2025 CUDE Graduates

Six Dakota credit union professionals graduated from the transformational CUDE program in 2025.

Stephanie Barton

The Credit Union Development Education (CUDE) program, offered through the National Credit Union Foundation, continues to inspire, challenge, and empower credit union professionals from across the Dakotas and beyond. Known for its powerful mix of collaboration, storytelling, and purpose-driven leadership training, the CUDE experience transforms the way participants view their roles within the credit union movement.
 
This year, six Dakota credit union professionals proudly joined the ranks of CUDE graduates, each walking away with newfound inspiration, deeper understanding, and lasting connections.
 
“Participating in the CUDE training was a truly enriching experience,” shared Stephanie Barton of Black Hills Federal Credit Union (BHFCU). “I not only deepened my understanding of the credit union difference and cooperative principles, but also connected with passionate professionals who are committed to financial well-being for all. The program was engaging, insightful, and left me inspired to bring meaningful change to my credit union and community.”

---

Kylee Lemieux and Kaelixte Wagner

For Kaelixte Wagner, also of BHFCU, the program was nothing short of transformational. “Participating in the CUDE program was a transformational experience that redefined my understanding of leadership and deepened my connection to the credit union movement,” she said. “More than a professional development opportunity, CUDE was a journey of personal growth, shared purpose, and renewed commitment to people helping people. Throughout the program, I was challenged to think with intention, to listen with empathy, and to lead with authenticity. CUDE empowered me to embrace my role as a changemaker and gave me the confidence to lead with conviction. Most importantly, it reaffirmed the heart of our movement: people helping people.”
 
Kylee Lemieux of North Star Community Credit Union described her experience as a reminder of the larger purpose behind the work. “My CUDE journey changed the way I see our movement,” she said. “It reminded me that while we may be one credit union, we’re part of something much larger a community of passionate people dedicated to improving lives through cooperation and compassion. If you’re looking for confidence, inspiration, and the tools to make a lasting impact in your credit union and community, CUDE is where you’ll find it.”

---

Taylor Anderson

For Taylor Anderson of University Federal Credit Union, the CUDE experience offered an invaluable blend of education and connection. “I highly recommend DE Training to any credit union professional who would like to deepen their knowledge and appreciation for the CU system and its history,” she said. “You will make lifelong connections with CU professionals from around the country in a variety of roles. The blend of differing communities and cultures makes for a week full of learning and fun!”

​​Emily Griffith, BHFCU, echoed that sense of purpose and connection. “It was an incredible week of growth, learning, and reconnecting with the core purpose of the Credit Union movement people helping people. I’m grateful for the new perspectives, lasting friendships, and unforgettable experiences shared with an inspiring group of like-minded professionals.”

---

Emily Griffith

​​And Drew Scharmer summed it up simply and powerfully: “My time at CUDE was nothing like anything I had experienced in the past. I have gone to conferences and training trips in the past, but CUDE was a unique and fulfilling experience and I believe everyone with the Credit Union passion should attend this event.”

​The CUDE program remains a cornerstone of leadership development within the credit union movement, continuing to shape professionals who embody the cooperative spirit and carry forward the mission of “people helping people.” Congratulations to our 2025 CUDE graduates your dedication, enthusiasm, and vision continue to strengthen the credit union difference across the Dakotas and beyond.

---

Drew Scharmer

If you’re inspired by these stories and ready to take your own CUDE journey, registration for upcoming CUDE sessions is now open! Plus, the DakCU Foundation offers scholarships to help credit union professionals in North and South Dakota attend this transformative program. Don’t miss the opportunity to grow personally, professionally, and cooperatively—apply today and become part of the movement that changes lives.

---