Carol Adler: A Legacy of Service and Leadership in the Credit Union Industry
Former MMCCU President Carol Adler was recently named a Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation “Legend of the Movement.” The Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation’s Legends of The Movement recognizes and honors past and current credit union leaders in the state of Wisconsin for their service, commitment, and significant impact on The Credit Union Movement at the local and/or state level. Inductees to the Legends of the Movement include board chairs, credit union CEOs, and credit union board members. Carol was nominated by current MMCCU President David Murphy. Congrats, Carol!
Carol Adler’s career in the credit union industry spans an impressive 45 years, beginning in 1976 at Central Catholic Credit Union (now Simplicity Credit Union) and transitioning to Marshfield Medical Center Credit Union (MMCCU) in 1985.
Carol attended UW Marshfield/Wood Co. and UW Madison, initially pursuing journalism before shifting her focus to business administration.
Her entry into the credit union world came through a chance opportunity at Central Catholic Credit Union, where she was hired as a part-time teller. Her first day set the tone for her career; she was quickly thrust into the thick of operations, balancing books and learning the ropes of credit union management. Over nine years, she developed a deep understanding of the industry, leading to her hiring as President/CEO of MMCCU in 1985.
Carol witnessed and contributed to significant changes in the credit union landscape. When she started, there were 17 credit unions in the Marshfield, Wisconsin Rapids, and Stevens Point areas, with over 100 attendees at chapter meetings. Today, that number has dwindled to around six or seven due to mergers and consolidations. Statewide, Wisconsin’s credit unions have decreased from over 500 in the late 70s to nearly 100 today.
During her tenure, Carol saw a dramatic evolution in technology, transitioning from hand-posting accounts to fully automated data processing systems. She also navigated the ever-changing regulatory environment, ensuring MMCCU remained compliant and competitive.
Carol’s leadership extended beyond MMCCU. She attended numerous meetings and conferences, including at least 15 trips to Washington D.C. for government affairs meetings and many more at the state level in Madison. Her dedication to the credit union movement is evident in her service on various committees, councils, and boards, including the Wisconsin Credit Union League and the Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation, where she served nine years on each and rose to Chair of both entities.
Under her leadership, MMCCU grew from $2 million to $71 million in assets, with reserves increasing from $115,000 to just under $6 million. She looks forward to a future where the community and the nation overcome current challenges and continue to thrive.
Carol Adler’s career is a testament to her commitment to the credit union industry and her community. Her leadership, dedication, and passion have left an indelible mark on MMCCU and the broader credit union movement.