CHICAGO, IL (October 17, 2024) — The Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) successfully concluded its annual convention, Stories that Soar, bringing together credit union leaders from across the state. The event was filled with inspiring presentations, networking opportunities, and a celebration of the credit union movement’s achievements.
ICUL kicked off its dynamic lineup of events with the inaugural CU Imagine contest. This “Shark Tank”-style competition highlighted groundbreaking proposals from credit unions that incorporated findings from ICUL 2024 Multicultural Opportunity Report. Three contestants participated in the contest: Chicago Post Office Employees Credit Union, Education Personnel Federal Credit Union, and Illinois Educators Credit Union. These innovative credit unions presented their plans to a panel of judges and the audience participated in live voting. The grateful winner, Chicago Post Office Employees Credit Union, received $10,000 from the ICU Foundation and event sponsor Envisant.
In a heartfelt segment, Tom Kane, CEO of ICUL, delivered his final keynote address, “Reflections & Storytime.” Tom shared personal anecdotes and insights from his career, inspiring attendees to carry forward the spirit of cooperation and commitment to community that defines the credit union movement. “I am so grateful for the incredible journey we’ve shared together. I feel blessed to have spent 21 years in an industry that is about improving communities, empowering individuals, and making a positive impact on the world. I’m inspired by the passion, dedication, and innovation of our members, and thankful for the many wonderful people I’ve gotten to know and work with over the years.”
The lively exhibit hall opened on day one with the newly launched ICUL & Envisant Business Partner Showcase and the CU Kind® Puppy Lounge; the lounge hosted three service dogs from Canine Therapy Corp offering attendees a unique opportunity to cuddle the pups and donate to the worthy organization – in total raising $1,700. The night ended with Alloya Live, a dance party hosted by Alloya Corporate Credit Union.
Day two of the convention started with high energy and camaraderie in the exhibit hall with breakfast and seven credit union mascots participated in the CU Kind® Mascot Parade. In just 30 minutes, the mascots raised $7,664 for seven local charities.
During the annual ICUL Celebration Lunch attendees honored their peers and colleagues as the event highlighted the outstanding contributions of ICUL Award Winners as well as the America’s Credit Union (ACU) statewide award winners, who have exemplified excellence in the credit union movement. The ACU Awards were given in three categories to deserving credit unions:
The Illinois Credit Union Foundation (ICUF) honored individuals who have commemorative awards established in their names. The Foundation recognized a gift from 1st MidAmerica Credit Union in memory of George G. Burnett and the Chicago Metro Chapter conducted a fundraiser to make a gift in honor of Vicki Ponzo. The foundation also announced a new perpetual memorial award, created by Scott Credit Union, the Betty Renth Perpetual Memorial Award.
The evening closed with a tribute to Tom Kane, the beloved retiring CEO. The Chairperson’s Reception and Fond Farewell offered attendees the opportunity to express their gratitude and share fond memories with Tom for his leadership and dedication. Current Envisant President/COO, and incoming ICUL President/CEO, Libby Calderone shared, “Tom Kane’s leadership and friendship have been invaluable to the Illinois Credit Union League. His unwavering commitment to our members, his vision for the future of the credit union movement, and his mentorship have inspired us all. We are incredibly grateful for his contributions and wish him all the best in his retirement.”
Year after year, the ICUL Annual Convention fosters collaboration and innovation within the credit union community and strives to strengthen the organization’s commitment to serving members and communities.
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 in turn serve approximately 3.4 million members. More information can be found at www.icul.com.
Melissa Vidito
Illinois Credit Union System
630-637-3965
melissa.vidito@envisant.com
