The Credit Union Builder Award honors an individual’s dedication to the success, growth, and vitality of the not-for-profit financial movement in Minnesota.

​Dedications are typically made at a special time of significance to acknowledge their contributions to credit unions.
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Nearly 100 individuals have been designated as Credit Union Builders since the award's inception in 2008. The names of the recipients and the contributing credit unions are permanently displayed in the Minnesota Credit Union Network’s lobby as a tribute to those who have dedicated time and energy to building the credit union movement.

The honorees (or their families, in the case of a memoriam contribution) receive acknowledgement from the Minnesota Credit Union Foundation, and donors are also listed online and in the Foundation’s annual report. A minimum $1,500 contribution is required to designate a Credit Union Builder Award.

To nominate a colleague, please complete the nomination form. With questions, contact Andrea Molnau, Executive Director of the Minnesota Credit Unions Foundation.

We are pleased to share testimonials from several MnCUN Associate Members about the value of membership with the Minnesota Credit Union Network. Credit unions operating in Minnesota that are headquartered in a state other than Minnesota are eligible for associate membership. 

“As a member of the Minnesota Credit Union Network (MnCUN), I am continually impressed by the invaluable support and resources the organization provides. MnCUN’s regulatory advocacy and compliance resources are essential in navigating the complex landscape of credit union regulations. The organization’s professional development programs and peer-to-peer sessions offer opportunities for growth and networking. Personally, I find value in the CEO peer group discussions and the collaborative efforts on regulatory and legislative issues, which have assisted in our advocacy initiatives.”

-Brandon Riechers, President/CEO, Royal Credit Union, MnCUN Tier 2 Associate Member

“I was introduced to the Minnesota Credit Union Network by other CEOs. The word Network describes the reason we are part of it – the networking that we’ve been a part of creates opportunities to connect, learn from others in our industry, and potentially partner in other credit union ventures.

​Mara and the whole team are extremely supportive and there to help.  Some of the things we have found most valuable are the consistent outreach and access, updates to state/national legislative issues, meetings that aren’t just focused in large metros, and support for the regional chapter. We have also recently partnered with TruLync Medicare Advisors. In the true spirit of the cooperative industry we are in, multiple credit unions from the Network came together to offer this in our region. I’ve been impressed with the leadership and support we get from MnCUN!”

-Tim Foster, President & CEO, Superior Choice Credit Union, MnCUN Tier 1 Associate Member

“Belonging to the Minnesota Credit Union Network helps us stay connected and informed on the state’s credit union industry, regulatory environment and legislative action. It also gives Veridian employees a chance to interact locally with other mission-minded credit union professionals on common goals and interests. As the Vice President of Community and Government Relations, I especially appreciate Ryan Smith’s insight on federal issues of concern. It’s an invaluable relationship.”

-Kim Fettkether, Vice-President of Community & Government Relations, MnCUN Tier 1 Associate Member

MnCUN ensures credit union priorities are front and center as we advocate, accelerate, collaborate, and celebrate Minnesota's thriving credit union system. ​MnCUN staff would like to thank each member for supporting Minnesota's thriving credit union system.

CFPB Proposes Rule To Stop Data Brokers Selling Personal Data: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) recently announced a proposed rule to rein in data brokers that sell Americans' sensitive personal and financial information. 

​CFPB Final Rule on Personal Data and Stop Illegal "Debanking": On November 21, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued a final rule to supervise the largest nonbank companies offering digital funds transfer and payment wallet apps. 

CFPB Report Shows Bank Discrimination in Small Business Lending: On November 13, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) released a report along with the US Department of Justice on matched-pair testing to test for and detect differential treatment of fictitious well-qualified Black and white small business owners seeking credit at large bank lenders in two counties. 

CFPB Auto Finance Fall Supervisory Highlight: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued its Fall Supervisory Highlights focused on auto financing on October 7. 

MnCUN's Network Service Corporation works to develop relationships with vendors in order to help your credit union meet the financial needs of your members. By negotiating on behalf of Minnesota credit unions, the NSC is able to ensure your organization has access to a variety of products and services at an unbeatable price. Credit Unions are encouraged to visit the Solutions Directory to see a comprehensive list of service providers.

​​The Minnesota Credit Union Network is enrolling new participants into the Vendor Involvement Program for 2025.
The Vendor Involvement Program (VIP) combines advertising, exhibit hall packages, and other benefits.

Participation in the Minnesota Credit Union Network's Vendor Involvement Program showcases your company to credit unions across the state. Visit the Partner With Us page for details on benefits and to enroll.

The Minnesota Credit Unions for Kids Committee invites all credit unions to participate in the 2025 Chain of Hearts fundraiser Jan. 2 to Feb. 28, 2025*. ​

​​The initiative benefits Minnesota and western Wisconsin’s Children’s Miracle Network Hospital, Gillette Children’s. Gillette Children’s treats kids with disabilities and complex medical conditions in all Minnesota counties and beyond.
During the fundraiser, credit union staff, members, and local businesses are encouraged to purchase paper links and hearts that are connected and hung in lobbies to help illustrate the "people helping people" philosophy of credit unions. All proceeds benefit Gillette Children's Hospital.

​​​To participate, credit unions simply fill out the registration form by Friday, December 13, 2024 and CU4Kids will provide Chain of Hearts materials at no cost. With questions, reach out to Director of Engagement, Xiong Lee
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*Although these are the campaign dates, credit unions may participate during any time frame that best fits their calendar.