Sister Societies

Sister Societies are local Global Women Leadership Network chapters (part of the World Council of Credit Unions) established around the world to further the Network’s global mission of making a local impact. Chapter members do this by convening credit union leaders (men and women), discussing credit union issues, exchanging ideas, networking with neighboring credit union leaders, and sharing lessons learned. Sister Societies also provide an opportunity to talk through important issues impacting women leaders in credit unions.

The Sister Society initiative within the Cornerstone region is part of the League’s International Relationship Committee.

Upcoming Meetings

Sister Society chapters hold networking and educational events throughout the year. Keep checking back for more events.

Latest News

Why Young Professionals Should Get Involved with Sister Society

Thu May 08, 2025

Read time: 1 min 

Nichole HelmSister Society is part of the Global Women’s Leadership Network (GWLN), created to connect like-minded credit union professionals and advance women in leadership. With 162 societies across 28 countries, including nine in the Cornerstone region, each chapter hosts unique events focused on professional growth, mentorship, and community engagement. 

 

Why It Matters for YPs 

For young professionals, Sister Society presents a gateway to lasting connections and personal development. Events range from lunch-and-learns and networking socials to volunteer opportunities and panels with industry leaders. Importantly, these events are open to everyone, not just women or those in leadership roles. 

Attending Sister Society events has made a powerful impact on many YPs. Shelby Lightfoot of Tinker Federal Credit Union shared how the gatherings have allowed her to connect with women across the industry.

“These events allow women to empower other women, build each other up, and be a support system,” said Lightfoot. 

Jessica Cranke of TTCU Federal Credit Union echoed that sentiment, noting how the events helped her grow her network and meet professionals she might not have connected with otherwise.

Dawn Johnson of Fort Worth City Credit Union emphasized how Sister Society supports self-growth and values young professionals’ perspectives in shaping the future of credit unions. 

Nicole Bennett of Allegiance Federal Credit Union shared that the most meaningful part for her is learning from inspiring credit union leaders. The chance to hear real stories of success, setbacks, and leadership journeys makes each event a valuable experience. 

 

How to Get Involved 

To find a local chapter, visit the Sister Society webpage or connect with a Cornerstone YP Advisor: 

Whether you’re seeking mentorship, looking to lead, or simply want to connect, Sister Society is a movement worth joining. 

 

Questions?

For more information regarding Sister Societies, including upcoming meetings, how you can get involved and volunteer in an existing or new chapter, please contact one of the following leaders:

Arkansas Chapter

Tammy Passafiume
Diamond Lakes FCU

Central Texas Chapter

Shelli McCoy
First Central CU

Greater Houston Chapter

Monique Gunter 
Wellby Financial

Kansas Chapter

Nicole El-Chami
CU of America
Vicki Plank 
Meritrust CU

Missouri Chapter

Michelle Wood 
Mazuma CU 
Jean Hughes 
Mainstreet CU

North Texas Chapter

Mary Beth Spuck
Resource One CU
Lily Newfarmer
Tarrant County’s CU

Oklahoma City Chapter

Amy Downs
Allegiance CU
Griselda Spencer
Teachers CU

Tulsa Chapter

Gina Wilson
Oklahoma Central CU 
Jen Martin 
Oklahoma Central CU

West Texas Chapter

Judy DeHaro 
FirstLight CU