Katie BaileyThe League of Credit Unions & Affiliates presented the 2024 Emerging Professional, Professional, and Advocate of the Year Awards during the 2025 ENGAGE Conference in Orlando, Florida last week. The League Awards program honors credit unions and professionals who demonstrate exemplary service, impactful leadership, and significant achievements across the credit union movement.
Each award is presented to one recipient from each of the four states represented in The League’s footprint: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Virginia.
The Emerging Professional of the Year Award celebrates early-career professionals who have shown exceptional promise, dedication, and enthusiasm for the credit union mission.
The 2024 recipients are:
- Kevin Whitman, Heritage South Credit Union – Sylacauga, Alabama
- Iovani Lopez, Publix Employees Federal Credit Union – Lakeland, Florida
- Sache’ Rodriguez, GeoVista Credit Union – Hinesville, Georgia
- Allie Moebius, Northwest Federal Credit Union (formerly) – Herndon, Virginia
“These rising leaders bring bold ideas, boundless energy, and a deep sense of purpose to everything they do,” said Samantha A.M. Beeler, President of The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates. “From grassroots advocacy and community outreach to financial inclusion and youth mentorship, their impact is already profound. The future of the credit union movement is brighter because of their vision and drive.”
The Professional of the Year Award recognizes seasoned credit union professionals for their exceptional service and contributions to the credit union system through innovation, leadership, and advocacy. In Virginia, this award is known as the Eugene H. Farley Award in recognition of its historical significance.
The 2024 recipients are:
- Joe Newberry, Redstone Federal Credit Union – Huntsville, Alabama
- Don Williams, MIDFLORIDA Credit Union – Lakeland, Florida
- Christina O’Brien, Robins Financial Credit Union – Warner Robins, Georgia
- Deb Vollmer, Langley Federal Credit Union – Newport News, Virginia
“These professionals exemplify what it means to lead with purpose and serve with passion,” said Samantha A.M. Beeler, President of The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates. “Your exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to service embody the very spirit of the credit union movement. From expanding access to financial education and championing consumer advocacy, to mentoring future leaders and transforming communities through philanthropy, your work has left an indelible mark. We celebrate not just your achievements, but the lives you’ve touched and the futures you’ve helped shape.”
The Advocate of the Year Award recognizes professionals who have made outstanding contributions to advocacy efforts, promoting and advancing the credit union cause at both the state and national levels. In Virginia, this award is titled the Red Scarf Advocacy Award to honor its unique legacy.
The 2024 recipients are:
- Mark Johnson, Naheola Credit Union – Pennington, Alabama
- Thomas Flowers, Calhoun Liberty Credit Union – Blountstown, Florida
- Brandee Bickle, Georgia’s Own Credit Union – Atlanta, Georgia
- Paul Willis, BayPort Credit Union – Newport News, Virginia
“We proudly congratulate the 2024 Advocates of the Year for their leadership, dedication, and tenacity as they continue to elevate the credit union mission across legislative and regulatory landscapes,” expressed Samantha A.M. Beeler, President of The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates. “These individuals have not only shaped meaningful policy but also fostered a culture of advocacy within their organizations and communities. Their efforts are a powerful reminder of the impact one voice—amplified through service—can have on the future of our movement.”
The League congratulates each of the 2024 award recipients and thanks them for their continued leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing the credit union movement. Their achievements reflect the values of cooperation, service, and community that define credit unions across the region.
