Celebrating the Induction of Brian Prunty and Paul Grinde as Legends of the Movement

            

Brian Prunty & Paul Grinde

We are proud to share that Brian Prunty, former CoVantage President/CEO, and Paul Grinde, former CoVantage EVP and later Community Development Officer of CoVantage Credit Union, were nominated and have been inducted as “Legends of the Movement” by The Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation. This prestigious award honors individuals who have made extraordinary and lasting contributions to The Credit Union Movement in Wisconsin and beyond, embodying the cooperative spirit and the philosophy of "People Helping People." 

Brian Prunty served as President and CEO of CoVantage Credit Union for over 26 years, from June 1990 to January 2017. Under his leadership, the credit union grew from one location with 36 employees and $67 million in assets to 14 offices, 360 employees, and nearly $1.35 billion in assets. Brian's commitment to putting members first and his pivotal roles in advocacy and various board positions have left a lasting impact on the credit union movement. His dedication and leadership have positively influenced the financial well-being of countless members and the growth of credit unions. Upon receiving his award, Brian expressed his gratitude for this recognition, highlighting the collective efforts of the dedicated board members and employees who made this achievement possible. 

Paul Grinde began his career with CoVantage Credit Union in 1995, serving as Executive Vice President and later as Community Development Officer until 2019. Paul's dedication to community service and his innovative approach has helped countless credit union and non-profit professionals build creative solutions for unbanked and underserved populations across the country. He played a crucial role in obtaining CDFI certification for CoVantage and assisted other credit unions in becoming Community Development Credit Unions. Paul's mentorship and commitment to improving lives has inspired many within the credit union movement. In his response to the recognition, Paul emphasized the importance of the collective efforts of friends, coworkers, and credit union members in achieving this honor. 

Please join us in celebrating Brian Prunty and Paul Grinde for their remarkable contributions and their well-deserved recognition as Legends of the Movement. Their legacy of service and dedication continues to inspire us all. 

For more information from the Wisconsin Credit Union Foundation about this award visit: https://www.theleague.coop/solutions/the-foundation/support-the-foundation/legends-of-the-movement. 

 
Lindsey Mueller, Director of Advocacy & Financial Education, CoVantage Credit Union
Paul Grinde, former CoVantage EVP/Community Development Officer
Charlie Zanayed, President/CEO, CoVantage Credit Union
Presenting a CoVantage Cares Grant to SS Mary & Hyacinth Parish Community Fund



Mary Prunty, Chief Financial Officer, CoVantage Credit Union (Daughter of Brian Prunty)
Brian Prunty, former CoVantage President/CEO



Paul Grinde, former CoVantage EVP/Community Development Officer
Brian Prunty, former CoVantage President/CEO