Synergent Blog

Synergent’s Mitch Ryan addresses the Class of 2026.

Synergent’s Mitch Ryan, Vice President of Information Systems, recently completed America’s Credit Unions’ Credit Union Management School, marking the culmination of a rigorous three-year executive education program designed to prepare credit union professionals for leadership.

Credit Union Management School is the credit union movement’s longest-running high-level educational program. Held in Madison, Wisconsin, the program combines instruction from University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Business professors, credit union leaders, and industry experts. Over three years, participants build their knowledge and skills in areas including financial management, strategic planning, leadership development, compliance, cybersecurity, advocacy, risk management, and innovation. They also have the opportunity to learn from and build relationships with credit union professionals from across the country.

The experience extends well beyond time in the classroom. Participants complete exams and applied projects throughout the program, with the third year requiring a comprehensive strategic plan and oral presentation. Those who successfully complete the full three-year curriculum earn the Certified Credit Union Executive (CCUE) designation.

In addition to completing the program, Ryan also served as president of this year’s 69^th graduating class, becoming the first participant from his home state of Maine to hold that role.

“I am incredibly proud to have represented Maine throughout this journey,” said Ryan. “The conversations, shared challenges, encouragement, and friendships helped me grow both personally and professionally. I returned home with a broader perspective, a deeper appreciation for the credit union movement, and genuine excitement about applying what I learned to positively impact our movement here in Maine and in communities beyond our state.”