Montana’s Credit Unions (MCU) recently announced seven award recipients for their credit union awards from 2020 and 2021 during their annual Power Up Conference & Expo, May 20, 2021. These awards recognized credit union ambassadors throughout the state who have advanced the credit union movement in Montana.
The Professional of the Year Award was awarded to Bernie Neibauer, president and CEO of Russell Country Federal Credit Union, for 2020, and Leslie Womack, president and CEO of President/CEO, Montana Educators’ Credit Union for 2021. This award was designed to honor certain individuals whose work and dedication stand out in Montana's credit union landscape. Both recipients have dedicated nearly four decades serving within the industry.
The Volunteer of the Year Award was given to Pete Stiles, board chair at Vocal Credit Union, for 2020, and Harvey Urdahl, former board chairman at Daniels-Sheridan Federal Credit Union for 2021. This award recognizes one individual each year for their outstanding volunteerism in the credit union arena.
The Young Professional of the Year Award was awarded to Laci Rose, CFO of Ravalli County Credit Union, for 2020, and Kelsey Wegley, real estate loan processor assistant at Horizon Credit Union for 2021. Rose and Wegley were the first two recipients of this newfound award. This award was designed to celebrate the go-getters and young leaders within the credit union industry who are transforming the future of the credit union experience for future generations.
The Philosophy in Action Award recipient was Noreen Cady, business development and community outreach coordinator at Park Side Credit Union. This MCU award recognizes one individual for their outstanding commitment to exemplifying the credit union philosophy in all that they do.
“Each of these honorees are committed to bettering the communities they serve and advancing the credit union industry,” said Tracie Kenyon, president and CEO of MCU. “It is a pleasure to work alongside and learn from passionate advocates who fully embody the credit union philosophy of ‘People Helping People’ in all that they do. We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to recognize them for their support and want to reiterate our sincere thanks for their efforts.”