MADISON, Wis.— CUES has named its 2026 award recipients and Hall of Fame inductee, “recognizing two accomplished leaders, one exceptional credit union, and a lifetime of service that have strengthened organizations, communities, and the credit union movement,” the organization said.
Those being recognized include:
CUES Outstanding Chief Executive
Chris Harlan, CEO, University of Illinois Community Credit Union
“This award recognizes leaders at the CEO level who display professional achievement, support employee motivation, and are dedicated to their community,” CUES said. “From 2019 to 2026, Harlan helped University of Illinois Community Credit Union double its assets and grow its membership by more than 35%. His focus on empowering employees helped the credit union earn the Top 25 Best Credit Unions to Work For in America designation for five consecutive years.
“Harlan also established a partnership program with organizations in the community to bring financial education to employees and families.”
CUES Distinguished Director
Kenneth Ampy, CCD, Immediate Past Chairman, Virginia Credit Union
The CUES Distinguished Director Award honors a volunteer whose achievements have strengthened their credit union.
“Ampy provided steady, strategic leadership through periods of significant change, including the challenges following the pandemic and Virginia Credit Union’s recent merger process,” CUES said. “Known for sound judgment, integrity, and a collaborativeapproach, Ampy helped the board remain focused on members, employees, and long-term organizational strength. A graduate of CUES Strategic Growth Institute and CUES Governance Leadership Institute, Ampy has also demonstrated a sustained commitment to learning and effective governance.”
John Pembroke Catalyst for Change Award
LAFCU, Michigan
The John Pembroke Catalyst for Change Award recognizes credit unions advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in meaningful, lasting ways.
“LAFCU has built an inclusive culture grounded in empathy, action, and accountability,” CUES said. “Under the leadership of Kelli Ellsworth Etchison, DEI has become an organizational priority reflected in day-to-day interactions, a representative employee committee, thoughtful learning experiences, and multicultural celebrations that have grown from an internal initiative into a community event.”
CUES Hall of Fame Inductee
Gerry Agnes, Retired CEO of Elevations Credit Union
The CUES Hall of Fame honors lifetime achievement and significant contributions to the credit union movement, including service to one’s organization and industry, community involvement, continuing education, and contributions to CUES.
“Agnes reflects that standard through a sustained commitment to learning, leadership, and service. Before retiring in February 2026,” CUES said. “Agnes served as CEO of Elevations Credit Union for 17 years and was a CUES member for 25 years. His CUES involvement included eight years on the CUES Arizona/Southern California Council Board and six years on the CUES Board.”
Exemplify Leadership
“These honorees exemplify the leadership, courage, and commitment that move the credit union industry forward,” Brian Cacic, CUES VP-member experience, said in a statement. “From delivering meaningful growth and strong governance to creating cultures of belonging and modeling a lifetime of service, their impact reaches far beyond their own organizations. CUES is proud to celebrate their achievements and the example they have set for leaders across the movement.”
The CUES Distinguished Director Award and John Pembroke Catalyst for Change Award will be presented at CUES Directors Conference, Dec. 6-9 in San Antonio.
The CUES Outstanding Chief Executive Award and CUES Hall of Fame induction will be honored at CUES Symposium, Jan. 31-Feb. 4, 2027, in Marco Island, Florida, during a newly added Awards & Recognition Luncheon presented by Visa. Visa’s sponsorship underscores a shared commitment to recognizing visionary leadership and the individuals shaping the future of the credit union industry.
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