Several Recognition Awards will be presented to New York credit union professionals and volunteers during EXCEL 19, the New York Credit Union Association’s Annual Meeting & Convention. Today’s featured award is the Outstanding Professional Award, which honors professionals who have a true passion for credit unions and who inspire others with their hard work, dedication and success.

The Association’s Awards Committee has selected Alexa Bennett, AVP of marketing, research & development at Northern Credit Union, as this year’s Outstanding Professional.

Bennett has worked for the credit union for nearly eight years and is a former member of the Association’s Young Professionals Commission.

While Bennett’s role centers on marketing, her reach extends far beyond the marketing department. Bennett is known for lending her time and expertise to support all teams within Northern, and she frequently provides financial education sessions to youths and young adults. She’s worked extensively with other departments at her credit union to develop programs and products that have helped boost auto lending, attract new talent, engage members and promote new technologies.

From a public relations standpoint, Bennett spearheaded a partnership with a local ABC affiliate to develop an “Ask the Expert Series,” where financial advice is provided by one of Northern’s experts.

Outside of the credit union, Bennett serves on the board of the Marketing Association of Credit Unions, and she volunteers on the boards and committees of several local nonprofits, including at Watertown’s Urban Mission, which provides programs to feed, clothe, shelter, and provide aid to those in need.