NAPERVILLE, Ill. — The Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) has announced the creation of its first‑ever Young Professional Associate Director position on its board, an initiative “designed to elevate emerging leaders, strengthen statewide engagement, and foster long-term leadership development within the Illinois credit union movement,” according to the league.
After what it described as a competitive nomination and interview process, Jordan Harcharik, training and development manager at Streator Onized Credit Union (SOCU), has been named as the inaugural Young Professional Associate Director. Harcharik will be sworn in during the ICUL Annual Meeting on April 14, 2026, in Springfield.
“Jordan’s leadership and commitment to advancing financial education have made a meaningful impact at SOCU and in our communities. Her perspective and dedication will serve the League well in this new Associate Director role,” Douglas Patterson, president/CEO of Streator Onized Credit Union said in a statement.
The ICUL said the new associate director role reflects its ongoing commitment to ensuring young professionals have opportunities to contribute meaningfully at the highest levels of governance. By participating directly in board dialogue and strategic initiatives, young professionals gain leadership experience, expand their professional networks, and provide fresh perspectives that help shape the future of the movement, the league said.
‘Fresh Perspectives’
“In order to foster leadership development, the Illinois Credit Union League is proudly introducing its first-ever Young Professional Associate Director position on its board,” ICUL President/CEO Libby Calderone said in a statement. “This initiative recognizes that engaging young professionals provides fresh perspectives and ensures a stronger future for the credit union movement. Their voices enrich our work, strengthen our statewide community, and help advance our mission.”
Harcharik has spent nearly eight years at SOCU, advancing from training specialist to her current leadership role overseeing staff development, compliance training, strategic projects, and financial education outreach across multiple school and community groups. According to the league, her efforts contributed to SOCU earning a 1st Place Desjardins Award (Adult category) and 2nd Place (Youth category) at the ICUL Convention. She is also recognized locally as an Outstanding Young Leader and a member of the region’s 40 Under Forty class.
At the league level, Harcharik has been active as an ICUL YP Advisory Committee Member, Tri-County Chapter Young Professional Representative, and contributor to chapter events and CUPAC fundraising initiatives.
‘Deeply Honored’“I am deeply honored to serve as ICUL’s first Young Professional Associate Director,” Harcharik said in a statement. “Illinois credit unions have shaped my career and my passion for people‑focused financial service. I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent young professionals across our state and contribute to a movement that continues to change lives.”
