Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

At Cornerstone League, we’re proud of our members’ individual milestones and professional advancements. Here’s this week’s significant news.

KState Credit Union Celebrates CEO’s 35 Years of Service

Read time: 39 secs

Kstate Credit Union’s team members, board of directors, and supervisory committee are honoring their chief executive officer, LaRae Kraemer, as she reaches an incredible milestone. On Feb. 19, Kraemer will celebrate 35 years of service, leadership, and commitment to the credit union community.

The Manhattan, Kan.-based credit union’s announcement said, “She has worked tirelessly to serve the membership by growing up on the teller line, advancing into operations and lending, and becoming the president/CEO in 2006.”

“LaRae’s unwavering dedication, strategic vision, and passion for serving has shaped our credit union’s mission and vision,” the statement continued. “We extend our deepest gratitude for her remarkable contributions and inspiring leadership. Many congratulations on this amazing achievement, LaRae! Here’s to many more successful years ahead.”

KState is asking the public to join in celebrating Kraemer with a card shower. Send cards to Kstate Credit Union, c/o LaRae Kraemer, 601 McCall Rd, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Soarion CU Welcomes Sharlene East as Chief Financial Officer

Read time: 1 min, 10 secs

Sharlene East has joined San Antonio-based Soarion Federal Credit Union as its chief financial officer. With more than 22 years of experience in the financial industry, East is a proven expert in planning, financial oversight, and risk management, ensuring compliance and boosting profitability through innovative solutions and collaborative team efforts.

East, a Certified Public Accountant, spent the prior 22 years with Kirtland Federal Credit Union in New Mexico, including as its chief financial officer and interim chief executive officer. She holds a master’s in management and leadership from Webster University and a Bachelor of Science in accounting with a minor in economics from New Mexico State University.

“Throughout her career, Sharlene has demonstrated exceptional skills in orchestrating teams to achieve efficiency while promoting innovation and collaboration,” said Ric Ledezma, president/CEO of Soarion Credit Union. “She is deeply committed to continuous improvement, ensuring not only the success of her projects, but also the development of the people she works with. We are thrilled to have Sharlene join Soarion at such an exciting time for the credit union.”

This spring, Soarion will open its sixth financial center in San Antonio, while work continues on its new headquarters at Soarion Plaza on Mulberry Avenue near the city’s downtown. Later this year, the credit union plans to open its seventh San Antonio location.

“I am honored to join such an energetic and collaborative team at Soarion Credit Union,” East said. “Their dedication to the members and their passion for finding innovative solutions shines through. It really is an exciting time for Soarion, and I’m glad to be part of this next chapter in the long legacy of the credit union.