After several rounds of competition, the Miriam Rivera Lieb Emerging Leader Award was presented by the MD|DC Credit Union Association (MD|DC CUA) to Kate Brennan of Spectra Credit Union during the Association’s Annual Meeting & Convention on June 8 in Ocean City, Md.

The award honors the legacy of Miriam Rivera Lieb, who was a passionate advocate and leader in the credit union movement for more than three decades. Her passion and dedication for mentoring up and coming leaders, helped to encourage and cultivate the talents of many current credit union CEO’s earlier in their careers.

The award recognizes a credit union professional, 40 or under, who shares Lieb’s dedication to the core principles of credit unions and demonstrates the potential to be a leader.

The finalists in this year's competition were Mark Cruz, Business Development, Account Executive at Tower Federal Credit Union and Kate Brennan, Chief Operating Officer at Spectra Credit Union.

“Congratulations to both finalists,” said John Bratsakis, President and CEO, MD|DC Credit Union Association. “They both delivered thought-provoking presentations and unique insight on how credit unions can innovate. Both candidates exemplify the qualities that are needed for future credit union leadership."

Brennan will receive a professional development package, sponsored by CUNA Mutual Group, that includes:

• Executive coaching sessions

• Airfare and accommodations to visit CUNA and CUNA Mutual Group headquarters in Madison, Wisconsin

• Lunch with her CEO and MD|DC Credit Union Association President/CEO John Bratsakis

• And much more!

As the runner-up, Mark Cruz will receive an executive coaching session sponsored by the MD|DC Credit Union Association.