Influencer Highlight: Denelle Miller
From Nursing to CEO: Denelle Miller Champions Children’s Health Through Credit Union Leadership
Denelle Miller has always been driven by a desire to serve others. Before she ever stepped into the world of credit unions, she was studying nursing — a field that allowed her to care for people during their most vulnerable moments. Though her career took an unexpected turn nearly two decades ago, her heart for service never wavered. Today, she’s the CEO of FiCare Federal Credit Union, which serves healthcare professionals — and a passionate advocate for Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids), a program of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
Denelle’s path to credit union leadership began 17 years ago. She entered the industry not with a finance degree, but with a caregiver’s mindset. “Helping people financially is a lot like helping them physically,” she says. “It’s about meeting people where they are and helping them become healthier, stronger, and more secure.”
That philosophy carried her through every position in the credit union — from teller all the way to CEO, a role she took on at just 25. Leading didn’t mean letting go of service. In fact, it deepened her sense of responsibility. “I’ve always wanted to take care of people,” she says. “Now, I have the chance to care for those who care for others.”
That mission is embedded in FiCare’s identity. With five branches, 30 employees, and $80 million in assets, the credit union may be modest in size, but its impact is mighty. Philanthropy is a core part of the workplace culture, and the team regularly participates in initiatives supporting local children’s hospitals. Whether it’s creating crayon bags or assembling fidget kits during training days, every effort is infused with care and community spirit.
Though she’d always supported children’s health causes, Denelle’s involvement with CU4Kids became more personal and pronounced in recent years. As a mother of two, she remembers vividly the fear she felt when her son, just one month old, needed urgent care 40 miles away. That terrifying drive to the hospital — and the relief that came upon arrival — stayed with her. It’s part of what fuels her commitment to children’s hospitals today.
This year, Denelle is stepping into a new role as the chairwoman of the inaugural Night of Miracles Gala, a groundbreaking CU4Kids fundraising event coming to Orlando on June 12. The idea was sparked in late 2023, when Samantha Beeler, president of The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates, asked Denelle to help bring the gala to life. She knew they needed a strong, passionate leader — and Denelle was the perfect fit.
“It’s been such a rewarding journey, both personally and professionally,” Denelle reflects. “I’ve strengthened relationships with other CEOs, learned more about the incredible work of local hospitals, and seen firsthand how powerful this collaboration can be.”
Though she hadn’t previously led a CU4Kids initiative herself, Denelle is no stranger to giving back. Her credit union has long participated in annual charitable drives with other Tampa Bay area institutions. But Night of Miracles represents something more: a unifying moment. A platform to help other credit unions build a meaningful connection with CU4Kids and see the impact they can have.
“This is our stepping stone,” Denelle says. “It might take time for it to grow, but this is how we show our passion for children’s health.”
She also wants to send a clear message to other credit unions: getting involved doesn’t require a big budget — just a big heart.
“Jump in,” she urges. “Whether it’s a jeans day fundraiser, a hospital tour, or simply learning more, CU4Kids is a chance to connect your team with something bigger. You never know — someone on your staff or in your membership may have needed a CMN Hospital.”
And the results speak for themselves. “The joy and meaning it brings to your team — and the lives it changes — it’s truly worth it.”
From the hospital halls to the credit union lobby, Denelle Miller continues to make a difference — not just as a CEO, but as a caregiver at heart.
