CCUA Announces 2025 Award of Excellence Winners and Hall of Fame Inductee
Honoring credit union leaders who embody the cooperative spirit and strengthen their communities
For Immediate Release
Thursday, October 30, 2025
Marlborough, MA – The Cooperative Credit Union Association (CCUA) proudly recognized six outstanding credit union leaders during the 2025 Awards of Excellence luncheon, held at APEX 2025. Honorees were celebrated across five categories: Young Professional of the Year, Professional of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, CEO of the Year, and the distinguished CCUA Hall of Fame.
The Awards of Excellence honor individuals who exemplify the values and principles of the credit union movement—champions of cooperation, innovation, and community impact.
“Every year, the Awards of Excellence shine a light on individuals whose leadership and dedication inspire progress across the credit union system,” said Ron McLean, President and CEO of the CCUA. “This year’s honorees reflect the best of our movement—innovators, mentors, and community champions whose impact will be felt for years to come.”
The luncheon gathered hundreds of credit union executives, business partners, and guests in celebration of these exceptional leaders.
The 2025 Award of Excellence Honorees and Hall of Fame Inductee:
- CEO of the Year: Devon Lyon, Central One Federal Credit Union
- Professional of the Year: Nancy Zeppa, Rhode Island Credit Union
- Young Professional of the Year: David Fielding, Metro Credit Union
- Volunteers of the Year: Theresa Palumbo, Lighthouse Credit Union; Donald “Lee” Irish, Franklin First Federal Credit Union
- Hall of Fame: Karen Duffy, Worcester Credit Union
Award recipients are chosen by a dedicated committee, with eligibility and nomination details published annually.
For more information on the 2025 honorees and to view videos from the ceremony, visit www.ccua.org/awards-excellence-2025-honorees.
About the Cooperative Credit Union Association
The Cooperative Credit Union Association (CCUA) is the leading regional trade organization, acting as the advocate for nearly 200 credit unions spanning Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. These member credit unions collectively manage assets exceeding $75 billion, serving a combined membership of over 5 million consumers. Visit www.ccua.org for more information.
Awardee Photos
Media Contact
Janelle Mullen
Vice President of Member Engagement
Email: jmullen@ccua.org
