LOWELL, Mass.– Mark S. Cochran, president and CEO of Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, has been named 2022 CEO of the Year by the Cooperative Credit Union Association (CCUA).
The award recognizes CEOs in Massachusetts, Delaware, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island who demonstrate exceptional leadership, inspire their employees, and commit to putting the needs of others at the forefront. Cochran was recognized during a luncheon during the CCUA Annual APEX Conference at Mohegan Sun on October 13.
Cochran was nominated by Jeanne D’Arc’s executive leadership team and board.
“Throughout his 15 years at Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, Mark has embodied the Credit Union’s ‘Heart to Serve’ mission through his philanthropic work in the community and dedication to his employees,” read an excerpt from the nomination. “Mark has guided the credit union through physical growth, doubling the number of branches, building a new headquarters, a new Lowell branch, and establishing two high school branches.
“Taking into consideration the challenges over the previous two years resulting from the pandemic, Mark deemed 2022 the ‘Year of the People,’acknowledging the stress on Jeanne D’Arc’s employees and focusing on processes that improve employees’ ability to do their job. Mark’s empathetic leadership during a time of significant change and unrest is consistent with his tenure at Jeanne D’Arc,” the nomination continued. “Mark is the definition of a true and successful leader and is the driving force behind the Credit Union’s success.”
‘Incredibly Humbled’
“I am incredibly humbled to be recognized by the CCUA,” said Cochran. “Fifteen years ago I entered the Lowell Community and I never looked back. I am so proud to be part of the community, the industry, and the Jeanne D’Arc Team.”