Foundation Professional Development Grant Recipients Share Heartfelt Messages

February is often associated with appreciation and gratitude — and across the Cornerstone region, credit unions are sharing heartfelt thanks for the impact of the Foundation’s Professional Development Grants.

These grants do more than fund training. They invest in people. They strengthen teams. And they deepen commitment to the credit union movement.

Carole Wight, president of Holy Rosary Credit Union (HRCU), described the grants’ impact as transformative:

“These training opportunities change staff members forever. Upon completion of the training, not only are they committed to HRCU, but to the MOVEMENT for the remainder of their career. They have a glimpse of the power of the movement and the resources available. We are very grateful to the Cornerstone Foundation for contributing these life changing funds!”

For many recipients, the grant represents both opportunity and affirmation.

“I'm incredibly grateful for this opportunity and truly appreciate the support. This grant will make a meaningful difference in helping me grow professionally and pursue development goals that will enhance both my skills and contributions,” said Kiki Shollar, CUCE, SCMS, president of Alcon Employees Federal Credit Union.

At 1st University Credit Union, President/CEO Kevin Hood emphasized how professional development strengthens the entire organization:

“(Cornerstone Foundation’s) Professional Development Grant supports our ongoing commitment to staff development and ensures that our team stays equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to better serve our members and strengthen our credit union. Thank you for your continued support as we invest in the growth of our team, and a huge ‘thank you’ to the Cornerstone Foundation.”

For individual team members, the impact is personal.

“I look forward to using the tools and knowledge that I gained from this conference to better serve our members and continue making a positive impact for our Credit Union,” said Destiney Smith, loan officer at Wichita Falls Federal Credit Union.

In other cases, the ripple effect expands services to members.

“This professional development grant helps to offset the expense to send four of my team through the FiCEP program, which will certify those team members as financial counselors. This will allow us to open up additional services and provide assistance to the many members we have that could seriously benefit from that service,” said Lisa Autry, president/CEO of City Credit Union.

For smaller institutions with limited budgets, the grants are often the difference between growth and standing still.

“Without this funding, we would not have been able to attend any training events due to our limited budget. On behalf of Priority Federal Credit Union, we extend our deepest gratitude to the Cornerstone Foundation for their continued support. Their generosity makes a meaningful difference in our ability to grow, learn, and better serve our members,” said Candi Reddell, CEO/manager of Priority Federal Credit Union.

These messages reflect something deeper than gratitude. They reflect a shared belief that investing in people strengthens the entire cooperative system.

The deadline to apply for 2026 Professional Development Grants is Feb. 27. Credit unions ready to invest in their teams are encouraged to apply and continue the cycle of growth, service, and impact.

Because when we invest in each other, the entire movement grows stronger.