Legends of The Movement

Carol Adler

Retired President, Past League Board Chair, Past Foundation Board Chair 
Marshfield Medical Center Credit Union

Carol Adler's career in the credit union industry spans an impressive 45 years, beginning in 1976 at Central Catholic Credit Union (now Simplicity Credit Union) and transitioning to Marshfield Medical Center Credit Union (MMCCU) in 1985.

Carol attended UW Marshfield/Wood Co. and UW Madison, initially pursuing journalism before shifting her focus to business administration.

Her entry into the credit union world came through a chance opportunity at Central Catholic Credit Union, where she was hired as a part-time teller. Her first day set the tone for her career; she was quickly thrust into the thick of operations, balancing books, and learning the ropes of credit union management. Over nine years, she developed a deep understanding of the industry, leading to her hiring as President/CEO of MMCCU in 1985.

Carol witnessed and contributed to significant changes in the credit union landscape. When she started, there were 17 credit unions in the Marshfield, Wisconsin Rapids, and Stevens Point areas, with over 100 attendees at chapter meetings. Today, that number has dwindled to around six or seven due to mergers and consolidations. Statewide, Wisconsin's credit unions have decreased from over 500 in the late 70s to nearly 100 today.

During her tenure, Carol saw a dramatic evolution in technology, transitioning from hand-posting accounts to fully automated data processing systems. She also navigated the ever-changing regulatory environment, ensuring MMCCU remained compliant and competitive.

Carol's leadership extended beyond MMCCU. She attended numerous meetings and conferences, including at least 15 trips to Washington D.C. for government affairs meetings and many more at the state level in Madison. Her dedication to The Credit Union Movement is evident in her service on various committees, councils, and boards, including The Wisconsin Credit Union League and The Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation, where she served nine years on each and rose to Chair of both entities.

Under her leadership, MMCCU grew from $2 million to $71 million in assets, with reserves increasing from $115,000 to just under $6 million. She looks forward to a future where the community and the nation overcome current challenges and continue to thrive.

Carol Adler's career is a testament to her commitment to the credit union industry and her community. Her leadership, dedication, and passion have left an indelible mark on MMCCU and the broader Credit Union Movement.

Mary Bliss

Retired EVP/COO
Wisconsin Credit Union League  

Mary Bliss dedicated her entire career to the success of credit unions throughout the state of Wisconsin. During her 40+ years of service to The Wisconsin Credit Union League, Mary was instrumental in the development of The Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation and worked tirelessly to promote and fundraise for its programs, scholarships, grants, and financial literacy initiatives.

In her years with The League, Mary was found working closely with small credit unions by assisting with strategic planning and operational assistance. During her tenure, she helped with the creation of several small credit unions in the state which were dedicated to providing financial services to under-represented groups. Whether or not she was aware of it, she was also a mentor to many staff members over the years by instilling the credit union philosophy in them and sharing her experience as a CUDE.

Eric Chrisinger

Retired President/CEO 
Co-op Credit Union

For 43 years, Eric Chrisinger, 2008-2024 President/CEO of Co-op Credit Union (CCU), has served members throughout West Central Wisconsin all while demonstrating The Credit Union Difference. 

In 1981, Eric was hired as the Melrose Branch Manager and Loan Officer when the Melrose Credit Union merged with CCU. Since then, Eric has played a crucial role in the development of CCU’s field of membership with the merging of nine different credit unions – Strum Credit Union, Melrose Credit Union, Fall Creek Credit Union, Galesville Credit Union, Augusta Credit Union, Partners Credit Union, Blair Credit Union, Fairchild Credit Union, and La Crosse Postal Credit Union.

Throughout his career at CCU, he has led the lending area and served as Executive Vice President before being named President/CEO in 2008. Under his leadership and alongside his dedicated team, CCU has experienced tremendous growth with over 22,000 members, over $500 million in total assets and 100 employees.

“When I first started at CCU, I was one of 10 employees”, said Eric. “I’m proud that today we are considered an employer of choice in our communities. We’ve worked hard to build a culture that supports and encourages employees in all stages of their development.”

Eric has spent his career living out the cooperative principles within the communities the credit union serves. From economic development to mentoring those new to the credit union movement, he has led with integrity and empathy. The needs of the members, community and the CCU team are always first and foremost. His commitment to go above and beyond has been handed down to all of CCU’s employees.
 
Eric has served both the community and credit union industry in many ways over his career, including the Corporate Central Credit Union Board, Black River Falls Area Foundation, League Governmental Affairs Committee, and the Jackson County Housing Commission. 

In retirement, Eric remains committed to The Credit Union Movement as CCU Ambassador where he continues to promote Co-op Credit Union and their mission of serving their members where they are, through all stages of life.

Charles M. Grossklaus

Retired President/CEO 
Royal Credit Union  

Charles (Charlie) M. Grossklaus joined Royal Credit Union in 1971 and held the role of Chief Executive Officer from 1984 until his retirement in January 2012. At the time, he was the second CEO to lead the credit union since it was founded in the Uniroyal Tire Plant in 1964. 

In his over 40 years of service, Charlie left a lasting impact on The Credit Union Movement in Wisconsin and beyond through his leadership and commitment to putting members first. When Charlie was named Royal’s CEO, the credit union had $100 million in assets, 100 employees, and 6 branches. His vision to grow Royal to a $1 Billion credit union was realized in 2010 through the purchase of 11 AnchorBank offices. At the time of his retirement, Royal had 582 employees, 25 branches, and served 18 counties in Wisconsin and 12 counties in Minnesota. 

Charlie’s impact on The Credit Union Movement extends far beyond Royal. Charlie served credit unions in state and national capacities including director and board chair of The Wisconsin Credit Union League, board member of the Credit Union Council for the National Association of State Credit Union Supervisors, member of the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) Government Affairs Committee, appointee to the Filene Research Institute’s Council, and member of the Wisconsin TYME and later PULSE/Discover board. He was inducted into the Credit Union House Hall of Leaders in 2012. 

As a devoted community leader, Charlie served as chairman of several non-profit organizations, including the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce and the local United Way. He also served on committees and boards for the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Chippewa Valley Technical College, Downtown Eau Claire Inc., Eau Claire Community Foundation, Children’s Museum of Eau Claire, and the local YMCA. During his credit union service, Charlie received many honors and awards including the Luther Hospital Good Samaritan Award, the Chippewa Valley Technical College Award of Excellence, the State of Wisconsin Vocational Association Award, the Eau Claire DECA Businessman of the Year Award, and the University of Wisconsin Alumni Association President’s Award. 

Under Charlie's leadership, the credit union received the Paragon Award from the Eau Claire Area Economic Development Corporation for being a "Model of Excellence" in the economic development of the communities the credit union serves. In addition, Royal received the Community Development Award from the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce for significant contributions to the economy of the Chippewa Valley. 

The list of Charlie’s activities and awards is impressive and was achieved through an unwavering commitment to strengthening The Credit Union Movement and making a difference in the lives of others. That commitment is woven into the culture of Royal and his impact continues to benefit our credit union, our community and the state of Wisconsin.

Mary Lueneburg

Board Chairperson 
Educators Credit Union 

For several decades, Mary Lueneburg has been the epitome of dedication and leadership within Educators Credit Union. Her unwavering commitment, coupled with her deep-rooted belief in the philosophy of “people helping people,” has propelled her to legendary status within the credit union community.

As a longstanding member of the board and serving as its chair for many years, Mary has been instrumental in helping shape Educator’s mission and values while also championing the cause of financial literacy and community support. At the heart of Mary’s influence lies her profound understanding of The Credit Union Movement. She comprehends its origin, its principles, and its significance in fostering economic empowerment and community development.

Mary recognizes that credit unions are not merely financial institutions, but cooperative entities driven by the ethos of mutual assistance and shared prosperity. This understanding fuels her passion for advocating on behalf of Educators and the broader Credit Union Movement. Mary’s leadership is characterized by her genuine concern for others and her relentless pursuit of their well-being. She leads by example, demonstrating a tireless commitment to serving members and communities alike. Her advocacy for financial literacy underscores her belief that empowerment begins with education: by equipping members with the knowledge and skills to make sound financial decisions.

Mary’s advocacy extends beyond the confines of Educators. She actively supports initiatives that promote the credit union philosophy and its values. Whether is lobbying for favorable legislation or participating in community outreach programs. She is a tireless ambassador for The Credit Union Movement. Mary’s legacy is not merely defined by her tenure or accomplishments but by the lives she has touched and the communities she has enriched. 

Through her leadership, she has inspired countless individuals to embrace the values of cooperation, compassion, and empowerment. She has instilled a sense of purpose and belonging within Educators, fostering a culture where members are not customers but partners in a shared journey towards financial well-being. 

In conclusion, Mary Lueneburg stands as a legend in The Credit Union Movement, a beacon of integrity, compassion, and dedication. Her leadership exemplifies the very essence of “people helping people” as she advocates for the interests of members, communities, and financial literacy. Her legacy will endure a testament to the transformative power of servant leadership driven by commitment and passion for helping others.

Dave Maves

Past Board Chairperson
 WESTconsin Credit Union  

In July 2020, the credit union community lost a cherished leader with the passing of Dave Maves, former Chairman of the Board of WESTconsin Credit Union. Dave Maves was not just a chairman; he was a passionate advocate for the positive impact credit unions can have on individuals and their local communities. He truly believed in "people helping people" and it was evident in every aspect of his leadership. Dave's dedication extended beyond the operational aspects of WESTconsin Credit Union. He genuinely cared about the employees, recognizing their vital role in fulfilling the credit union's mission.

Dave would make a point of stopping by any of the WESTconsin offices when he traveled, often asking his wife if they could leave earlier than expected so he had enough time to not only stop by the office but to have enough time to connect with the employees. He not only knew the employees, but he seemed to have a magical way of remembering their families and asking how they were. He made sure members and employees always felt welcome and heard in his presence. Under Dave's leadership, WESTconsin Credit Union grew and evolved into a strong financial institution that is known for supporting members, communities, and employees.

Mark Schroeder

Retired President/CEO 
Corporate Central Credit Union

Mark Schroeder made an incredible contribution to The Movement and Wisconsin credit unions during his 21 years of leadership at Corporate Central Credit Union, before retiring in 2004. When Mark began his career at Corporate Central in 1983, the Wisconsin credit union landscape was remarkably different. Most credit unions relied on banks for services such as checking, check processing, coin and currency needs, payment services, etc. Mark led an incredibly innovative shift, turning Corporate Central into the primary financial institution for most Wisconsin credit unions.

Under Mark’s leadership, Corporate Central developed the products and services Wisconsin credit unions now rely on to help them serve their members. This enabled Wisconsin credit unions to break away from reliance on banks that were overcharging and underpaying, while competing with them in the marketplace. Credit unions were able to move those services to “their credit union,” Corporate Central, along with the settlement dollars and earn real dividends. This also enabled Corporate Central to grow and become the primary liquidity provider for Wisconsin credit unions.

By serving on the board of several national associations and organizations, Mark was able to provide the influence needed to ensure Wisconsin credit unions were on the forefront of innovative products and services. This enabled Corporate Central, and Wisconsin credit unions, to be some of the first institutions in the nation to offer ACH services to members.

Mark was also very involved in many local credit union movement initiatives and organizations; including helping to fund the formation of The Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation. By fostering a culture of excellence and practicing “servant” leadership,” Mark attracted strong talent and built a corporate credit union that successfully weathered many challenging economic cycles to become a reliable, trusted partner to Wisconsin credit unions and beyond.

One of Mark’s favorite questions to ask whenever a decision was to be made was, “Is this in the best interest of our members?” A true credit union champion through and through, Mark lived and breathed the “people helping people” principle.

Kim Sponem

CEO/President
Summit Credit Union  

The Credit Union Movement in Wisconsin is stronger and more inspiring because of the leadership of Kim Sponem, CEO and President of Summit Credit Union. Believing the growth of credit unions increases our opportunities to create more financial wellness for individuals, families and communities, she led the credit union’s growth from $200 million in assets serving 44,000 members in 2002 to $7 billion in assets serving more than 275,000 members by early 2024. When Kim became CEO/President in 2002 (then CUNA CU) she was one of the youngest CEOs in the country.

In 2014, she was named a 25 Most Influential Leaders in Greater Madison by Madison Magazine and a “Woman to Watch” by Credit Union Times. She was then included in the top 64 picks by credit union professionals across the country as someone who influenced the credit union industry the most since 1990. She has won many business and leadership awards and has been inducted into both the CUES Hall of Fame (2019) and America’s Credit Union Museum Herstory exhibit (2023).

Kim’s unwavering commitment to Summit’s core focus on women and their families propelled Summit to learn and respond to women’s financial challenges back in 2007 when women felt largely ignored by financial providers. She led learning about women’s perspectives and their unique financial challenges to pave the way for addressing them in the way Summit provides service and financial education. Summit won four Governor’s Financial Literacy Awards for their impactful financial education, including the once-in-a-lifetime Legacy Award recognizing a business “whose purpose and heritage is ingrained in sustained financial literacy and capability.” Kim is committed to promoting cooperative principles.

Under her leadership, Summit founded Co-op Connection, a public event emphasizing cooperatives and their benefits. Summit instituted a patronage dividend for its members highlighting The Credit Union Difference. Summit’s member-driven annual meeting boasts up to 4,000 attendees and Kim is a co-founder of the first student run credit union, STAR Credit Union. She champions Summit’s and others’ support of Black-led initiatives like the Center for Black Excellence and Culture, the Black Business Hub, Boys and Girls Club teens trade school (McKenzie Center), and One City Schools as well as Centro Hispano to create better and more vibrant communities.

Within The Movement, she has served as Chair of CUES, Corporate Central Credit Union, and CUNA’s World Affairs Committee. She has been on the board of the World Council Foundation and the Consumer Federation of America in DC and currently serves on the CU Direct/Origence Board.

Kim advocates for representation of women on boards. In 2023, she led Summit to the next level in financial wellness for women and their families with Summit’s Equity in Money which provides solutions to address the wealth gap that develops over a lifetime for many women, creating a poverty disparity. After identifying factors contributing to the gap, Summit is acting on women’s earning power, financial confidence, wealth building, and championing changes in hiring and salary practices.

Pat Wesenberg

Past CEO/President, Past CUNA Chair, Past NCUF Vice-Chair
Simplicity Credit Union  

Though Pat lost her fight with cancer in 2021, the legacy she left behind has inspired her Simplicity Family, community, and countless others. As President/CEO of Simplicity Credit Union, she was a model of servant leadership. She focused not just on financial needs but the needs of the whole person for safety, growth, and self-esteem. 

As a lifelong learner and fierce advocate for financial education, Pat spearheaded initiatives to bring financial literacy to students of all ages and their communities. Under her direction, Simplicity opened high school and elementary school branches that offer no-cost financial education and vital services to students and staff. 

Her commitment to ongoing learning and development empowered the Simplicity team to better serve members and enhance their skills through investments in programs like America’s Credit Unions’ Creating Member Loyalty. With Pat’s guidance, Simplicity Credit Union embraced a culture of volunteerism, giving opportunities for the Simplicity Team to volunteer during work hours and implementing a paid Volunteer PTO day. She was also an active volunteer with state, national, and international credit union organizations. 

Pat’s visionary leadership and personal commitment left a lasting impact on The Credit Union Movement. Her influence transcended organizational boundaries, as evidenced by her mentorship of countless credit union professionals and her involvement with national organizations like America’s Credit Unions (formerly CUNA) and the National Credit Union Foundation. As a Credit Union Development Educator (CUDE), she expanded her advocacy and financial support internationally, helping train and mentor members of the ACCOSCA in Africa and helping found and support the Don Bosco Special School in Kenya. 

Patricia Wesenberg’s remarkable journey exemplifies the transformative potential of credit unions to improve people’s lives and foster community. Her legacy is a beacon of inspiration for credit union professionals worldwide, embodying the core values of cooperation, service, and continuous learning.

Dan Wollin

Retired President
PCM Credit Union

During Dan’s tenure as President, PCM Credit Union grew from $13 million in assets and 3,600 members to $400 million in assets and 14,000 members. Under his pioneering leadership, PCMCU grew out of two buildings, went through a major core conversion, took on one successful merger, and rebranded to People Caring More. 

Dan is a valiant and visionary leader, a steward of credit union principles and values. Even in the last years of his 35-year career with PCMCU, he would meet with new members to listen to their stories and find out how the credit union could make an impact in their lives. He has always seen the good in people, which benefits everyone around him. Dan has served on the Wisconsin Credit Union Review Board, the NWTC Advisory Board, and The Wisconsin Credit Union League’s Government Affairs Committee. In addition, he has written multiple industry-related articles. 

Dan is both a respected and well-liked leader who has also been very effective. PCM Credit Union has consistently achieved a high return of the member scores with Callahan and Associates. Finding unique ways to give back to the membership was always exciting to him and it showed with an average of 350 members attending each annual meeting, making a statement about member loyalty and engagement. 

Dan would be known to randomly pull employees in just to catch up or to drop into a high school sporting event to cheer on a PCM teen in an important game. To some, these may seem like small things, but doing small, genuine things consistently made others around him want to do great things under his leadership, always in tune with the credit union spirit. Dan has always shared his admiration for the founders of The Credit Union Movement who were relentless in their fight for the concepts and cooperative principles that laid out the beautiful foundation of people helping people. These values are what Dan built his career on, making impressions on people over and over again, helping Northeast Wisconsin understand who credit unions are and how we help our communities.