EXCEL 26 may have wrapped up, but the momentum continues. This week’s New York Minute looks back at an unforgettable conference in Saratoga Springs while highlighting advocacy opportunities, community investments, workplace recognition, and the many ways credit unions continue to make a difference across New York and beyond.

Recapping EXCEL 26!

Another successful EXCEL is in the books! Credit union professionals, volunteers, and industry partners from across New York gathered in Saratoga Springs for four days of learning, networking, philanthropy, and celebration at EXCEL 26, presented by TruStage, our Title Sponsor.

Attendees heard from an outstanding lineup of keynote speakers, including experts in leadership, innovation, digital transformation, and personal growth: Hannah Ubl, Amelia Rose Earhart, Erik Qualman, and Kevin Brown. Beyond the educational sessions, attendees connected through networking events, explored the exhibit hall, and participated in several charitable initiatives supporting important causes.

The TruStage Golf Tournament raised $30,000 and the Silent Auction raised $13,000 for the New York Credit Union Foundation, while the annual Wine Pull generated $15,000 for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. We also celebrated another memorable EXCEL with this year’s ’80s-themed closing party, complete with music, costumes, and plenty of fun.

Be sure to check out the daily photo galleries and event recap video to relive your favorite moments from EXCEL 26.

Thank you to all who attended New York’s premier credit union event! We look forward to next year. In the meantime, explore upcoming fall sessions on our full event lineup.

Register Today: America’s Credit Unions Congressional Caucus 2026

With midterm elections approaching and a new legislative cycle on the horizon, now is the time for credit union advocates to make their voices heard. Congressional Caucus 2026, taking place September 13-15 in Washington, D.C., brings together credit union leaders, advocates, and policymakers for critical conversations about the future of the movement.

Attendees will gain insights into emerging policy priorities, discuss pressing legislative and regulatory issues, and engage directly with lawmakers on matters impacting credit unions and the communities they serve. The event offers a unique opportunity to strengthen advocacy efforts while building relationships with industry leaders and elected officials.

As policy discussions begin shaping the priorities of 2027 and beyond, participation in the Congressional Caucus helps ensure the credit union perspective remains front and center in Washington.

Sidney FCU Contributes $20,000 to both United Way Mid Rural NY & IPH’s Danielle’s House

Sidney Federal Credit Union (SFCU) is continuing to make a meaningful impact through its Why SFCU? 1 Million Reasons Community Support Initiative, announcing two $20,000 donations supporting critical community needs.

The first donation was awarded to United Way Mid Rural NY to help provide dental kits and oral health education to approximately 16,000 children across Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, and Madison counties. The funding will help address barriers to dental care in rural communities while promoting healthy habits among local students.

SFCU also contributed $20,000 to IPH’s Danielle’s House, a Montgomery County program providing emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. The funding will support facility improvements and expand housing capacity for those in need.

Together, these investments reflect SFCU’s commitment to strengthening the communities it serves by supporting both immediate needs and long-term stability.

Municipal Credit Union Named One of New York’s ‘Best & Brightest Companies to Work For’ for Third Consecutive Year

Municipal Credit Union (MCU) has been recognized as one of New York’s Best & Brightest Companies to Work For® for the third consecutive year, highlighting the organization’s continued investment in employee development, wellness, and workplace culture.

The annual recognition honors employers that demonstrate excellence in areas such as leadership, employee engagement, work-life balance, community involvement, and professional development. MCU’s ongoing commitment to its workforce has resulted in significant investments throughout 2026, including employee training, career advancement opportunities, wellness initiatives, and enhanced benefits programs.

Among the organization’s accomplishments this year was the successful transition of 60 teller positions into Member Service Representative roles, creating new career pathways while enhancing the member experience through a more consultative service model.

The recognition reflects MCU’s belief that investing in employees ultimately strengthens the organization, improves service, and creates better outcomes for members and communities alike.

Reliant Credit Union Donates Sneakers for Children at The Children’s School of Rochester No. 15

Reliant Credit Union recently donated 97 pairs of new sneakers to students at The Children’s School of Rochester No. 15 as part of its longstanding Feet Forward program.

The donation marks the first distribution of 2026 and coincides with the program’s 10th anniversary. Since launching Feet Forward in 2016, Reliant has donated more than 2,800 pairs of sneakers to local children, representing an investment of more than $86,000 in area communities.

Working alongside Rochester Running Company, Reliant helps provide quality footwear to students who may otherwise lack access to properly fitting sneakers. The initiative aims to support students’ health, confidence, and readiness to learn while easing financial burdens on families.

By investing in local youth and removing everyday barriers, Reliant continues to demonstrate its commitment to improving lives and strengthening the communities it serves.

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This week in the New York Minute, we’re kicking off New York’s premier credit union event, celebrating a record-breaking charitable achievement, and sharing resources and opportunities from across the movement. Let’s dive in!

EXCEL 26 Kicks Off Today!

Greetings from Saratoga Springs! EXCEL 26 officially begins today and over the next four days, credit union professionals and volunteers from across New York will gather for an unforgettable event packed with networking, education, and celebration.

Today’s highlights include the TruStage Golf Tournament at McGregor Links Country Club, Learning Labs, the EXPO/Welcome Reception sponsored by Alloya Corporate FCU, a wine pull to benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, and the EXCEL 26 Kickoff Party at the Saratoga Springs City Center.

Sessions and featured speakers kick off tomorrow. To track the full schedule and learn more about the event’s speaker lineup, download the NYCUA Connect app.

We also extend a special thank you to TruStage, this year’s EXCEL 26 Title Sponsor, for its continued partnership and support.

Let’s make EXCEL 26 an event to remember!

Teachers Federal Credit Union Raises Record $1.1 Million for Children’s Miracle Network

Teachers Federal Credit Union has raised a record-breaking $1.1 million for Children’s Miracle Network® through its annual golf tournament and organization-wide fundraising efforts. These efforts support children and families receiving care at children’s hospitals across the country. The milestone brings the organization’s total fundraising support for Children’s Miracle Network to more than $3 million since 2023.

“We are honored to continue supporting Children’s Miracle Network and the extraordinary work they do for children and families,” said Brad Calhoun, President and CEO of Teachers Federal Credit Union. “Surpassing $1.1 million in fundraising is a remarkable milestone and reflects the generosity and commitment of our employees, members, and business partners. Together, we are helping provide critical care, life-saving treatments, specialized equipment, and essential services that make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families.”

This highlights the credit union movement’s longstanding commitment to community impact. Congratulations to the entire Teachers FCU team on this incredible achievement.

League System Launches Elder Exploitation Prevention Toolkit for Credit Unions

June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month, and the League System has launched a free, fully customizable Elder Exploitation Prevention Toolkit for credit unions to help safeguard members. As fraudsters increasingly target vulnerable populations through scams, impersonation tactics, and financial manipulation, credit unions play a critical role in protecting older members and providing trusted financial guidance.

The toolkit includes member-facing educational content, social media and outreach materials, staff guides and checklists, and practical tools for frontline teams—everything needed to educate members, equip staff, and raise community awareness around elder financial fraud.

This is the second in a series of five member-focused toolkits rolling out throughout 2026, and it’s available at no cost to credit unions of any size.

Support the “$30 by the 30th” PAC Campaign

America’s Credit Unions $30 by the 30th PAC campaign, a fundraising initiative supporting credit union advocacy efforts nationwide, is underway this month. The campaign encourages advocates to contribute $30 by June 30th to help strengthen the credit union movement’s voice on key legislative and regulatory issues impacting members, communities, and financial institutions.

Every dollar supports and strengthens the credit unions’ voice in Washington. If you haven’t contributed yet, now’s the time.

ICU Day 2026 Theme Announced: “Cooperative Finance: A Steady Signal in a Noisy World”

The World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU) and Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions have announced the official theme for International Credit Union (ICU) Day® 2026: “Cooperative Finance: A Steady Signal in a Noisy World.”

Celebrated globally on October 15, 2026, the 78th anniversary of ICU Day will recognize the strength, resilience, and stability credit unions provide to members and communities around the world. The theme emphasizes the credit union movement’s ability to deliver trusted financial guidance and people-focused service amid economic uncertainty and constant change.

This year, WFCU is introducing an ICU Day Grant Program, offering up to $10,000 in funding for credit unions and financial cooperatives to develop and implement financial literacy projects. Applications are open now through August 1, 2026, with recipients announced on ICU Day itself.

Promotional materials, including posters, logos, and social media graphics in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, are available for download.

National Credit Union Foundation Releases 2025 Impact Report

The National Credit Union Foundation has published its 2025 Impact Report, reflecting a defining year for the organization and the broader credit union movement. The report showcases the Foundation’s work supporting credit unions and consumers nationwide through programs focused on financial empowerment, leadership development, and cooperative principles. It also highlights the impact of grants, fundraising efforts, and partnerships that help expand access to critical resources and support services.

Key highlights include:

• Nearly 250 credit union professionals completing the Credit Union Development Education (DE) program
• Grant-supported initiatives reaching more than 2,200 youth transitioning out of foster care
• Over $379,000 distributed through CUAid to support credit union employees and volunteers affected by natural disasters
• More than 1,100 leaders and advocates gathered at the Foundation Gala and Herb Wegner Memorial Awards

Download the full report to learn more.

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This week’s New York Minute highlights a final call for EXCEL 26 Silent Auction donations, a major fundraising milestone from Sunmark Credit Union, upcoming educational opportunities, and resources designed to help credit unions better serve and protect their members. Read on for the latest updates from around the movement.

Last Call: Donate to the EXCEL 26 Silent Auction to Support NYCUF

There’s still time to make a difference! The EXCEL 26 Silent Auction is just around the corner, and the New York Credit Union Foundation is seeking a few final donations before bidding begins.

The annual auction is one of the Foundation’s signature fundraising initiatives, helping support financial wellness programs, professional development opportunities, disaster relief efforts, and other initiatives that strengthen credit unions and the communities they serve. Popular donations have included gift baskets, vacation packages, event tickets, electronics, local experiences, and unique member gifts.

Donations must be submitted soon, so don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your organization while supporting a great cause.

Sunmark Credit Union Golf Classic Raises More Than $75,000 for the Community

Sunmark Credit Union’s commitment to giving back was on full display during its 26th Annual Charity Golf Classic, which raised more than $75,000 for the Sunmark Charitable Community Foundation.

Held at Normanside Country Club in Delmar, the event welcomed more than 100 golfers and over 50 corporate sponsors for a day of golf, networking, raffles, and community impact. Since its inception in 2000, the tournament has become a cornerstone fundraising event, generating support for nonprofit organizations and initiatives throughout Sunmark’s service area.

Proceeds from the event directly benefit the Foundation, which provides financial contributions, volunteer support, and resources to organizations working to improve quality of life, strengthen communities, and expand financial education opportunities.

CU4Kids Webinar Explores Member Trust, Giving, and Community Impact

How do consumers view charitable giving? What role do credit unions play in fostering trust and strengthening local communities? A new CU4Kids webinar will explore these questions through the lens of recently released research from Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

The session will examine key findings on member perceptions of charitable giving, trust in financial institutions, and the impact of community-focused initiatives. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how charitable partnerships can strengthen member relationships while reinforcing the credit union mission.

Whether your credit union already participates in fundraising initiatives or is looking to expand its community impact efforts, this webinar offers actionable insights backed by new research.

Fighting Member Target Fraud Starts Inside the Credit Union

Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, using tactics like artificial intelligence, impersonation schemes, and social engineering to manipulate consumers into giving away sensitive information or transferring funds. As these scams continue to evolve, credit unions play a critical role in protecting members and strengthening fraud prevention efforts.

In a new article from TruStage, Risk Consultant Holly Speczenski explores the growing threat of member-targeted fraud and outlines practical steps credit unions can take to reduce risk. From employee training and member education to building a culture of fraud awareness, the article highlights strategies that can help institutions stay one step ahead of emerging threats.

Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Announces Launch of the 2026 Small Business Recovery Grant (SBRG) Program

The Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (FHLBNY) has announced the launch of its 2026 Small Business Recovery Grant (SBRG) Program, providing funding to support eligible small businesses as they recover, rebuild, and grow.

Through the program, participating financial institutions can help connect qualified businesses with grant funding designed to address operational challenges, invest in recovery efforts, and strengthen long-term sustainability. The initiative reflects FHLBNY’s ongoing commitment to supporting economic development and fostering resilient local communities.

Credit unions and other participating institutions are encouraged to learn more about eligibility requirements, funding availability, and application details to help connect local businesses with these valuable resources.

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How credit union leaders can protect members by changing mindset, culture and tools

By Holly Speczenksi, Risk Consultant, Risk & Compliance Solutions, TruStage

I spend a lot of time talking with credit unions about risk, and one issue keeps coming up: member-targeted fraud. It touches nearly every institution, regardless of size, geography or field of membership. Fraud no longer starts with systems or networks; it starts with people. That reality changes how leaders need to think about prevention.

When I talk about member-targeted fraud, I mean scams that are aimed directly at individuals not credit unions. These schemes trick members into sending money, sharing sensitive information or giving criminals access to their accounts. Fraudsters often impersonate credit unions, government agencies, law enforcement or tech support. They rely on urgency and fear to push members into acting before they have time to think logically about what is happening

This type of fraud affects everyone. Many still assume scams primarily target older adults, but the reality is very different. I see victims across all age groups. Most adults have encountered some form of online scam, and the messages are no longer sloppy or obvious. Criminals now personalize their outreach using data pulled from breaches, social media, and public records, which makes the interaction feel legitimate and familiar

Over the last few years, fraudsters have adopted more sophisticated social engineering tactics and generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) has made their work even easier. Criminals can now create polished phishing emails, realistic text messages, and deep fake voice or video clips. Those tools remove many of the traditional warning signs—like bad grammar or peculiar sentence structure—credit unions once relied on when educating members about fraud.

Types of scams

Romance scams remain some of the most damaging cases I see. These schemes do not rely on urgency. Instead, scammers build relationships over weeks, months, or even longer. They create detailed backstories and full identities, sometimes stolen from real people. By the time they ask for money, victims feel emotionally invested and deeply connected. That investment makes it extremely difficult for credit union staff to convince a member the relationship is not real.

Government impersonation scams also continue to grow. In these cases, fraudsters pose as representatives from well-known governmental agencies like the FBI, Secret Service, or IRS. They claim the victim’s credit union or account is under investigation and warn members their funds are at risk. The scammer then instructs the member to move money into a so-called “secure” or “holding account” via a wire transfer or a cash deposit into a cryptocurrency ATM. They stress urgency while demanding secrecy, which protects the criminal by isolating the victim.

Employee impersonation scams hit especially close to home for credit unions. In these situations, criminals call members while posing as credit union employees. They reference the member by name and claim to see suspicious account activity. Once the member denies authorizing the transactions, the scammer asks for authentication details. With that information, criminals can gain access to accounts online and move funds quickly, often before anyone realizes what happened.

Other scams continue to circulate as well, including lottery scams, fake investment opportunities, family emergency stories, and tech support schemes. Each one uses a different hook, but the mechanics stay consistent. Criminals create fear or excitement, introduce urgency, and insist on secrecy. They then walk victims’ step by step through the process of sending money.

What credit unions can do to safeguard members

Preventing these losses requires credit unions to start with their own staff. Employees need training that focuses on recognizing red flags and feeling comfortable slowing things down. Large or unusual withdrawals, sudden transfer requests and members who seem anxious or rushed all deserve and need closer attention. Asking questions protects members far better than speeding through a transaction ever will.

Technology supports that effort. Credit unions need real-time fraud monitoring tools that rely on behavioral analytics, machine learning, and AI. These systems help identify activity that does not align with a member’s typical behavior, such as logging in from a new device and immediately initiating large transactions. Without these tools, institutions end up chasing fraud instead of preventing it.

Member education also plays a critical role, but it needs consistency and repetition. Credit unions should share fraud messaging through every available channel, including online and mobile banking, email, branch interactions, and traditional direct mail. Members consume information differently, and repeating key messages on multiple channels increases the likelihood they remember them when it matters most.

Simple guidance often works best. Members should know:

• Don’t trust caller ID, phone numbers can be spoofed.
• Never share one-time passcodes or sensitive information with someone who calls.
• If a caller pressures them to act quickly or demands secrecy, that request should immediately raise concern.
• Walking away if any of these red flags become evident is always the safest choice.

Trusted contact programs offer another layer of protection. These programs allow credit unions to reach out to a person the member has already designated when staff suspect financial exploitation or health concerns. The trusted contact does not gain account access. Instead, they provide perspective and support that can help interrupt a scam before money disappears.

At the leadership level, this work requires a mindset shift. Fraud prevention should function as both loss prevention and member service. Protecting members from scams strengthens trust and reinforces the credit union’s role as a financial partner. When that philosophy becomes part of the culture, staff feel empowered to act, members feel supported and the organization becomes stronger against an ever-evolving threat.

Staying ahead of the bad actors

TruStage offers resources to help keep your members protected, including our ‘When Members Become Victims’ interactive training module and our Emerging Risks Outlook overview.

To learn more how TruStage can help, visit TruStage.com

<sub>The views expressed here are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views of TruStage.

TruStage® is the marketing name for TruStage Financial Group, Inc. its subsidiaries and affiliates. Corporate headquarters are located in Madison, Wis. © TruStage

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From advocacy and community impact to leadership recognition and industry events, credit unions across New York continue to demonstrate the power of cooperation in action! This week’s New York Minute highlights major milestones, honors, and more. Read on for the latest updates from around the movement.

Credit Unions Partner with Habitat for Humanity for Capitol Build Day

Credit unions from across New York rolled up their sleeves for Habitat for Humanity’s Capitol Build Day on May 26. The event brought together volunteers for a day of hands-on service to help expand access to affordable housing and support families on their path to homeownership. The effort demonstrates credit unions’ ongoing commitment to financial well-being beyond traditional banking services.

“Credit unions were built on the belief that everyone deserves access to affordable financial solutions and Capitol Build Day brings that belief to life,” said Association President & CEO William J. Mellin. “Partnering with Habitat for Humanity allows us to turn that mission into action, helping New Yorkers build stable financial futures from the ground up.”

The event continues to showcase how collaboration and community service remain at the heart of the credit union philosophy. We are grateful to our credit union members who supported the event and joined us for a day of community building and fun.

Long Island Chapter Raises $50,000 for the New York Credit Union Foundation

The Association’s Long Island Chapter is making a major investment in the future of the movement with a $50,000 contribution to the New York Credit Union Foundation following the success of its annual golf outing held on May 18 at Bellport Country Club.

The outing brought together credit union professionals, business partners, and supporters from across the region for a day of friendly competition, networking, collaboration, and fundraising—all in support of the Foundation’s mission to positively impact New Yorkers through credit unions.

Funds raised through events like this help support the Foundation’s educational initiatives, disaster relief efforts, professional development opportunities, and programs that empower credit unions to better serve their members.

Cassie Fortney of Sunmark Credit Union Recognized as 40 Under 40 by the Albany Business Review

Congratulations to Cassie Fortney of Sunmark Credit Union, who has been recognized by the Albany Business Review as part of its prestigious 40 Under 40 Class of 2026.

The award celebrates professionals who are helping shape the future of business and nonprofit leadership throughout the Capital Region. Fortney’s recognition highlights the growing influence of the credit union movement across New York. Not to mention the important role young leaders play in driving member service and community engagement forward. The honor is well-deserved!

Credit Union Leaders Receive Long Island Business News Executive Circle Honors

Two credit union leaders have been recognized by Long Island Business News with its 2026 Executive Circle Award, which celebrates high-performing executives who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and lasting impact within their organizations and communities.

This year’s honorees include:

• Scott Gyllensten, Chief Risk Officer, Teachers Federal Credit Union
• Eric Oterson, Chief Member Experience Officer, Jovia Financial Credit Union

Congratulations to both honorees! Their leadership plays a crucial role in advancing member experience, organizational growth, and community engagement. Awards like these continue to spotlight the strength of leadership within New York’s credit union movement and the dedication of professionals working every day to improve financial lives and strengthen their communities.

Alloya Returns to Nashville for 12th Annual Leadership Symposium

Alloya Corporate Federal Credit Union will return to Nashville this September for its 12th Annual Credit Union Leadership Symposium, bringing together credit union leaders from across the country for three days of insight, strategy, and collaboration.

Taking place September 9–11 at the Omni Nashville Hotel, the event will feature keynote presentations and discussions focused on innovation, leadership, artificial intelligence, economic trends, and the future of the credit union movement. This year’s speaker lineup includes innovation expert Josh Linkner, economist Elliot Eisenberg, AI expert Byron Reese, and former Navy commander Mike Abrashoff, among others.

In addition to educational sessions, this year’s symposium will also celebrate Alloya’s 15-year anniversary of serving credit unions nationwide.

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