UW Credit Union Extends Partnership With Light the Hoan, Introduces New Light Show

MILWAUKEE (Sept. 9, 2025) — In celebration of its partnership with Light the Hoan, UW Credit Union will host a series of three 10-minute colored light shows this weekend. The community animations kick off on Friday, Sept. 12, and run through Sunday, Sept. 14, with shows at 7:30, 8:30 and 9:30 each evening. 

The new installment will illuminate the Hoan in vibrant color schemes designed to celebrate the Milwaukee community. In addition to the familiar hues of local sports teams and the Milwaukee Flag, the credit union’s red and white branding will be visible at the onset and conclusion of each display.

Today, the credit union debuted a new debit card design to highlight the iconic bridge and the symbol of joy it represents. The card features imagery captured by drone photographer and UW Credit Union member Nate Vomhof. 

“We support causes that bring people together,” said UW Credit Union Director of Member Sales & Service Fe Johnson. “Much like these light shows, our debit cards are designed to reflect our membership and support what they love most about their communities. Right now, our People’s Flag design is our most-issued debit card in the Milwaukee area, so we’re excited to give members another way to showcase the local love.”

To add to the excitement, the first 400 members who select this design when opening a new checking account will receive a bulb dedication issued in their name on UW Credit Union’s behalf, for a total donation of $10,000 to benefit ongoing Light the Hoan activations. 

“In a way, the community members are part-owners of this bridge, because it’s their support and enthusiasm that truly make it shine,” said Light the Hoan Executive Director Erika Smith. “Thanks to partners like UW Credit Union, we get to keep giving people something new to enjoy — and now, a pocket-size expression of Milwaukee’s spirit.”

UW Credit Union will keep the celebration alive during next week’s Hoancoming festivities, co-hosting the "Terrace on Lake Michigan” experience with the Wisconsin Union and the Hoan Group. The free lakefront event and gathering space honors the connection between the Madison and Milwaukee communities through music, food and the iconic sunburst Terrace chairs. 

To learn more about light shows and local viewing opportunities, visit lightthehoan.com or follow the organization on Instagram (@lightthehoan) or Facebook.

For more details on the bulb dedication and new debit card design, visit uwcu.org/hoan.

About UW Credit Union

UW Credit Union is a growing, federally insured financial institution and a leading provider of a full range of financial services to University of Wisconsin communities. UW Credit Union’s more than 900 employees serve the financial needs of over 375,000 members through world-class technology systems and a convenient network of 35 branch locations and more than 100 ATMs. With $6 billion in assets, UW Credit Union is ranked nationally among the leading credit unions. Founded more than 90 years ago by members of the University of Wisconsin faculty and staff, UW Credit Union continues to operate as a not-for-profit, member-owned financial cooperative with locations in the Madison, Milwaukee, Stevens Point, Green Bay, Oshkosh, Whitewater and La Crosse areas.

About Light the Hoan 

Light the Hoan, Inc is the nonprofit organization that manages and programs the 5,000+ LED lights on Milwaukee’s Daniel Hoan Memorial Bridge. The west side of the bridge was first illuminated in 2020, with the east side added in 2025, it lights up daily at sunrise and sunset as a symbol of connection across the city. Through its lighting, Light the Hoan celebrates Milwaukee’s collective spirit, raises awareness for local nonprofits, and creates tech and creative experiences for the next generation.