2025 CU Times Luminaries Finalists: Rising Star – Credit Union

Louise Cogan-Rupani – Municipal Credit Union

Louise Cogan-Rupani has been a transformative force at MCU, rising from a marketing assistant to leading the newly established Strategic Enablement division. She has revolutionized how MCU operates – streamlining processes, increasing efficiency and enabling staff to focus on higher-value work. She also led the successful launch of MCU’s Digital Storefront, and as MCU’s lead in fintech exploration and its representative in the Filene Innovation Lab, she is pushing MCU toward smarter, tech-driven solutions that benefit both members and employees.

Joanna Bradley – Suncoast Credit Union

Under Vice President of Consumer Lending Joanna Bradley’s leadership, Suncoast’s consumer loan portfolio saw double-digit growth and a 94% year-over-year increase in loan origination balances as of June 30. Her fintech partnerships and focus on member-centric strategies have positioned Suncoast as an industry leader. She stands out not only for her technical expertise but also for her emotional intelligence, humility and commitment to service. A continuous learner and advocate for ethical fintech, she mentors talent and champions inclusive design. Bradley’s dedication is helping define the future of credit unions: Innovative, inclusive and purpose driven.

Lindsey LeWinter – FAIRWINDS Credit Union

From her start in the branch and move to an intern, to now overseeing all human resources, talent acquisition, total reward and well-being programs, and talent development for FAIRWINDS, Lindsey LeWinter works tirelessly to ensure every crewmember has resources to help them achieve financial freedom and opportunities to grow within the company. With FAIRWINDS’ mission to change members’ and crewmembers’ lives on the journey to Financial Freedom at the forefront, she continues to bring forward new opportunities to invest in the financial wellness of crewmembers.

Stephanie Curtis – VyStar Credit Union

Over the past year, Senior Vice President & Chief Member Experience Officer Stephanie Curtis has led initiatives that resulted in a 20–30% reduction in fraud losses, the successful launch of six new branches, and the development of innovative member products like VyStar Plus Checking and a high-yield CD promotion. Her leadership also brought in over $100 million in new deposits, and her launch of the “SnapComms” internal messaging platform has enhanced communication and employee engagement across the organization. Known for her collaborative spirit, ethical leadership and strategic mindset, Curtis consistently prioritizes what’s best for VyStar’s members and the broader community.

Amber Merrill – Gesa Credit Union

As Community Relations Manager at Gesa Credit Union, Amber Merrill she has redefined how financial institutions can engage and uplift the communities they serve. What began for her as a high school internship through Gesa’s HSCU program has grown into a career of lasting impact, with 2024 marking Gesa’s most impactful, community-focused year yet. Merrill’s efforts helped drive $4.9 million in total community giveback, facilitated over 6,000 employee volunteer hours and launched new partnerships. Her stewardship of Gesa’s Local Heroes Grant Program has resulted in over $1.78 million being granted to frontline-serving organizations.

Aaron Campbell – UW Credit Union

As one of the first members of UWCU’s Business and Specialized Services team, Aaron Campbell advocated for a new process of serving business members remotely with exceptional efficiency. His enthusiastic embrace of new technology mitigated the risks associated with highly complicated deposit products, nearly eliminating the organization’s error rate on specialized deposit products and services. What’s more, in addition to coordinating annual preparations for the state’s Government Affairs Conference, Campbell organizes UWCU’s advocacy efforts in both Madison and Washington, D.C. He excels at bringing people together over shared goals, strengthening internal collaboration and external partnerships.

Abdul Hussain – Delta Community Credit Union

Vice President of Information Security and Chief Information Security Officer Abdul Hussain safeguards the digital infrastructures of Georgia’s largest credit union. He led the successful implementation of a robust Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) platform, improving enterprise cyber risk management and business continuity across the credit union. A passionate advocate for education, DEI and community engagement, he regularly delivers workshops on cybersecurity, fraud prevention and identity theft. With a rare combination of technical mastery, strategic foresight and values-driven leadership, Hussain is setting new standards for how credit unions operate and serve their members in the digital age.

Nathan Turner – Northwest Federal Credit Union

In the past year, SVP of Marketing Nate Turner led NWFCU to become the first credit union in history to secure NFL stadium naming rights, a transformative moment that launched Northwest Stadium into the national spotlight. Under Turner’s leadership, this campaign delivered more than 747 million impressions, $8.4 million in media value and drove over 8,000 new members. But what makes his work stand out is how he fused national visibility with local impact. In parallel, Turner restructured NWFCU’s marketing team, built scalable campaign frameworks, and championed inclusive messaging and mission-driven storytelling.

Cynthia Ojeda – SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union
Cynthia Ojeda, Senior Fraud Investigator, has become a respected service leader, forging trusted relationships with industry professionals and government agencies alike. Her advocacy spans across populations – from minors and youth to adults and the elderly – reflecting her genuine care, empathy and desire to protect vulnerable individuals. What truly sets her apart is her ability to take on complex, high-impact projects and deliver measurable results. She thrives when leading with purpose and creating lasting change. Her most valued contributions are not only in her accomplishments, but in the way she empowers colleagues, uplifts her community and shares knowledge to drive collective progress.

Rising Star – Credit Union ($1B-$4B)

Emily Wolfington – Elements Financial Credit Union

Emily Wolfington, SVP of Human Resources & Talent Management at Elements Financial, has delivered measurable, organization-wide impact through her strategic leadership in talent development, DEIB, compensation and community engagement. She has championed the growth of Employee Resource Groups and helped shape the Community Impact Roadmap. Her work aligns with research showing that inclusive workplaces like hers yield higher ROA and net income. Wolfington is a collaborative, data-driven leader who embodies integrity and inclusivity. Her efforts have not only advanced opportunities for women but also elevated the organization’s culture and performance.

Cassie Kraft – Great Lakes Credit Union

With more than 12 years of dedicated service at Great Lakes Credit Union spanning roles in retail, information systems, and now as the VP of the Project and Product team, Cassie Kraft has consistently demonstrated her commitment, expertise and drive to move the organization forward. Her ability to build cross-functional alignment and execute with precision has elevated GLCU’s capacity for change. With her strategic mindset and dedication to excellence, Kraft has become an indispensable leader, leading her team with a collaborative, trust-based leadership style. Through it all, she has managed complexity with calm, supported her team with integrity and led with humility, making her a standout in our industry.

Emelda Baca – Arizona Financial Credit Union

As an emerging leader in the credit union movement, Emelda Baca, SVP Consumer Lending, exemplifies the spirit of innovation, inclusivity and forward-thinking leadership. With a strong commitment to expanding financial access, Emelda has championed initiatives that span the full credit spectrum – introducing cutting-edge solutions like Buy Now, Pay Later programs, AI-powered underwriting and products designed to uplift underserved communities. Baca’s passion for member impact and continuous growth marks them as a standout among the next generation of credit union professionals.

Garick Giroir – OnPath Credit Union

Creative Marketing Manager Garick Giroir led the rebranding of OnPath: Designing the new logo, building the brand system and launching it across branches, digital platforms and marketing channels. Beyond his creative skill, Giroir is a thoughtful employee and a steady, collaborative teammate. He leads with empathy and sets the tone for a culture of clarity, curiosity and accountability. He’s someone who sees the bigger picture, asks smart questions and brings out the best in those around him.

Taylor Meyers – OnPath Credit Union

Community Engagement Specialist Taylor Meyers is more than just a standout employee, she is a force for good within the organization and the community it serves. Over the past two years, she has been the heart behind OnPath’s community engagement efforts, bringing empathy, passion and unwavering commitment to every initiative she touches. With a deep sense of integrity and an eye for innovation, she quickly mastered the complexities of the credit union space, always asking, “How can we do more for our members?” Because of Meyers, OnPath’s outreach is more impactful, its mission more visible and its connection to community stronger than ever.

Dania Angeles – FirstLight Federal Credit Union

Since joining FirstLight FCU over a year ago, Dania Angeles has emerged as a transformative leader, first overseeing the Community Impact department and now overseeing both Community Impact and Marketing. Among her most impactful achievements is the launch of FirstLight’s HomeMatch Program, a one to five matched savings initiative supporting first-time homebuyers from low- to moderate-income households. This program not only addresses critical housing needs but also promotes long-term financial stability. Angeles also led the distribution of scholarships, placed an increased focus on community impact by expanding financial education efforts, and fueled successful fundraising. Her work exemplifies the mission of credit unions, ensuring we are uplifting communities through access, education and opportunity.

David Feliciano – Gulf Winds Credit Union

David Feliciano, Marketing Director at Gulf Winds Credit Union, is helping redefine what modern credit union marketing can look like with an approach that’s grounded in community, driven by strategy and built for long-term relevance. Over the past year he has maintained a strong connection with the working-class communities the credit union serves across the Gulf Coast. Feliciano champions a culture of experimentation, empowering his team to test, learn and adapt while remaining focused on purposeful storytelling and real member value. What sets him apart is his ability to integrate marketing and mission. For him, giving back isn’t separate from brand – it is the brand.

Esmeralda Rodriguez – Addition Financial Credit Union

As a key leader in the Contact Center, Esmeralda (Essy) Rodriguez brings energy, empathy and execution to every challenge she tackles. Her ability to nurture talent has led to the advancement of multiple team members into leadership roles – a testament to her authentic investment in others’ growth. In the past year alone, she was instrumental in the credit union’s 2024 digital banking overhaul, and more recently, she collaborated across departments to implement Zelle. Rodriguez is not only a strategic thinker but a passionate advocate for members and a catalyst for innovation. Her cross-functional contributions, mentorship mindset and relentless drive to challenge the status quo exemplify the future of credit union leadership.

Ann Ditlow – 4Front Credit Union

Over the past year, Finance and Analytics Manager Ann Ditlow has delivered measurable impact across finance, education and advocacy. She led the team that redesigned 4Front’s branch profitability model to better reflect operational realities across 20 locations, preserving financial clarity and enabling goal alignment. Her leadership also protected $150,000 in asset value by advocating for a servicing rights reevaluation prior to sale. Beyond her financial expertise, Ditlow co-founded her credit union’s internal advocacy committee, developed educational resources and recorded a podcast to strengthen employee engagement. With vision, humility and impact, Ditlow exemplifies the next generation of cooperative leadership.

Jonathan Meeks – Wellby Financial

Jonathan Meeks, VP of Business Development, is recognized for his exceptional leadership in advancing community impact within the Greater Houston area. Under his guidance, Wellby Financial hosted over 545 community engagement events and 218 financial literacy workshops in 2024, significantly surpassing targets and broadening the credit union’s reach. His strategic partnership development with local organizations has been instrumental in fostering financial wellness across diverse populations. Committed to internal growth, Jonathan led the creation of the Financial Wellness Educator role and bolstered the team’s bilingual capabilities by recruiting top talent. His forward-thinking approach to community engagement and inclusive programming positions Wellby Financial as a standout leader in the credit union movement.

Rising Star – Credit Union ($1B & Below)

Kurtis Kelly – Canopy Credit Union

As Director of Marketing and Community Development, Kurtis Kelly drives initiatives that prioritize authenticity, access and long-term community impact. One of his most notable accomplishments is the growth of Canopy’s free financial coaching program. Kelly leads with authenticity, ensuring Canopy’s marketing exclusively features real members and their financial journeys, reinforcing the credit union’s identity as a trusted community partner. He also presented at the 2025 Small Credit Union Conference, sharing how Canopy builds member loyalty through strategic community partnerships, and teaches marketing at Whitworth University. Through community leadership, strategic storytelling and a heart for service, Kelly is not just advancing a credit union – he’s helping build a more inclusive and financially empowered Inland Northwest.

Spencer Shanholtzer – Canopy Credit Union
As Director of HR & Culture, Spencer Shanholtzer is known for his commitment to member and employee experiences. He created Canopy’s internal leadership program, Link to Leadership, which has graduated four cohorts and helped equip staff with the tools and confidence to lead with purpose. Shanholtzer’s impact can be felt in the organization’s culture, retention and employee development. His leadership style, affectionately known as “getting the deep dish,” encourages others to bring intentionality, depth and care to their daily work. Outside of Canopy, he is deeply invested in the Spokane, Wash., community. Shanholtzer’s work proves that when you uplift your people, you also uplift organizations and communities they serve.

Emilio Abeyta Jr. – Affidian Credit Union

Emilio Abeyta Jr. started at the credit union in February 2023 as a Teller. After three months, he obtained the position of Collection Specialist. After several months he was promoted to Collections Supervisor. In May 2024, he became the Branch Manager at Lone Tree, Colo., in addition to being the Collections Supervisor. The past year has been a time for growth for Abeyta. He has learned invaluable lessons about leadership, patience, communication and the power of a positive attitude. He strives to be the kind of leader who uplifts others and creates a culture of excellence. He loves the opportunity to inspire others. He makes it a priority to be approachable and takes pride in helping team members grow.

Adam Padilla – Affidian Credit Union

Adam Padilla has faced and overcome numerous challenges, each one strengthening his leadership skills and deepening his commitment to personal and professional growth. He has worked diligently to create a culture where team members feel supported and empowered, and where members feel valued and safe. His work ethic and dedication have helped cultivate a workplace where both employees and members know they will be heard, respected and cared for. Padilla began his career as a Teller with the long-term goal of one day becoming a Branch
Manager. With this milestone achieved and his commitment for continuous learning and dedication, he is now setting his sights on a new aspiration: Becoming the CEO of Affidian.

Lauren Walker – Members Choice Credit Union

With a sharp eye for operational resilience and emerging trends, and a deep commitment to member centricity, Vice President of Enterprise Risk Management Lauren Walker has helped reevaluate how risk is managed and monitored in a forward-looking credit union. She led with distinction as she guided the MCCU management team through a cybersecurity tabletop exercise. Coupled with insightful lessons learned briefings, she exemplified the qualities of a modern risk professional, strategic and innovative with a keen focus on compliance. She also plays a pivotal role in strengthening the MCCU’s audit program and regulatory examination process. Her ability to bridge compliance and innovation sets her apart as a forward-thinking leader.

Lindsey Powell – Financial Center First Credit Union

As the Branch Manager of Financial Center’s Kokomo, Ind., location, Lindsey Powell has ignited community connection and financial empowerment since day one. In just the past year, she’s led her team to generate more than $700,000 in lending in a single month, and exceeded deposit and checking account goals – all while navigating economic headwinds. She’s also facilitated more than 20 financial wellness classes; counseled veterans, survivors and individuals in recovery; and serves on multiple local advisory boards. Powell’s authentic leadership, relentless outreach and belief in inclusive banking have turned a branch into a trusted community cornerstone.

Nathan Cape – Minnequa Works Credit Union

As one of the youngest CEOs in the credit union industry, Nathan Cape is redefining what it means to be a modern cooperative leader. At the helm of Minnequa Works CU in Southern Colorado, Cape has led transformative growth, expanding from three to five branches, increasing membership and launching inclusive financial products like the BankOn-certified Overtime Checking account. He’s driven internal efficiencies, improving loan turnaround time, and helped create 12 new jobs tied to community outreach, member engagement and lending. With a clear vision for the future of cooperative finance, Cape a catalyst for impact, access and long-term member value.

Maddison Gleim – Members Choice Credit Union

At just 23 years old, Maddison Gleim is making a meaningful impact in the credit union industry. As the Head of Marketing and Brand Ambassador at Members Choice, she has helped lead a fresh, community-first approach that’s strengthened member engagement, elevated the credit union’s digital presence and sparked growth across all age groups. Her creative strategies and passion for people have helped deepen connections both online and in-branch, supporting the credit union’s mission of putting members first. Gleim is also deeply involved in her community, always looking for new ways to give back and support others. With her warm personality, innovative spirit and heart for service, she is a true example of the next generation of credit union leadership.

Katelynn Rowe – Signet Federal Credit Union

Katelynn Rowe didn’t just step into her role as Director of Marketing and Communications at Signet, she completely transformed it. In her first year, she transitioned the credit union from a full-service third-party marketing agency to a one-person, in-house marketing department – and delivered better results than ever before. She also launched Signet Showdown, a first-of-its-kind event that bridges industry and education, all while celebrating the credit union’s legacy. Her campaigns have helped the credit union generate a $16.8 million (6%) increase in shares and elevated Signet’s role as a community connector.

Sarah Greenberg – San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union

Sarah Greenberg is a standout leader in the credit union industry throughout the Tampa Bay area. With a background in hospitality, she brings a high standard of service excellence to both the credit union’s members and the communities it serves. In her current role overseeing all four branches of San Antonio Citizens FCU, Greenburg leads with integrity, passion and a commitment to personal and professional growth. Her leadership inspires team members to strive for excellence and embrace their full potential.