FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 7, 2021
Washington, DC

Credit Union National Association (CUNA) today announced three promotions to strengthen its products and solutions division, which includes credit union learning programs and news publishing channels.

Michelle Willits has been promoted to Publisher for CUNA publications, most notably the Credit Union Magazine. Willits will lead strategy for the team and oversee print and digital content, podcast episodes, and the award-winning newsletter for credit union boards. In her previous role as Deputy Editor, Willits oversaw circulation, marketing, and operations for CUNA publications, which she will continue to do in her new role. Willits has been with CUNA for 18 years and prior to that was a journalist for local newspapers in Colorado, Illinois, Montana, and Nevada. Willits holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Montana-Missoula. 

Willie Benjamin has been promoted to Vice President of Meetings and Event Experiences. In his new role, Benjamin will oversee the strategic management and planning of 70 educational programs as well as CUNA’s Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC), which attracts more than 5,000 credit union advocates every year. During his tenure as Director of Meeting and Exhibits, Benjamin certified his entire team of event managers in virtual event production to best meet the needs of CUNA members amid the global pandemic. Prior to joining CUNA, Benjamin was the Director of Meetings and Education for the International Reading Association, now known as the International Literacy Association. 

Jennifer Plager has been promoted to Managing Editor for CUNA publications. Plager will serve as the project manager for specialty campaigns, develop and deliver CUNA publications content through integration within Solutions, and continue to produce news products with an emphasis on the board audience. In her previous role as Senior Editor, Plager developed and delivered content for Credit Union Magazine, the CUNA News Podcast, Credit Union Directors Newsletter, and CUNA News. Plager holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

“Michelle, Willie, and Jennifer have made a significant impact in their respective roles. We are glad to recognize the work they have done to develop their teams and ultimately strengthen our product and services lineup,” said Todd Spiczenski, CUNA Executive Vice President/Chief Products & Services Officer. “I have no doubt that they will continue to succeed and play an important role in providing our members with premier solutions.”

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About CUNA:           
Credit Union National Association (CUNA) is the only national association that advocates on behalf of all of America’s credit unions, which are owned by 120 million consumer members. CUNA, along with its network of affiliated state credit union leagues, delivers unwavering advocacy, continuous professional growth and operational confidence to protect the best interests of all credit unions. For more information about CUNA, visit cuna.org. To find your nearest credit union, visit YourMoneyFurther.com.

CONTACT:
Lauren Williams
CUNA Communications
202-672-3396