MnCUN Director of Engagement Honored with AACUC Commitment to Change Young Professionals Leadership Award
Photo: MnCUN Director of Engagement Ben Hering
“ABEP is extremely appreciative for the depth of knowledge and level of commitment that Ben has brought to bear on the credit union initiative. I am honored to be taking this journey with him.
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SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Ben Hering, Director of Engagement for the Minnesota Credit Union Network (MnCUN), was honored with an African American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC) Commitment to Change Young Professional Leadership Award last week during a virtual ceremony.
The awards ceremony is part of the AACUC’s Commitment to Change: Credit Unions Unite Against Racism initiative. The initiative focuses on valuing the 8th Cooperative Principle of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; advocating for financial
inclusion, closing the racial wealth gap and fostering community involvement. Each honoree was selected considering the initiative’s “Be Bold. Be Mindful. Be Brave.” appeal to credit union industry professionals.
Hering received the Brave Award for his allyship and shining a light on the needs of – as well as fighting for financial justice for – the Minneapolis community members after the murder of George Floyd.
“We are very proud of Ben for his accomplishments and thankful for his commitment to advancing economic equality and financial well-being for all Minnesotans,” said MnCUN President and CEO Mark Cummins.
As the Director of Engagement for the Minnesota Credit Union Network, Hering guides advocacy, awareness and regulatory assistance for credit union members through facilitation of educational programming, product and service project management and providing avenues for credit union collaboration.
He is currently working closely with the Association for Black Economic Power to create the state’s only Black-led credit union. A dedicated community volunteer, Hering is a Filene Research Institute i3 alumnus, led the development of Minnesota’s first bicycle loan program, and, as an artist, has paintings installed in several Minneapolis local businesses.
Hering graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology. He has been recognized as the Emerging Leader of the Year by the Minneapolis Regional Chamber, a Credit Union Rockstar by Credit Union Magazine and a Next Top Credit Union Executive Finalist by CUES.
Upon accepting the award, Hering said, “As we continue this work, let these moments be our bridge. Let today resonate with ripples of hope, for change and toward a brighter tomorrow.”
About the Minnesota Credit Union Network
The Minnesota Credit Union Network is the statewide trade association that works to ensure the success, growth, and vitality of Minnesota credit unions. With over $36 billion in assets, Minnesota credit unions are local, trusted financial cooperatives that serve 2 million members at 400 branch locations around the state. As not-for-profit institutions, credit unions give back to the communities they serve. For more information, visit mncun.org.
Julia Miller
Director of Communications
Minnesota Credit Union Network
(612) 380-1433
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