Iowa Credit Union Movement Celebrates 100 Years During Iowa Credit Union Convention

More than 550 credit union leaders, board members, young professionals, and industry partners gathered in Dubuque September 17–19 for the Iowa Credit Union Convention. This year’s event carried special significance as it honored the 100th anniversary of credit unions in Iowa. The convention featured educational sessions designed to equip credit unions with insights and tools to strengthen the financial well-being of Iowans and prepare for the future of the movement.
 
During the 2025 Iowa Credit Union League (ICUL) Annual Meeting, Iowa Credit Union Awards were presented to outstanding individuals for their leadership, innovation and service.

• Julie Pingel of Fort Dodge Family Credit Union received the Cooperative Spirit Professional Award in acknowledgement of her outstanding service and advocacy for the success of the credit union movement.
• Kevin Bahrenfuss (Peoples Credit Union) and Bev Bierma (Financial Plus Credit Union) were honored with the Cooperative Spirit Volunteer Awards, highlighting the vital role credit union board members play within the credit union system.
• Jack Schumacher of Aim Credit Union was presented with the Heritage Award, which recognizes lifetime achievements of those who have shown outstanding service, commitment and leadership throughout their career.
• Myranda Reasoner of MEMBERS1st Community Credit Union received the Young Professional Award. This award recognizes that the future of credit unions lies in the hands of young professionals and highlights emerging leaders who are making a difference in their credit union and community.
• Rebecca Neades of GreenState Credit Union was given the ICUL Champion of the Year Award to acknowledge the dedication she has for credit union advocacy within her credit union and the broader movement.

 
“The Iowa Credit Union Awards recognize leaders who embody the very best of our movement,” says Murray Williams, ICUL President and CEO. “Their leadership, passion and innovation demonstrate how much can be accomplished when we work together in service to others. In this centennial year for Iowa credit unions, their achievements remind us why our movement has endured for 100 years.”
 
During the annual meeting, ICUL board members were sworn in to serve as strategic leaders for Iowa’s credit unions.

• Renee Christoffer, Veridian Credit Union
• Greg Hanshaw, Community 1st Credit Union
• Jeff Hayes, North Star Community Credit Union
• Jordan Hensley, Peoples Credit Union
• Dave Klavitter, Dupaco Community Credit Union
• Brad Mertens, Metco Credit Union
• Mike Moroney, AIM Credit Union
• John Parks, Sioux Valley Community Credit Union
• Mark Peters, Employees Credit Union
• Julie Pingel, Fort Dodge Family Credit Union
• Jami Weems, Serve Credit Union