Fox Cities News

Laurie Butz, CEO of Capital Credit Union and a 1997 graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh (UWO), has been named a recipient of the university’s 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award. Butz currently leads one of northeast Wisconsin’s largest financial institutions, managing more than $2.7 billion in assets, 24 branches, and 480 employees across 18 counties.

Reflecting on her education at UWO, Butz said, “The programs through my MBA were relevant, thought-provoking, and immediately applicable. The ones that had the most impact on me were those where we were asked to go out into the community—interviewing individuals, researching local businesses or writing papers on specific companies. These experiences were incredibly formative.”

Butz emphasized the value of experiential learning during her studies. “Seeing firsthand how the concepts we were learning in class were being applied by real people and organizations made the material come alive in a way that textbooks simply couldn’t,” she said. “They opened doors by helping me build relationships and develop a deeper appreciation for the challenges and opportunities faced by leaders in our community.”

Her involvement with UWO continued after graduation when she taught undergraduate and graduate business courses from 2006 to 2016. She covered topics such as Human Resources, Organizational Behavior, Change Management, and Benefits Administration.

Barbara Rau, former College of Business dean and professor at UWO, commented on Butz’s impact as an instructor: “She was a fantastic role model for students. Students loved the real-world experience and examples she brought to the classroom as well as her exceptional, positive attitude about the profession.”

Rau added that Butz was open about workplace challenges: “She was very candid about the obstacles she has faced. One student said they were struck by Butz’s definition of a ‘caring leader’ versus a ‘soft leader.’ The student said, ‘(Butz) demonstrated that empathy is a great asset to gain perspective of what people are going through, but also that an executive cannot lose their ability to help the individual by failing to challenge them.’”

Butz spoke about evolving her leadership style over time: “I came to realize that, as a results-focused leader, I was often driving so hard toward outcomes that I wasn’t taking time to truly enjoy the journey,” she said. “I also learned the value of seeing everyone you lead as ‘someone’s precious child,’ a concept I took from my mentor Bob Chapman. That allowed me to ask if I was showing up in a caring way during the pursuit of results. Today, I intentionally pause to appreciate the process, the relationships and the moments of progress along the way. This shift has made me a more present, caring, connected and appreciative leader.”

Since becoming president and CEO at Capital Credit Union in 2021, Butz has implemented changes including restructuring leadership teams and focusing on employee engagement while achieving significant cost savings without staff reductions.

In addition to her professional work, Butz has served on boards for several nonprofit organizations such as YMCA of the Fox Cities and United Way Fox Cities. In 2024 alone she volunteered over 140 hours.

Tim Bergstrom, CEO of Bergstrom Automotive who worked with Butz on United Way initiatives stated: “She dedicates countless hours using her talents and always with a smile and positive attitude,” he said. “Laurie approaches every endeavor with energy and a genuine desire to make a difference. She fosters an environment where innovation thrives and every individual feels valued. Her ability to inspire her team is truly commendable.”

Bergstrom described her as having “drive, integrity, and service” which make her both an effective CEO and respected community leader.

Butz’s achievements have been recognized through multiple awards including UWO’s Beta Gamma Sigma Award in 2022 for achievement in business; Athena Leadership Award from Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce; Titan 100 honors for top C-level executives in Wisconsin; among others.

In July 2025 she joined the Board of Directors for the Green Bay Packers after being voted onto it at Lambeau Field’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

“I am incredibly honored for the opportunity to serve the Packer Organization, our community and the fans while representing Capital Credit Union,” she said.

Butz highlighted personal growth as her greatest accomplishment: “I think I am most proud of my personal development over the past eight years,” she said. “I realized through internal and external signs that I was not showing up the way I wanted to for those I had the privilege to lead… Today…I’ve learned to celebrate accomplishments and give recognition to others—especially when I find myself shining in the reflected light of their great work.”

Her connection with UW-Oshkosh remains strong; she continues participating in campus events such as MBA networking sessions while maintaining relationships with faculty members who influenced her career path.

“Their influence, knowledge, and guidance have been more impactful than I can put into words,” she said. “They were always available—to answer a question, give advice or simply listen. Returning to UWO allows me to give back…stay connected…and remain grounded in academic roots…”

The University will honor eleven alumni—including five Distinguished Alumni like Butz—during Homecoming weekend this October at its annual Alumni Awards Celebration event.