Joann Burgrud, chief operations officer at North Star, received the Professional of the Year Award. The award honors one credit union professional each year from North or South Dakota for their contributions to advance the credit union movement in their state and the nation by helping to craft an environment that allows credit unions to grow and prosper, to better serve their members.

Bergrud has dedicated more than 20 years to North Star, where her visionary leadership and commitment to “people helping people” have made a lasting impact, Dakota Credit Union Association stated in a news release. Beginning her career as a Member Services and Marketing representative in 1998, she steadily advanced through key roles, culminating in her current position as chief operations officer. She has led numerous major initiatives, including a successful 2024 core system upgrade, and consistently drives innovation, efficiency and growth while prioritizing member satisfaction.

Mike Black, board member at North Star, was named Volunteer of the Year. This award goes to one volunteer from North or South Dakota each year who has selflessly contributed time, effort, and talent to the development of the credit union movement in their state.

Black has served on the North Star board for 22 years, including as board president since 2014. A passionate advocate for the credit union movement, he actively participates in local, regional, and national initiatives, attending events such as the MonDAK Roundtable, DakCU Summit and GAC in Washington, D.C. His dedication is highlighted by his upcoming fifth GAC trip in 2025, the association stated in its release.

Black has been instrumental in promoting philanthropy within the credit union, including leading a $100,000 pledge to the Credit Unions for Kids Micropreemie Unit at Sanford Children’s Hospital and coordinating fundraising efforts for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals with the Rugby Car Club.

Hunter Walsh, assistant vice president of Lending at Railway Credit Union in Mandan, received the Emerging Leader of the Year Award.