MADISON, Wis.–The president and CEO of the Wisconsin Credit Union League has announced plans to retire, while in California another retirement has led to a change in the chair of the state league.
In Wisconsin, after nearly 23 years serving as Wisconsin league’s president and CEO, Brett Thompson said he will retire in December of this year. The league has launched a search for a successor, with Humanidei handling the search.
“It’s been an honor of a lifetime serving Wisconsin’s credit unions,” Thompson said in a statement. “I am excited to see what the future holds for a movement with such talent and dedication behind it.”
Career Accomplishments
During his tenure, Thompson has overseen:
- The opening of Credit Union House in Madison.
- The formation of The Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation, which has now provided over $1.76 million to promote the wellness of credit unions and the communities they serve.
- Development of Reach Business Lenders to help credit unions source and originate commercial loans.
- Served on the boards of the American Association of Credit Union Leagues (chair), Credit Union House (chair), and the National Credit Union Foundation, as well as CUNA’s Executive, Corporate Governance, and Government Affairs Committees.
- Received the American Association of Credit Union League’s Farley and Eagle awards.
‘Tireless Advocate’
“Brett has been a tireless advocate for Wisconsin’s credit unions and the cooperative movement for over two decades,” said Brandon Riechers, chair of The Wisconsin Credit Union League board and president & CEO of Royal Credit Union. “Brett’s exceptional leadership skills, financial stewardship, and clear vision for the future has positioned the league to achieve continued success. Brett’s influence on Wisconsin credit unions will be evident for years to come and we wish him the very best in his retirement.”
Change in Chairs in California
Separately, in California, the California Credit Union League has announced a change in its chairmanship.
With the June retirement of current Chair Geri LaChance, CEO of the $1.2-billion SESLOC Credit Union, the league has named Donna Bland, CEO of the $21.1-billion The Golden 1 Credit Union as the new chairman.
In a statement, the league thanked LaChance for her “exceptional service,” including one and a half years as chair.
“I want to express our deepest gratitude to Geri for her unwavering commitment to serving our credit unions and guiding the California Credit Union League forward,” Diana Dykstra, president and CEO of the California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues, said in a statement. “During the past year-and-a-half, she has made an indelible mark on our success, demonstrating a level of dedication, expertise, and strategic vision that has benefited our member credit unions and the leaders who serve them. She has navigated our industry’s challenges and opportunities, enabling us to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing landscape. Her unwavering commitment to credit unions’ wellbeing and the success of our organization is truly inspiring.”
‘Honored’ to be Chosen
The league said it is “confident” Bland’s “experience and vision” will guide it through this transition period and into the future.
“I am honored to deepen my involvement with the California Credit Union League and to continue to collaborate with our accomplished board members,” Bland said. “I also look forward to advancing the league’s mission and further amplifying the credit union difference for members and communities statewide, as well as supporting the recently announced alliance between Utah’s Credit Unions and the California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues.”\
‘Leadership & Commitment’
Added Scott Simpson, the current president of the Utah CU League who will be taking over the top spot when the Utah league joins with the California and Nevada leagues under a joint management structure, “Donna Bland’s visionary leadership and commitment to advancing the credit union movement make her an excellent choice for this role. Donna understands the power of collaboration and will help us build resilience while ensuring California, Nevada, and Utah stay true to the unique needs of local credit unions.”