Judy Ensweiler

Judy Ensweiler stands out as an Unsung Hero within the Credit Union movement. Her instrumental role in initiatives within the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU), the Global Women's Leadership Network (GWLN) and Texas Credit Union League has spanned many years, showcasing her unwavering commitment and impactful efforts.

 

Judy's journey began in Barcelona when she observed the fundraising for the Worldwide Foundation at the annual event. It was modest at best where there were items for $5 and $10 to bid on. Judy suggested a live auction that would have larger items from supporters - individual and corporate – opening more pocketbooks, and commitment. It was successful and changed the trajectory of the foundation for years to come. 

 

In 2010, Judy and a group of volunteers, including Crissy Cheney, journeyed to support the work of the World Council of Credit Unions at the Busia Orphanage in Kenya, Africa. This experience made her aware of the broader possibilities of supporting the cooperative movement.

 

“Judy Ensweiler is a force of nature- and we became such dear friends through our experiences over the years. Beginning with our first efforts in Busia, I think it would be fair to say that our experience helping the children in Busia opened our eyes that we could be more than “plus ones” in supporting the principles and goals of the cooperative movement,” shared Crissy Cheney. “Judy and I both became DE’s and have continued to work together to keep purpose constant. We share a commitment to making real the possibility of People Helping People, across borders, across cultures and throughout our own communities.”

 

Judy's magnetic personality and focus on helping others have made a significant impact on everything she does. From organizing successful fundraising auctions at the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU) Annual Meetings to sharing her talent for professional training to advance women in leadership (GWLN), Judy's efforts have been both innovative and transformative.

 

Judy's engagement with the World Council of Credit Unions, GWLN and the DE Program had true impact, driving her to serve the community in the best way possible.

 

Today, Judy serves on The Colony City Council and is known as a "go-to person to get things done" by elected officials. She led the Poverty Simulation for credit unions, nonprofit leaders, and other community leaders to bring awareness to what really happens every day in her city, and really, everywhere. She is trying to bring it to city leaders as an exercise to help identify deeper priorities.

 

“Judy serves on the local food pantry board, the not-for-profit Day Care Center in town, the county United Way Board, and the city library board,” commented Dick Ensweiler, retired CEO of Texas Credit Union League. “Recognizing the large level of food insecurity, she personally started a monthly food drive (dubbed a food blessing). 50,000 pounds of food are brought to a central location each 3rd Saturday of the month where Judy calls for and organizes volunteers and is hands-on to help uncrate the food, place it into individual bags and boxes, and load it into cars. Several local pastors have heard about it and are engaging their members, as are organizations like the Young Men's Service League, local sports teams, and others.”

 

Judy Ensweiler's story is a testament to her unwavering dedication and the profound impact she has made on the Credit Union movement and her local community. Her legacy of service and leadership continues to inspire those around her. We are proud to nominate Judy Ensweiler as an Unsung Hero at America’s Credit Union Museum.