DakCU Inducts Two Leaders into 2026 Hall of Fame

Dakota Credit Union Association inducted two leaders into its Hall of Fame during the 2026 Annual Summit in recognition of their lifelong impact on the credit union movement. 

The Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) proudly inducted two exceptional leaders, Pat Murtha and Karla Clark, into the Dakota Credit Union Hall of Fame during the 2026 DakCU Annual Summit. The Hall of Fame honor represents a lifetime achievement recognition and is the most prestigious award presented by DakCU, recognizing individuals whose careers have made a lasting impact on the credit union movement across the Dakotas.

Pat Murtha’s credit union journey began in 1987 when she accepted the manager position at Mitchell Area Federal Credit Union, despite initially knowing very little about the credit union industry. What she quickly discovered was an organization facing significant financial challenges and uncertainty about its future. Through determination, resilience, and visionary leadership, Murtha transformed the struggling credit union into a strong, thriving institution.

​During her 38-year career, she modernized operations, expanded services, strengthened financial performance, and guided the credit union into a new facility before its successful merger with Dakotaland Federal Credit Union in 2013. Following the merger, she continued serving members and mentoring staff as Branch Manager in Mitchell for another 11 years. Beyond her own organization, Murtha was a passionate advocate for the credit union movement, serving in leadership roles across South Dakota and traveling to Washington, D.C., to advocate on behalf of credit unions nationally. Deeply committed to her community, she also dedicated countless hours to volunteerism, youth programs, and Special Olympics. Her Hall of Fame induction recognizes a remarkable career built on perseverance, leadership, and service to others.

Click here to view the Hall of Fame video highlighting Pat Murtha.

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​Karla Clark’s 31-year career reflects a lifetime of steady leadership and dedication to strengthening the Dakota credit union movement behind the scenes. After beginning her career at Fargo VA Federal Credit Union, Clark joined ProData, the league’s data processing division, where she quickly advanced into the role of Chief Financial Officer.

​Throughout her decades of service, she played a vital role in many of the organization’s most significant milestones, including the consolidation of the North Dakota and South Dakota credit union leagues into what is now DakCU. She also helped develop the Healthcare Trust serving both states, creating long-term value for credit unions and their employees. Known for her exceptional attention to detail, institutional knowledge, and quiet leadership style, Clark became a trusted mentor and resource for colleagues across the organization. Her willingness to support others, preserve organizational continuity, and lead with humility earned the respect and admiration of countless peers throughout the credit union community. Even as she prepared for retirement, Clark continued stepping into additional responsibilities to ensure a smooth transition for future leaders. Her Hall of Fame induction honors a legacy of integrity, dedication, and unwavering service to the credit union movement.

Click here to view the Hall of Fame video highlighting Karla Clark.

Together, Pat Murtha and Karla Clark exemplify the credit union philosophy of “people helping people.” Their leadership, advocacy, and commitment to serving members, communities, and fellow professionals have left a lasting mark on the credit union industry throughout the Dakotas and beyond. DakCU congratulates both inductees and thanks them for their extraordinary contributions and years of service!

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