Board of Directors
Bill Kamke
Chairman
Bill Kamke has served N.E.W. Credit Union for several years, working collaboratively with staff and the board to represent the interests of all members. His priorities include fairness, fiscal responsibility, and access to comprehensive financial services at reasonable rates. With over 30 years of experience as a business owner, Bill contributes valuable financial expertise and sound judgment. His involvement with numerous community organizations has provided insight into evolving community needs. Bill is committed to regulatory compliance and financial stability, helping ensure the continued strength and security of the credit union for its members.
Ken Harter
Vice Chairman
Ken Harter values N.E.W. Credit Union for the member/owner control, the products and services tailored specifically to members’ needs, the lower-cost services and higher-return investment opportunities provided to members compared to for-profit commercial institutions, and the focus on and support of the communities in which members live and work. These are the reasons belonging to a credit union appeals to him, why he has enjoyed serving as a volunteer director of N.E.W. Credit Union for years, and why he is willing to continue serving in that capacity.
Diane LaPlant
Secretary
Diane LaPlant has been an active participant in the credit union movement for more than 53 years. She and her husband became credit union members in 1973, beginning a lifelong commitment to the cooperative financial philosophy. Twenty-seven years ago, Diane joined the credit union profession as a teller and advanced through positions including loan officer, mortgage loan officer, and Interim President before retiring. Following her retirement, she was elected to the Board of Directors of Badger Credit Union in Peshtigo, where she continued to serve members through volunteer leadership. After Badger Credit Union merged with NEW Credit Union in Oconto Falls five years ago, Diane remained on the Board of Directors and continues to support the credit union’s mission of serving its members and communities. Diane and her husband are the proud parents of three children and grandparents of four grandchildren. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.
Jeff Behnke
Director
Jeff Behnke is passionate about helping others and believes strongly in the positive impact credit unions have on people’s lives. He is an effective communicator who enjoys learning and applying new knowledge in meaningful ways. Jeff values the opportunity to support others while contributing to an organization centered on service and community. Serving on the board gives him a sense of purpose reminiscent of George Bailey, and being a credit union member feels, to him, like a real-life It’s a Wonderful Life.
Gina Cramer
Treasurer
Gina Cramer is a licensed real estate broker and the owner of Gina Cramer Realty, LLC, a locally owned agency established on January 1, 2003. With more than 28 years of experience in the real estate industry, Gina is known for her integrity, market knowledge, and commitment to personalized service. Deeply rooted in Northeast Wisconsin, she is a long-time member of NEW Credit Union and is proud to serve on the NEW Credit Union Board, reflecting her dedication to community involvement. Gina leads a family-driven business, working alongside her daughter, Birdee, and her sister, Crystal.