SALT LAKE CITY — Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN Hospitals) has named Caroline Willard, president and CEO of the Cornerstone CU League, as chair of its Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids) Advisory Board, succeeding John Bratsakis, president & CEO of the Maryland & D.C. Credit Union Association, has completed his term as chair.
In a statement, CMN said Bratsakis has played an instrumental role in advancing CU4Kids’ mission to engage the credit union movement in fundraising efforts that support children’s hospitals across the U.S. and Canada.
‘Significant Milestones’
The organization noted that under Bratsakis’ leadership, CU4Kids achieved significant milestones, improving the long-term sustainability of the program and year-after-year fundraising records. In addition, during his tenure, CU4Kids increased to $18.7 million from $10.3 million, while the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Run, which Bratsakis also spearheads, has raised nearly $12 million for CMN Hospitals since 2002.
“John’s leadership has left a lasting impact on our shared mission,” said Aimee J. Daily, president and CEO of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, said in a statement. “His passion for the credit union movement has been instrumental in strengthening Credit Unions for Kids. His efforts have helped us provide vital support for local children’s hospitals, laying a strong foundation for future growth. We are deeply grateful for his dedicated service.”
‘Deep Industry Experience’
CMN said Willard will now assume the role of chairperson and bring with her deep industry expertise and commitment to the CU4Kids mission.
“As president & CEO of the Cornerstone League, Willard has long been a champion of credit union advocacy and social impact, having served as Vice Chair of the CU4Kids National Advisory Board for the past year,” the organization said. “In 2024, she founded and hosted the inaugural Bourbon, BBQ & Bands event, which raised an incredible $600,000 for CMN Hospitals.”
The second event is set for Oct. 30, 2025 in Fort Worth, Texas.
‘Honored’ by Role
“I am honored to step into this role and continue the incredible work John has championed,” said Willard in a statement. “CU4Kids is a powerful example of the credit union difference—when we come together, we can transform the lives of children and families in our communities.”
New Vice Chair
CMN said Chris Roe, SVP of corporate and legislative affairs at TruStage, will begin his tenure as the vice chair of the Credit Unions for Kids Advisory Board. The organization said Roe has been a supporter of CU4Kids for over 15 years, beginning when he was a member of the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Run organizing committee. He has also been a member of the national CU4Kids Advisory Board for over five years.
“Chris has been a real difference maker for the CU4Kids program, playing an active role on our national Advisory Board and supporting many of our regional events,” Nick Coleman, director of Credit Unions for Kids, said in a statement. “I’m grateful Chris has agreed to step up in a prominent way to help us improve the lives of many families across the country.”
More Than $200 Million Raised
CU4Kids, the credit union industry’s charity of choice, has raised more than $200 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals since its inception. The Advisory Board plays a critical role in guiding strategy, strengthening partnerships, and advancing the program’s impact nationwide.
For info: www.CU4Kids.org
