Press

The Illinois Credit Union League hosts its 91st annual convention in Chicago

NAPERVILLE, IL (November 4, 2021) — The Illinois Credit Union League’s 91^st Annual Convention: A Roaring Good Time Redux drew over 500 attendees to Chicago this October 28-30, 2021. After a hiatus in 2020, the convention returned this year featuring a full in-person experience along with a virtual attendance option.

During the event, credit union professionals gathered in-person for collaborative networking and inspiration to advance the “people helping people” mission of the credit union movement. Education sessions supported credit union efforts to serve the changing needs of their communities, equip leaders, thrive in an uncertain financial landscape, and harness the latest in innovative financial technology to enhance member service.

The Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) was excited to have Dan Hampton, retired Hall of Fame football player and co-host of the weekly “Hamp and O’B” Bears radio show, “kick off” the convention as opening speaker. Breakthrough Strategist Simon T. Bailey inspired attendees at the Celebration Luncheon to “Be the SPARK” that strengthens relationships between credit unions and members. ICUL was also honored to help LSC introduce its rebrand and name change to “Envisant” during the Celebration Luncheon. The video announcement can be viewed here.

Productive meetings and fun activities, including a mascot parade to raise money for a variety of charities, also kept attendees engaged and entertained. Breakout sessions contributed additional insights on the current economic landscape and credit union culture.

“I’m thrilled the League was able to provide our industry colleagues the opportunity to connect in-person this year,” said Tom Kane, President and CEO of the Illinois Credit Union System. “While we’ve kept engaged during the pandemic, returning to Chicago for our annual convention felt like a reunion. I could feel the enthusiasm of people at the event and I enjoyed seeing so many familiar faces in person.”

The League also announced the winners of its Annual Credit Union Awards during the convention. Three people were inducted into the Hall of Fame for their contributions as credit union leaders including: Steve Olson (former Principle Legal Advisor at ICUL and founder of Olson Government Consulting, LLC); Ann Dubie (former President/CEO of Numark CU); Mark Spenny (former President/CEO of CEFCU). Ted Klasner, former Chairman of the Board for 1^st MidAmerica CU, was also honored with ICUL’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Spirit of Service Award winners recognized include Jasmine Taylor-Newton of Great Lakes Credit Union (Employee of the Year) and Winifred French of Shiloh Englewood FCU (Volunteer of the Year). Clay Dunker of MEA CU received the Small Credit Union Award for his work promoting the credit union movement.

About Illinois Credit Union League (IUCL)

The Illinois Credit Union League is the primary trade association for more than 200 state and federal credit unions in Illinois. It focuses on providing legislative and regulatory advocacy, compliance assistance and information, and a wide range of educational and training services to those credit unions, who serve about 3.4 million members. More information can be found at www.icul.com.