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Home » Range of talents benefits members
Operations CU Rock Stars 2022

Range of talents benefits members

Denise Leonard enjoys resolving issues and researching the causes.

September 23, 2022
Lucy Harr
One Comment
Denise Leonard

As vice president at Generations Credit Union in Rockford, Ill., Denise Leonard wears many hats. But it’s a fashion statement she’s happy to make.

“My day goes so quickly—that’s my favorite part of my job,” she says. “The day flies by because there’s always something to work on, whether it’s engaging directly with members, keeping operations running smoothly, or implementing product and service improvements. But ironically, it’s also the least favorite: knowing there’s always more I could or should be doing.”

As one of four full-time employees at the $21 million asset credit union, Leonard’s background as a computer programmer, systems analyst, and high school business education teacher serves her well.

“I enjoy resolving issues and researching the causes,” she says. “Members and co-workers can count on me to get to the bottom of a problem. I enjoy having new challenges, and every day offers the opportunity for something new.”

Leonard began her credit union career as a part-time member service representative while pursuing her teaching certificate. 

After teaching full time for a year and part time for two years, Leonard pivoted to the credit union to improve people’s financial acumen.

Meet the 2022 Credit Union Rock Stars

And she has.

“She is passionate about giving people the opportunity to improve their financial aptitude through education and one-to-one mentoring,” says Generations President/CEO Karen Jurasek.

For example, Leonard worked with a member with special needs whose parents wanted him to be more financially literate and independent. Using products developed for the underserved and setting up a model for him to follow, Leonard enabled the member to become more financially self-reliant. 

She met with the member regularly to monitor his progress and provide feedback on his successes and setbacks.

As a board member and now its chair, Leonard has been a catalyst for change in reshaping the mission of the Rockford Area Chapter of Credit Unions, making it more purpose-driven and valuable. The chapter sponsors an awareness campaign in the fall that culminates in an International Credit Union Day celebration at a local coffee shop. 

Leonard also is treasurer at the Ida Public Library in Belvidere, Ill. 

“Serving on the library board has given me the opportunity to be involved in and help our community,” she says.

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KEYWORDS Credit Union Rock Stars

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Credit Union Magazine: Rock Stars 2023

Rock Stars 2023

Credit Union Rock Stars are outstanding credit union professionals and directors from a wide range of disciplines who inspire and innovate to advance the missions of their credit unions. The 25 members of the 11th class of Rock Stars were selected for their exceptional creativity, innovation, and passion.
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