Courtesy Photo Patty Corkery presents the Michigan Credit Union League Distinguished Service Award to Barb Mills.

ALPENA — Barb Mills, chief experience officer at Alpena Alcona Area Credit Union, was recently presented with the Distinguished Service Award from the Michigan Credit Union League.

The Distinguished Service Award celebrates a lifetime of achievement for demonstrating exceptional dedication to the credit union industry over the course of their career.

Mills’ career began shortly after high school as a teller with Calcite Credit Union. Over the years, she worked in various departments until 2003 when she was named chief executive officer of CCU. Mills served in that role until 2023 when CCU merged with AAACU, and she transitioned to the role of chief experience officer.

In addition to her dedication to the credit union industry, Mills is also very community-oriented, serving on multiple boards and volunteering her time with many community organizations. She has also been instrumental in various efforts with the Blue Ox Chapter of Credit Unions to make an impact with the MCUL and for credit union members throughout Northeast Michigan.

“I am humbled and honored to receive this prestigious award,” Mills said. “I could not have done this without the support of my family and my credit union family by my side. I encourage all to be a part of this great movement, whether it be as an employee or as a member.”

AAACU wants to congratulate Mills on being the MCUL 2023 Distinguished Service Award winner and is proud to have her as part of their team to bring her passion for the credit union industry to the AAACU employees and its members.