NuMark 2022 President’s Club Award Winners
February 20, 2023 – NuMark Credit Union is proud to announce the 2022 President’s Club winners. Congratulations to Back Office Manager of the Year, Tracy Szendzial. Front Office Employee of the Year, Hector Ochoa Jr. Front Office Manager of the Year, Paula Ilkanic. Back Office Employee of the Year, Jessica R. Smith. Rookie of the Year Award Celene Alvarado, Training Specialist.
“These NuMark Credit Union team members were chosen for their hard work, dedication, and outstanding service to our members,” said Lloyd Fredendall, President and CEO of NuMark Credit Union. “NuMark is owned and operated by our members, the very people we serve. The philosophy of “people helping people” is the heart of everything we do. We are happy to recognize these employees who go above and beyond to serve our members.”
Tracy has been with NuMark for almost 9 years. She became the Card Service Manager in March of 2021 and has been managing the card process during the NorthStar and NuMark merger. Tracy has proven to be an exceptional leader at NuMark, always striving to make the members and staff experience the best it can be.
Hector has just celebrated his 4-year anniversary with NuMark this February. His passion to help our members is reflected in his performance every day. He lives out our Mission Statement not only at work but also in the community. He believes in helping our members and has been working hard with the Emerging Markets Committee to help expand our efforts to help the underserved.
Paula Ilkanic has been with the credit union for over 30 years and her commitment to NuMark is reflected in her work. She has done an outstanding job at leading the Call Center team. Paula is dedicated to supporting her team and is always available to help. She is dedicated to doing whatever it takes to help the Credit Union. Paula has a high level of resiliency which is hard to find. NuMark wouldn’t be the same without her.
Jessica Smith has been with NuMark for 5 years. She has had the opportunity to fill several roles which have given her unique insights and have allowed her to help others. Jessica serves as the DEI Educational Committee Chair and is dedicated to ensuring NuMark is a place to learn and grow. She truly embodies the mission of NuMark Credit Union to enrich the financial lives of our members.
In addition to selecting the President’s Club members, NuMark Credit Union awards one of its newest team members with the “Rookie of the Year” award. This award goes to the employee that has been with NuMark less than one year and is noted for their outstanding achievements and contributions to the team.
Celene Alvarado recently joined the NuMark Training Specialist team and was this year’s recipient. She has a background in both banking and education. Her previous experience has served her well in this new role. Celene is naturally engaging and encouraging in training. She cares about the success of her trainees and NuMark is fortunate to have her on their team.
NuMark Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative. Serving those who live or work in Northeastern Illinois and Northwest Indiana. They have been serving members for over 65 years. See NuMark Credit Union for auto loans, mortgages, checking accounts, business services and more. For more information call (815) 729-3211 or visit numarkcu.org.
