Each year, California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions honor distinguished industry leaders and volunteers during the Leagues’ REACH Conference. These awards include:
2026 Credit Union Awards
The Credit Union Awards are now closed.
For questions regarding the Credit Union Awards program, please contact Cindy Tullues-Peterson.
LEO H. SHAPIRO LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
This is California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions’ highest honor, recognizing excellence in credit union philosophy and a lifetime of contributions to the California credit union movement. It is named after Leo H. Shapiro, father of the California credit union movement and founder of the League.
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
Recipients of the Distinguished Service Award are honored for service to the credit union community outside the usual scope of employment at a credit union, and beyond the scope of their networks.
J. ALVIN GEORGE OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER AWARD
This award honors significant contributions by people who serve credit unions in volunteer capacities, such as a director or committee member. It was renamed in 2013 in honor of the long-time credit union volunteer, J. Alvin George, who passed away that same year.
TOMORROW’S STAR AWARD
The Tomorrow’s Star Award recognizes the achievements by young credit union professionals age 35 and under.
SOCIAL IMPACT AWARD
Recognizes individuals and credit unions that demonstrate an unyielding dedication to building stronger communities and improving members’ lives through actions such as financial education, wellness, social responsibility, mentorship, and/or diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.
SHAPIRO: KIM BANNAN ETERNAL FLAME AWARDS
These awards recognize efforts that contribute to the success and future of Shapiro Group credit unions, and are named after the League’s late vice president of credit union development and research and information.
NETWORK AWARDS
Recognizes individuals and local Networks for their extraordinary impact and commitment to professional development, advocacy and collaboration in the Networks and the local community of credit unions. Contact Elise Schexnayder for information about the Network Awards.
ADVOCACY/PAC AWARDS
Winners are recognized for their immense contributions to credit union advocacy. This category is not peer-nominated, and recipients are selected by the advocacy team.
For questions regarding the Credit Union Awards program, please contact Cindy Tullues-Peterson.
