Naperville, IL – June 2, 2026 – After more than 35 years of dedicated service to the Illinois credit union system, Melanie Murphy has officially retired from her role as Executive Director of the Illinois Credit Union Foundation, leaving an enduring legacy of leadership, mentorship, and service to credit unions across Illinois.
Since joining the Illinois Credit Union League in 1990, Murphy has played a pivotal role in shaping programs and initiatives that strengthen credit unions, support community financial education, and cultivate future leaders. Her work with Young Professionals programs and initiatives has launched the careers of many credit union professionals who continue to be active leaders in the state today. As Executive Director of the Illinois Credit Union Foundation, she guided scholarships, grants, and educational programs that promote financial well-being across Illinois. Murphy has also served nationally, including leadership roles with the National Credit Union Foundation and the State Credit Union Foundation Network. In recognition of her contributions, she was named a 2020 Credit Union Rock Star, a national acknowledgment of her impact on the industry.
“Melanie’s dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on the Illinois credit union community,” said Libby Calderone, President & CEO of the Illinois Credit Union League. “Her passion for mentorship, financial education, and developing future leaders will continue to influence the industry for years to come.”
The Illinois Credit Union Foundation is pleased to announce that Sandy Ramage-Kallal will succeed Murphy as Executive Director. Ramage-Kallal currently serves as Senior Director of Member Resources at the Illinois Credit Union League and brings more than a decade of experience from previous roles at 1st MidAmerica Credit Union, where she worked as a Teller, Community Relations Representative, Training and Development Manager, and Project Manager. She has also been an active volunteer with the Burnett Chapter Board, served on ICUL's YPA committee, and represented Illinois as a GAC Crasher.
“Sandy’s combination of hands-on credit union experience, leadership skills, and commitment to community engagement make her the ideal person to lead the Foundation into its next chapter,” Calderone said. “We are confident she will continue the legacy of excellence and service established by Melanie.”
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About the Illinois Credit Union Foundation
The Illinois Credit Union Foundation (ICU Foundation) is the charitable arm of the Illinois credit union movement and the outward expression of its “People Helping People” philosophy. Since 1978, the Foundation has provided more than $4 million in support to Illinois credit unions and their communities through professional development scholarships, small credit union assistance, financial wellness initiatives, grants, and cooperative partnerships dedicated to improving financial well-being across the state.
