2026 legacy in motion award Application Form

The Legacy in Motion Award recognizes individuals whose leadership, compassion, and vision have meaningfully advanced financial education and strengthened the financial well-being of the communities they serve. Named in the memory and honor of Trysh Olson, a passionate advocate and architect of collaborative financial education, this award reflects her belief that education is most powerful when rooted in service, partnership, and measurable community impact.

The Legacy in Motion Award honors professionals who exemplify:
- A deep and sustained commitment to financial education access and equity.
- Excellence in program development, outreach, and advocacy.
- Leadership that inspires collaboration across credit unions, educators, and community organizations.
- A demonstrated ability to translate financial education into positive real-world outcomes.

Nominees should show clear evidence of impact beyond their institution, including innovative educational initiatives, community partnerships, or programs that have expanded access to financial knowledge for underserved or vulnerable populations.

Award Criteria

Eligible nominees will demonstrate:
- Leadership in advancing financial education within their credit union and community.
- Advocacy for lifelong financial learning across diverse audiences.
- Measurable outcomes or sustained impact resulting from their efforts.
- Alignment with CUFEN’s mission and the credit union philosophy of "People Helping People".

Award Details

The award recipient will receive a $500 charitable donation, awarded in their name, to be given to a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization aligned with financial education or community empowerment. The award recipient will also recieve free registration to the 2027 CUFEN Conference.

 Each nomination must include:
- Nominee information
- Credit union affiliation
- A written statement from the nominee describing their work and impact
- Photos and stories related to this award will be shared on our social media platforms and     through other communications. 

All applications will be reviewed by the CUFEN Board of Directors, and the award will be formally presented during our CUFEN Conference Awards Night.

Legacy Statement

The Legacy in Motion Award is more than recognition - it is a continuation of Trysh’s life’s work. Each recipient carries forward her legacy by ensuring that financial education remains intentional, inclusive, and transformative, empowering individuals and communities to build stronger financial futures.

By signing the space below, you are certifying that all information is correct and that you are the person completing this application. I confirm that all information provided is accurate, attestable, and may be shared by CUFEN for award consideration and recognition purposes. 

CUFEN is committed to equal opportunity and education and does discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, marital status, or any other protected class.