St. Jean’s Credit Union is pleased to announce the appointment of two new board members. Our new board members each bring a unique expertise which will enhance the Board’s ability to effectively oversee the credit union business operations and assist with the efforts to achieve long-term strategic objectives.

Cheryl Crounse, an experienced executive in the higher education forum currently sitting as the Vice President of Institutional Advancement of Salem State University and Executive Director of the Salem State University Foundation, Inc. With over 25 years of experience developing and advancing fundraising strategies, Cheryl is a team leader with responsibilities which include developing and advancing fundraising strategy through alumni relations, annual giving, advancement services, events, major gift, campaign and planned gifts, and communications as well as overseeing the finances, administration, endowment, programs and strategic plans of the foundation’s board.

Ms. Crounse is a native of New York, relocating to Lynn, MA with her husband where they have resided for the last 14 years. She treasures community involvement, serving on the Board of Lynn Museum/Lynn Arts, a member at Girls, Inc. and supports many of the Northshore non-profit organizations. As a first-generation college student, Cheryl studied business at Oswego State University.

Shawn A. Newton has over 25 years of experience in the higher education profession, most recently holding the role of Associate Dean of Students at Suffolk University, serving as the deputy chief student affairs officer. In his previous role at Suffolk, Mr. Newton was responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the Dean of Student’s office as well as the operations for the division of Student Affairs. A major part of his role included working to increase student retention while identifying and responding to students in crisis. Prior to that, Shawn provided leadership and management to the Student Life division while holding the position of Assistant Dean of Students at Salem State University. Serving as a principal advocate for all students and strongly advocating for student-centered institutional planning and policy development. Mr. Newton was recently appointed Chairman by Mayor Kim Driscoll for the City of Salem Race Equity Task Force in Salem, MA. He is a two-year board member at the Plummer Youth Promise, Salem, newly appointed board member for Spark Share based out of Boston, MA, and Salem 4 All. He is also a three-year board member for 1 Race, Salem. Currently, he is the President and CEO of Newton Consultancy Group where his firm offers an impressive portfolio of professional consulting services including leadership coaching, conflict resolution, and training on diversity, equity, and inclusion just to name a few.

St. Jean’s President & CEO, C. David Surface said “We are thrilled to welcome these two new board members, demonstrating a continued commitment to St. Jean’s Credit Union. The new members join an 8-member board with a wide array of knowledge and expertise. Both of our new board members bring a unique background and wealth of experience to strengthen our foundation as we strive to fulfill our mission to serve and benefit our membership and communities.”