YP Spotlights for August

The Leaguer regularly features Young Professional Spotlights to help you get to know these up-and-comers. This month, meet Natalie Toledo, Jessica Cranke, and Dawn Johnson

Natalie Toledo, Frontier Community Credit Union

Natalie Toledo, executive administrative assistant at Frontier Community Credit Union, has been in the credit union industry for just over three years. A longtime credit union member, Toledo said the mission of people helping people felt like home from the start.

“I didn’t find the credit union industry…the credit union industry found me,” she explained. “Once I stepped into the world of credit unions, I realized this was more than just a job—it was a movement centered on people helping people.”

Toledo leads Frontier’s Meals on Wheels volunteer efforts, growing the program from just two people to a team of 12. She also uses her bilingual skills to support Spanish-speaking members, ensuring they feel seen and supported.

Among her proudest accomplishments is launching the credit union’s internal newsletter in January. “It started as a way to improve communication across departments, but it’s become a platform to share wins, celebrate staff, and spotlight Young Professionals,” she said.

Outside of work, Toledo enjoys crafting, baking, and powerlifting. She also dreams of building a stronger YP group within her credit union. “Even after my term as YP Advisor ends, I plan to continue leading and supporting the group to help it thrive long-term,” she said.

Jessica Cranke, TTCU Federal Credit Union

Jessica Cranke is a quality control specialist at TTCU Federal Credit Union with eight years in the credit union industry. She said her favorite part of the work is the community focus: “Unlike big corporations, credit unions exist to serve people, not profits.”

Cranke was elected chairperson of TTCU’s Young Professionals group, a role she calls one of her proudest accomplishments. “It’s an honor to be recognized by colleagues I respect, and it’s given me the chance to lead initiatives that support career development, foster connection, and strengthen our workplace culture.”

She also earned her Certified Residential Underwriter designation through the Mortgage Bankers Association, even though she wasn’t an underwriter at the time. “It shows my drive to grow and explore different areas within the mortgage industry,” she said.

Cranke collaborates with YPs through TTCU’s internal program, Cornerstone YP, and the Global Women’s Leadership Network. Looking ahead, she hopes to take on more leadership roles and mentor others.

Her advice to new YPs: “Say yes to opportunities, even the ones that feel outside your comfort zone. Those moments help you grow, build connections, and discover new strengths.”

Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, trying new foods, and riding motorcycles with her husband and friends.

Dawn Johnson, Fort Worth City Credit Union

Dawn Johnson, marketing assistant at Fort Worth City Credit Union, has worked in the credit union industry for more than a decade. She said her inspiration to join the movement was simple: “The love and dedication for people and communities.”

Johnson is most proud of her role as a Cornerstone Young Professional Advisor, which she says has fueled her growth in leadership, self-confidence, and community. She is also a graduate of the League Leadership Program, where she earned the Outstanding Student Award.

She admits to once struggling with imposter syndrome but overcame it by focusing on supporting others. “I realized I didn’t have to have it all figured out to make an impact,” she said.

Involved with her local Fort Worth Chapter, Johnson helps organize drives for local schools and charities. She brings what she calls a “real, people-first perspective” to her work, making space for new ideas and voices in the movement.

Her advice to other YPs: “Speak up, stay curious, and take every opportunity to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or step outside your comfort zone. Your voice matters, even if you’re new.”

Outside of work, Johnson enjoys live streaming. Though she describes herself as shy, she says the credit union movement has helped her grow more confident in sharing her voice.

These young professionals are making a difference in their credit unions and communities. Stay tuned for more YP Spotlights next month!