leader, advocate and mentor in the Kansas credit union movement. And Jane Hammil of the $522 million Credit Union of America in Wichita received the Political Involvement Award, recognizing her extraordinary effort and involvement in educating both state and national policymakers on the credit union difference.

“We are proud of the contributions our credit unions make to their communities every day and our (convention) theme was a way to illustrate the people helping people philosophy,” said Marla Marsh, KCUA's president/CEO. “One person can make a difference, but it's the collaboration and cooperative spirit of many that has changed the financial lives of millions of credit union members.”

At the association's business meeting, Don Homan of the $111 million Frontier Community CU in Leavenworth was elected to the volunteer seat on the KCUA Board of Directors.

KCUA board members continuing their terms include:

Chair: Jim Holt, president/CEO of the $208 million Mid American CU in Wichita,
Vice Chair: Don Homan of the $111 million Frontier Community CU in Leavenworth,
Secretary/Treasurer: Vickie Hurt, president/CEO of the $274 million Quest CU in Topeka,
Rick Blue, president/CEO of the $86 million White Eagle CU in Augusta,
Denise Bonner, manager of the $3.5 million Wakarusa Valley CU in Lawrence,
Larry Damm, president/CEO of the $233 million Cessna Employees CU in Wichita,
Rosa Saenz, senior vice president of the $410 million Golden Plains CU in Garden City, and,
Garth Strand, president/CEO of the $206 million Hutchinson CU in Hutchinson.

Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback attended the KCUA convention, which also featured notable speakers including Lt. Col. Rob Darling who recounted his first-hand experience witnessing crisis leadership in response to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and John Tippets, who shared an inspirational story of survival in Alaska.

Instant Insights /

Kansas Credit Union Association Marks 78 Years, Honors Leaders

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