Two credit union leaders in New York state have been named Credit Union Magazine’s 2021 Rock Stars — Kathleen Clark, senior director of community and economic development for Alternatives FCU in Ithaca, and Sheri Szemplinski, operations administrator for the CAP COM FCU’s business operations team in commercial banking in Albany.

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized as a 2021 Credit Union Rock Star,” Clark exclusively said to the New York Minute. “Of course, our work is never done on our own and I am incredibly lucky to work with an amazing team who, as our members and the community were in turmoil, did not hesitate to show up and do what we do — people helping people. It has been so inspiring to be a part of a team that came together under incredibly difficult circumstances to lean on and support one another so we could continue to be there for our members.”

Szemplinski told the New York Minute that “I was surprised when I found out the Community Relations team at CAP COM Federal Credit Union was nominating me to be a 2021 CUNA Rock Star, and even more shocked when I found out I was selected as an honoree! For years I have been volunteering with ‘Free To Be Rescue Group,’ fostering dogs and placing then into new homes. It is my passion and I really enjoy doing it. To have an employer know and understand your volunteer work is amazing! I have not only been given opportunities to volunteer in my personal life, but also with the CAP COM Cares Foundation. I love every minute of it. I can’t wait to see what the future holds and the difference I can make in people’s lives.”

The Credit Union Rock Star program, sponsored by Fiserv, recognized 31 outstanding credit union professionals and volunteers from a wide range of disciplines who use their unique strengths to advance the missions of their credit unions. This year’s class, representing 23 states and two countries, were selected for their exceptional creativity, innovation and passion.

“The 2021 class of Rock Stars is diverse in its backgrounds and strengths,” said Michelle Willits, publisher of Credit Union Magazine. “During the past year’s trying times, these Credit Union Rock Stars used their unique characteristics to serve their members, their communities, and their co-workers.”

Read Credit Union Magazine’s features on Clark here and on Szemplinksi here.