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Jen Burke working at the Madison Area Food Pantry Garden.
Last week, I participated in the National Credit Union Foundation’s Credit Union Development Educator (CUDE) program in Madison, Wisconsin. After 7½ years working in this industry, I’m proud to say that I’m officially a “DE.” Now that I’m part of the DE family, I want to share why I believe this is a truly career-changing experience—and why you should consider participating, too.
Before heading to Madison, I didn’t know much about the DE program. I’ll admit, I was nervous walking into a classroom filled with 50 strangers I’d be working alongside for five long days. One of the first things we were told when the program began was to “trust the process.” I’m so glad I did.
Those 50 strangers soon became my friends. Together, we learned about our industry’s rich history, bonded over its purpose and mission, and shared stories of how credit unions across the country are uplifting the lives of their members. When you come together around the principle of People Helping People, it’s easy to form fast bonds and allow yourself to be open—and sometimes, even vulnerable.
I had heard from other DEs that the curriculum would deepen my appreciation for the credit union difference. They weren’t wrong! As I collaborated with others and learned how to better leverage my credit union “superpowers,” I felt a renewed sense of purpose and a stronger desire not only to continue making meaningful contributions to our movement but also to help others do the same.
As part of the curriculum, participants were given the opportunity to volunteer at a local nonprofit in Madison. Given how important the Campaign for Ending Hunger is to me—both personally and professionally—you can imagine my excitement when I learned I’d be spending a few hours at the Madison Area Food Pantry Gardens. The garden provides fresh produce to food pantries across the greater Madison area. My crew and I spent the morning removing weeds and overgrown plants to prepare plots for seeding. It was hard work, but deeply rewarding to give back in this way.
There’s so much I want to share about being part of “the best class ever,” but as I quickly discovered, the magic of the DE experience is best uncovered firsthand. The course is designed intentionally, and it would be a disservice to future participants if I revealed too much and spoiled the discovery process.
If you’ve been thinking about participating in this program—don’t hesitate! The National Credit Union Foundation will offer DE training four times in 2026, and sessions always fill up quickly. While registration hasn’t officially opened yet, the training dates are available on the Foundation’s website. A virtual training option also is available. Consider reaching out to CUDE@ncuf.coop to get added to the notification list when registration goes live!
And if you’re already a fellow DE, please drop me a line (jburke@mainecul.org). As part of my homework, I’d love to help organize a gathering for our DEs in the new year. I also think there are opportunities to connect regionally with DE peers across the New England states.
Becoming a DE reminded me why I fell in love with the credit union movement in the first place: we exist to make a difference in people’s lives. The program doesn’t just teach—it transforms. It reconnects you with your purpose, your peers, and the profound impact our collective work has on communities everywhere. If you’re ready to reignite your passion and see the credit union difference through a new lens, I can’t recommend the DE experience enough.