Davenport University has appointed Julie Leonard, president and chief executive officer of Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU), to its Board of Trustees. Leonard brings more than three decades of leadership experience in the financial services industry and a deep commitment to community engagement and education.

Leonard assumed her role as President and CEO at LMCU in 2024. Prior to joining the organization, she served as executive vice president and chief financial officer at Suncoast Credit Union in Tampa, Florida, where she held leadership positions for more than 25 years. Earlier in her career, she worked at Citizens Bank in Flint, Michigan.

A University of Michigan alumna, Leonard earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus in accounting, followed by a master’s degree in business administration from the University of South Florida. She is a licensed certified public accountant in the state of Florida and holds the Certified Credit Union Executive™ and Credit Union Development Education™ designations.

“Davenport is incredibly fortunate to welcome Julie Leonard to our Board of Trustees,” said Davenport University President Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D. “Her financial expertise, community focus and leadership experience will be invaluable as we continue to prepare students for the ever-changing demands of today’s workforce.”

In addition to her extensive professional experience, Leonard has been an active leader in the credit union movement nationwide. She was appointed to a U.S. Treasury committee to help advance the credit union industry and currently serves on the Heart of West Michigan United Way Finance Committee.

“I am honored to join Davenport University’s Board of Trustees,” said Leonard. “Davenport’s commitment to developing strong, future-focused professionals aligns with my own passion for leadership and service. I look forward to contributing to the university’s mission and helping shape opportunities for students across Michigan and beyond.”

Leonard will participate in her first Davenport University Board of Trustees meeting in December 2025.