"For more than 10 years, GWLN has known that bridging the gaps in society requires cooperatives to unite around the world," Mitchell said. "I thank Brian Branch, president/CEO of World Council of Credit Unions, for asking me in 2009 to become the chair to help World Council build GWLN by working with volunteers worldwide. I am very proud of the work we have done and what we have created. There is no better time to strengthen our path forward."

GWLN's mission is to provide women with opportunities to make a measurable difference in their lives, their credit unions and their communities.

Susan Mitchell

Under Mitchell's leadership, some of GWLN's achievements have included establishing 130 local Sister Societies on six continents with the participation of more than 4,500 women and men from 85 countries; provided empowerment grants that launched business development centers in Asia and entrepreneurial enterprises in North Macedonia; fed families in Kenya and delivered financial counseling for pregnant high school girls wanting to graduate and apply for college in the United States.

"We thank Sue for her passion and commitment that has made a difference in the lives of thousands of credit union women around the world," Branch said. "We are grateful that Sue continues to serve with the Worldwide Foundation Board and World Council initiatives."

Branch, who introduced Freeborn as the new GWLN chair, said she has been a major leader in the global organization, and her support has been one of the strongest in the community.

"I can tell you there have been many times when those of us at the World Council have turned to Teresa and asked her to help articulate the challenges that we face as a movement in addressing the obstacles that women face," he said. "Her contributions have been in strategic development of the network and, in public forums, she has provided mentoring and training for international colleagues, and she has shared her passion for the work you do in your local communities and in international forums."

Freeborn said she is very excited about serving as GWLN chair.

"To all of the women who belong to the Global Women's Leadership Network, I promise not to let you down," Freeborn said. "We have so much to do, but I think together we can really continue the good work of events in your leadership roles throughout the world. So, thank you for your trust in me."