OSWEGO, Ill.–Earthmover Credit Union has named a new president and CEO effective Jan. 1 upon the retirement of President/CEO Kelly McDonough.
The credit union has selected Janel Cabadas to lead the organization. Cabadas has more than 20 years with Earthmover CU, most recently serving as EVP.
A lifelong Oswego resident, Cabadas worked as a teller at Earthmover’s student-run branch, Panther Credit Union, at Oswego High School, and after earning a bachelor’s in communication with minors in Spanish, English and psychology, she returned to the credit union to work in business development. She served as vice president of marketing & business development for over seven years before taking the EVP role.
‘Future is Bright’
Cabadas graduated from the CUES CEO Institute in 2025, which featured intensive training in strategic planning, leadership and organizational effectiveness at Cornell University, Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia and The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
“The future of the credit union is bright,” said Cabadas in a statement. “We have a very strong foundation and strong team, with many initiatives in mind to help serve our membership.”
Earthmover CU said that throughout her career Cabadas has championed many important initiatives, including a full scale rebrand of the credit union in 2022, and has also managed branch remodels, the new Batavia branch, a merger with Peoples Energy Credit Union and a move toward a more digital environment.
“Janel epitomizes servant leadership,” ECU said. “She could often be found at Shred Events hauling boxes or collecting donations at fundraising events. For Janel, every job, no matter how small, is given dedication. As president/CEO, Janel will pave a new way forward as Earthmover’s biggest advocate.”
‘Tenacious and Passionate’
Added the retiring Kelly McDonough, who spent 30 years in senior leadership positions, “Janel is one of the finest leaders I have had the opportunity to work with. She is excellent with people and cares about their success; she is tenacious and passionate about the mission and future of Earthmover. You will have an exceptional leader at your helm.”
The credit union said McDonough leaves behind a legacy of charitable service, exemplary leadership and commitment to credit union members.
