First Alliance Credit Union is proud to recognize Danielle Sommerfeldt, CUDE, AVP of Business Development & Lending, for completing the three-year America’s Credit Unions Business Lending Certification School and earning the Certified Credit Union Business Lending Professional (CBLP)™ designation.
Offered through America’s Credit Unions in partnership with the UW–Madison School of Business, the program provides advanced training in commercial and business lending, including credit analysis, regulatory knowledge, and best practices for serving businesses effectively.
"Danielle’s dedication to learning and professional growth reflects the commitment we value at First Alliance Credit Union. Completing this rigorous three-year program and earning the Certified Credit Union Business Lending Professional designation is an outstanding accomplishment. We are proud of the expertise Danielle continues to bring to our business lending efforts and the support that knowledge brings to the businesses and entrepreneurs we serve." said Andrea Allen, CUDE, Executive VP/Chief Revenue Officer at First Alliance.
Sommerfeldt shared, “It was a great experience to connect with other professionals and deepen my understanding of business lending and I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue growing in this area and to bring that knowledge back to better support the businesses and entrepreneurs we serve."
First Alliance’s approach is rooted in its history. Founded in 1932 during the Great Depression by a group of local community members including a schoolteacher and seven firefighters seeking to support one another, the credit union continues to prioritize keeping money local by supporting families, businesses, and long-term community strength.
Sommerfeldt’s achievement reflects First Alliance Credit Union’s ongoing commitment to investing in its team and strengthening its ability to provide knowledgeable, relationship-focused support to local businesses and entrepreneurs across Southeast Minnesota.
First Alliance Credit Union was founded in 1932 in Rochester, MN, by seven firefighters and a teacher, creating a financial lifeline for municipal employees during the Great Depression. Today, we serve over 22,000 members across 14 Southeast Minnesota counties of Blue Earth, Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Le Sueur, Mower, Nicollet, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, Waseca, or Winona counties, offering personalized financial advice, trusted resources, and innovative lending solutions. Rooted in community, we remain committed to helping our members make smart financial decisions through every stage of life.
America's Credit Unions is the unified national voice for credit unions, advocating for and advancing an environment where credit unions can thrive. Formed on January 1, 2024, through the merger of the Credit Union National Association and the National Association of Federally-Insured Credit Unions, the organization builds on more than 150 combined years of support for the credit union industry. America’s Credit Unions champions innovation, financial stability, and community empowerment to help credit unions better serve members across the country.