Pusateri named 2022 Credit Union Hero of the Year

Mary Ann Pusateri, CEO at Partnership Financial Credit Union in Morton Grove, Ill., is Credit Union Magazine’s 2022 Credit Union Hero of the Year, sponsored by Symitar.

“Mary Ann Pusateri's career exemplifies how credit unions' unique cooperative abilities lead to strong credit unions and communities," says Michelle Willits, publisher of Credit Union Magazine. “We congratulate Mary Ann, as well as this year's other heroes, on being recognized.”

This year’s Credit Union Heroes create cultures of caring, prioritize member needs, promote financial well-being, and unite credit union voices. 

Pusateri demonstrated that by forging relationships with local credit union CEOs that resulted in a powerful partnership. By joining forces, the credit unions were able to keep staff from losing their jobs, enhance the member experience, and remain a staple in the community. 

“We saved a lot on the economies of scale,” Pusateri says. “It allowed us to create a better website and buy a better mobile banking app and home banking system. Most of the savings went back to members.” 

It was a true partnership—thus the name Partnership Financial Credit Union.  

Pusateri also encourages collaboration by forming a women’s leadership group. 

Credit Union Heroes demonstrate leadership through community initiatives, movement advocacy, exceptional member service, and a dedication to credit unions' people-helping-people philosophy.

Also named as 2022 Credit Union Heroes are:

• Marshall Boutwell, president/CEO at $775 million asset Peach State Federal Credit Union, Lawrenceville, Ga.
• Robyn Cousin, board vice chair at $3.5 billion asset Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, St. Paul, Minn.
• Cheryl DeBoer, president/CEO at Advia Credit Union, Kalamazoo, Mich.

Read about Pusateri and the other heroes at news.cuna.org/cuhero.