The Corporate Connection | July 2024
A Note from Chris
At Corporate Central, we are dedicated to giving back to you, our valued members, and to the broader community. Our unwavering commitment to your financial well-being and to the credit union movement defines who we are as an organization and drives our purpose every day.
We aim to elevate our educational offerings and continue to lead by example, ensuring our members and peers are equipped with the best knowledge and practices in the industry. To help us achieve this, Kevin Chiappetta, one of our esteemed senior leaders, took on a new role of Senior Vice President/Chief Education & Research Officer in March 2024. This position allows us to further our dedication to education and training within the credit union sector. Kevin serves as a dedicated expert, providing invaluable insights into balance sheet management and risk mitigation.
We are proud to offer industry-leading rates, a testament to our ongoing efforts to provide you with the best financial products and services. Our competitive rates reflect our mission to support your financial goals and ensure you receive the most value from your membership with us.
In the spirit of community and philanthropy, we are excited to host our inaugural 5k run & walk in Muskego on Saturday, August 3, benefiting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring the legacy of firefighter Stephen Siller, who heroically lost his life on September 11, 2001. The foundation provides mortgage-free homes to the families of fallen first responders and military heroes, supports catastrophically injured veterans by building smart homes, and offers assistance to those impacted by natural disasters. Through its various programs, Tunnel to Towers ensures that the sacrifices made by these brave individuals are never forgotten, and their families are given the support they need to rebuild their lives. This event is more than just a race; it's an opportunity to unite our community for a noble cause. We invite all members and your families to join us in making this event a resounding success.
Additionally, mark your calendars for our Credit Union Day at the Ballpark on Sunday, August 11. This fun-filled event will not only bring us together to enjoy America's favorite pastime but also support The National Credit Union Foundation and The Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation. Your participation helps us give back to the organizations that do so much for our industry and our community.
Our engagement doesn't stop there. We are committed to maintaining strong relationships with our partners and industry contacts. Our presence at various credit union events ensures that we stay at the forefront of industry trends and innovations, allowing us to serve you better.
Thank you for your continued trust and support. Together, we are making a difference and shaping a brighter future for our members and our community.
Sincerely,
Chris Felton
President/CEO
Buzz About Beastro
Revolutionizing ACH Solutions by transitioning from COACH III to Beastro.
We are thrilled to announce the successful transition of our ACH Solutions from COACH III to Beastro, setting a new standard in the payments landscape. This evolution marks a significant milestone in our mission to revolutionize ACH services with cutting-edge technology. Beastro, our state-of-the-art platform, is designed to offer seamless ACH transactions with enhanced functionality, robust security, and an intuitive interface. By directly connecting with the Federal Reserve, Beastro eliminates points of failure and redundant vendors, ensuring unparalleled reliability and efficiency in all ACH services. This direct integration empowers your credit unions to deliver seamless, efficient, and secure transactions to your members.
Ownership of our technology allows us to continuously upgrade and incorporate cutting-edge security measures and industry best practices. Daily reporting tools provide robust recordkeeping, effortless cash management, and superior risk management. Frequent enhancements, based on member feedback, keeps us ahead of the curve. Since we built and developed the software in-house, there are no layers of support. Our members connect directly with our dedicated Member Services team, ensuring they receive the guidance they need whenever they desire it.
Is there something you would like to see in Beastro to make your job easier?
What’s Trending?
Open banking means open opportunities.
All eyes have been on open banking following the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)’s recent release of its Personal Financial Data Rights proposed ruling as different organizations, leaders and stakeholders look to define and understand its potential impacts and opportunities for members, credit unions and the financial services industry.
Where to Find Us: Upcoming Conventions and Events
It’s a great time of year to show our support for credit unions across the country by attending, sponsoring, and presenting at various league and association events. Please stop by the Corporate Central and our CUSO booths and say hello!
August 3 – Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk in Muskego, WI
August 11 – Credit Union Day at the Ballpark in Milwaukee, WI
September 18 to September 20 – Iowa Credit Union Convention in Des Moines, IA
September 25 to September 27 – Michigan Credit Union League Executive Summit in Detroit, MI
Our Community
Seventh annual Addie’s Angels on Earth donation drive results.
Shannon Cate, Manager Member Services, and her husband Kevin started Addie’s Angels on Earth in 2018 to celebrate and remember their daughter, Addison Marie, who was stillborn on June 3, 2016. The charity organization holds a donation drive every June to collect supplies to donate to a local hospital dealing with infant loss. These supplies are used to provide infant loss boxes and other remembrance items to grieving families who are leaving the hospital with their babies in their hearts, instead of in their arms. In 2022, they also started providing supplies for rainbow bags. These bags go to parents who are welcoming their rainbow babies into the world. A rainbow baby is one born after a loss. They also introduced the opportunity to order an angel or a rainbow bag from Addie's Angels to be mailed directly to grieving families. They are hoping this allows for more people to feel the love from their support network.
In its seventh year, the donation drive raised over $10,500 in donations.
“This is a mission that is near and dear to our hearts. With one in four pregnancies ending in a loss, we know that we cannot stop the heartache of losing a baby for another family, but we can try to ease their pain and suffering and remind them they are not alone.” ~ Kevin and Shannon Cate
Corporate Central employees attend Young Professionals Bootcamp.
Our team had the incredible opportunity to participate in the The Wisconsin Credit Union League's Young Professionals Bootcamp in Madison, WI. Heather Ristow, SVP/Chief Experience Officer, took the stage to share insight into her journey within the credit union industry. Mari Sommer and Sierra Randall took advantage of the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills from credit union industry leaders and top executives. Corporate Central is proud of our team for embracing every chance to develop both personally and professionally.
Corporate Central employees help give students a reality check.
Danielle Carter, Amy Nowak, Michele Randall, Orianna Valentine, Sierra Randall, Malisha Ellis, and Will Valadez volunteered their time with Educators Credit Union for their Reality Check Day at UW Milwaukee. Reality Check Day offers a 90-minute interactive simulation of what life is like once students leave the classroom and are free to experience the real world. Students are given the option of selecting their occupation, while other areas of their life are randomly assigned, such as credit score, marital status, and if they have children. This fast-moving exercise gave MPS students real world experience in budgeting for a family. It was a great way to celebrate National Credit Union Youth Month.
Corporate Central employees partner with Habitat for Humanity.
Kent Tushaus, Carolyn Vraney, Shannon Cate, and Michele Vukovic had a great time volunteering at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore. They spent time sorting and pricing donated items so they can be put onto the store shelves. By partnering with Habitat for Humanity, families and communities transform their lives with the incredible effects of safe and affordable shelter, including improvements in health, safety, child development, economic opportunity, and educational achievement.
If you are interested in volunteering with Corporate Central at future events, please send us an email at [email protected].
Technology Tidbit
Top ten banking trends for 2024.
The speed at which AI is being adopted by most organizations in nearly all industries, and the massive escalation of the power of the technology, are convincing indicators that it is here to stay—and will have a profound impact on banking.
Credit Unions Connect
Stories that exemplify the movement
Feeding the community.
Through their Sunny Days Full Plates Food Drive, Altra Federal Credit Union was able to donate a remarkable total of 671 nonperishable food items and over $1,550 in cash donation to local food pantries. These generous donations will help support children and families in need this summer.
Community support for flooding.
CENT Credit Union gave an astounding $10,000 to those who were impacted by flooding. They were able to achieve this donation through volunteer time, monetary donations, and critical supplies. They have been able to donate multiple truckloads of supplies to help support those in need.
What’s New and Who’s Who
Corporate Central welcomed Mari Sommer as Marketing and Events Coordinator.
We are excited to introduce Mari Sommer as our new Marketing and Events Coordinator! Mari’s responsibilities encompass a pivotal role in shaping Corporate Central’s identity through innovative marketing initiatives and seamless event execution. Collaborating closely with the marketing team, she crafts compelling email marketing and social media campaigns tailored to resonate with our diverse audience. Her meticulous attention to detail and exceptional organizational skills ensure that each event reflects the professionalism and integrity synonymous with Corporate Central.
Mari’s journey to Corporate Central began at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, where she earned her bachelor's degree in Marketing alongside a Digital Media Studies & Design Minor. Following graduation, she honed her skills as a Marketing Brand Manager, excelling as a one-person team for over a year. Beyond her professional pursuits, Mari is an avid fitness enthusiast. Whether lifting weights, hitting the trails for a run, or exploring new fitness classes, she embraces the challenge with enthusiasm. Her competitive spirit extends to participating in races, with her sights set on conquering a triathlon in the near future. When not pursuing her fitness goals, Mari finds solace in the outdoors, indulging in activities like hiking, skiing, and camping. Her close bond with family, including daily video calls to see her beloved dogs back home, underscores her appreciation for life's simple joys.
Ryan McMillan is back as Technology Services Director.
We are delighted to welcome Ryan McMillan back to Corporate Central, this time in the esteemed role of Technology Services Director. With a rich background spanning over two decades in IT, governance, compliance, and risk management, Ryan brings a wealth of expertise to his new position. Ryan most recently held a position as a Senior Solutions Architect, where he honed his skills in solutions engineering and client engagement. Now, he is ready to spearhead technological innovation and strategic initiatives that will drive Corporate Central forward in today's dynamic digital landscape. Ryan plays a crucial role in the advancement of our technology development and delivery. His vision extends to making Corporate Central a technology leader in the credit union industry by fostering collaborative relationships among internal business units, members, and third-party partners/vendors.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Ryan is passionate about coaching youth baseball, leveraging his love for the game to mentor young players. He also values spending quality time with his wife, four children, and two dogs, cherishing relaxed and meaningful moments with his family.
Corporate Central gave a fond farewell to Eric Chrisinger and welcomed Laurie Butz to our board.
After 15 years of dedicated volunteer service, including serving as Chair from 2017 to 2019, Eric Chrisinger, President/CEO of Co-op Credit Union in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, has retired from the Corporate Central board of directors. We wish Eric nothing but the best in his retirement. Congratulations, Eric!
To fill the vacant board position, the Corporate Central board unanimously appointed Laurie Butz, President/CEO of Capital Credit Union in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Laurie brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to our board. We look forward to her contributions. Welcome, Laurie!
Meet our new Accounting and Office Assistant, Clare Krupar.
We are excited to introduce Clare Krupar as our new Accounting and Office Assistant. Clare supports the tasks and goals of the accounting department, providing essential assistance for organizational tasks and events. Her responsibilities include providing general accounting support, processing incoming and outgoing mail and packages, offering general office and clerical support, assisting with reception duties, and contributing to various projects as needed.
Clare graduated from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in 2022 with an associate's degree in Nursing. Despite her background in nursing, her passion for business and accounting led her to work as a Customer Service Manager, where she gained valuable hands-on experience. She plans to further her education by pursuing a bachelor's degree in Accounting.
Outside of work, Clare enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, especially playing pickleball and hiking. She also has a passion for painting and drawing, which helps her unwind after a busy day. Welcome to the team, Clare!
