A Direct Line Blog

By Donya Parrish, MCU VP- Risk Management

We gathered in Missoula last week for our Power Up annual convention. It was wonderful to see people in the flesh, and even more special that we were able to finally honor both the 2020 and 2021 volunteers of the year!

The 2020 Volunteer of the Year was presented to Pete Stiles, board chair at Vocal CU in Helena. It was noted during the presentation that he “has been on the board for 24 years. He is known by the other volunteers as a person who brings people together to solve problems and find solutions.”

In that time, the credit union has been through a variety of changes including CEO changes, major building projects, mergers, charter change, and rebranding, including a name change. It’s fair to say that this volunteer has nearly “seen it all.” In addition, during his tenure, his credit union took on a fledgling bank branch and turned it around in White Sulphur Springs. Congratulations, Pete!

Harvey Urdahl was honored as the 2021 Volunteer of the Year. He has been a dedicated board member of Daniels-Sheridan FCU for the past 16 years, serving as chairman for the last 10. Harvey recently stepped down from the board, but you will appreciate that he always made time to drive from Medicine Lake to Scobey, even during winter months, to attend board meetings, annual meetings, strategic planning meetings, and NCUA exit exams. During their CEO transition, he was truly engaged with the credit union, league, and other service providers to ensure that they made the right leadership hire. Thank you for your dedication and congratulations on your award, Harvey!

What an exciting evening to be able to honor both these deserving gentlemen! I can’t wait to see who you nominate next year. As volunteers, there are many of you who would be worthy recipients.