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Summit Credit Union Pledges $100,000 to "The Next Chapter" Library Capital Campaign, Matching 100 Extraordinary Women Gifts

March 13, 2025 COTTAGE GROVE, WI – Summit Credit Union, headquartered in the Village of Cottage Grove, has pledged a $100,000 grant to “The Next Chapter” Library Capital Campaign, matching every pledge of $1,000 made by the extraordinary women of Cottage Grove in support of a potential public library in Cottage Grove. This pledge supports the Village of Cottage Grove’s capital campaign, which is securing contingent pledges to offset the cost of the construction of a community library at the former Learning Ladder property, 312 W. Cottage Grove Road, if approved by Village voters by referendum on April 1, 2025.
“Libraries are the hear of any thriving community. Providing children with easy access to books and programming not only inspires a love of reading, but it also sparks creativity and reinforces the value of lifelong learning,” said Summit Credit Union CEO & President Kim Sponem. “Summit Credit Union is proud to pledge our financial support, and we encourage others to step up to ensure future generations of Cottage Grove have a permanent place to connect, learn, and grow”
Women are making 5-year pledges of $1,000 (one time gift, annual gift of $200 or monthly gift of $17). Gifts can be made in the woman’s name or in honor or memory of someone. Men can make gifts to recognize a special woman. Groups of women, such as book clubs, can come together for one gift. All names will be permanently listed in the lobby of the new library. There will be a Celebration Recognition Event later this year.
The “Next Chapter” campaign aims to raid at least $1,000,000 to directly offset capital costs of the potential future library. Managed by the Village of Cottage Grove and directed by The Sweeney Group, the campaign has already received over $500,000 in pledges from individuals, families, and businesses, and private organizations as of February 28, 2025.
“It is heartwarming to see local businesses and community members supporting a space that will serve all of our neighbors. It is a testament to our commitment to growth, inclusivity, and long-term economic health,” said Robin Smekal, President of the Friends of the Cottage Grove Community Library.
In addition to Summit’s generous pledge, CEO Kim Sponem has personally committed to the campaign. “I’m personally contributing to the 100 Extraordinary Women™ campaign because I understand the critical role libraries play in helping women and their families secure a strong future.”
For more information about the 100 extraordinary Women initiative and to make your pledge, visit: The Friends of the Cottage Community Grove Library, Inc. are the 501(c)3 for the Village’s Library Board and can accept anonymous donations on behalf of the Village’s campaign. For more information, visit You might also be interested in Summit Credit Union named Top Workplace in Madison, Milwaukee, and U.S., recognized for strong culture, engagement, and employee benefits... Summit Credit Union helps Wisconsin families achieve homeownership with up to $10K in down payment assistance... Summit Credit Union’s President and CEO Kim Sponem was recently featured on the Women of Community Banking podcast... Summit welcomed thousands of members and their families to Warner Park for its annual Summit Fest, blending its official Annual Meeting of the Membership... Summit Credit Union names Mike McCoy Chief Commercial Officer to advance commercial banking and support Wisconsin businesses... With $87 million in member benefits, Summit Credit Union remains the nation’s #1 credit union for Return of the Member... Summit Credit Union partners with LOVB Madison Volleyball to empower women athletes and advance equity in sports and finance... Kim Sponem calls for equitable pay practices, warning that lifetime pay gaps leave women at greater risk of retirement insecurity... Summit Credit Union earns the #1 national Return of the Member ranking again, highlighting its strong member value and financial impact...