Congratulations to Kiarra Herson, Member Education Coordinator, on earning her Credit Union Development Educator (CUDE™) designation through the National Credit Union Foundation’s Credit Union Development Education (DE) Program.
Since 1982, the DE Program has helped transform the credit union movement by educating professionals on the development issues that impact financial well-being and empowering them to create meaningful solutions through the credit union philosophy. Through immersive learning experiences and collaboration with credit union professionals from across the country, participants gain a deeper understanding of the cooperative principles that make credit unions unique and the role they play in improving the financial health of individuals and communities.
The program focuses on key areas including the credit union difference, empathy and emotional intelligence in financial services, and identifying and addressing barriers that prevent people from achieving financial freedom. Graduates earn the CUDE™ designation, signifying a strong understanding of how credit unions can leverage their cooperative structure to create positive change.
“I was honored to attend the Credit Union Development Education Program hosted by the National Credit Union Foundation recently in Madison, WI. The program was both meaningful and impactful. It went beyond gaining knowledge—it was an opportunity to connect with others who are equally passionate about serving their communities and creating a positive change. The conversations and shared perspectives challenged me to think more intentionally about the work I do and how it contributes to something bigger than myself. I left feeling inspired, more confident in my role, and better equipped to support initiatives that make a lasting difference. CUDE reinforced for me that in the nonprofit space, collaboration and shared purpose are key to building stronger, more resilient communities and creating impact that truly lasts.”
-Kiarra Herson, Member Education Coordinator, at Limestone FCU.
At Limestone FCU, we are committed to investing in the professional development of our team. Programs like the Credit Union Development Education Program strengthen our ability to serve our members by deepening our understanding of the challenges individuals and communities face and how credit unions can help address them. By supporting continuing education opportunities, we equip our team with the knowledge and skills needed to advance our mission of improving financial well-being and making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.
“The CUDE certification reinforces the importance of cooperative principles, financial well-being, and community impact. Kiarra’s passion for serving others made her an excellent candidate for this program, and we are proud to celebrate this accomplishment and the value it will bring to our members and communities.”
-Sabrina Oshelski, Business Development Officer, at Limestone FCU.
