In this week’s New York Minute, don’t miss your chance to attend one of our two Lending School sessions for 2026! Then, see service expansions, community support, and career developments from credit unions across the state. Get the latest industry news in our weekly blog!

Register Today: Lending School in Albany & Buffalo!

Strengthen your consumer lending expertise at this one-day, strategy-driven Lending School designed for front-line lenders and lending leadership.

This immersive program focuses on:

• Consumer loan interviewing and decisioning
• Risk assessment and responsible underwriting
• Consultative, member-focused sales conversations
• Evaluating collateral and identifying underwriting pitfalls
• FICO education and practical credit-improvement strategies
• Early bankruptcy indicators and higher-risk loan considerations
• Increasing ancillary product sales in a competitive market

Sessions are delivered in concise, high-impact modules built for rapid learning and immediate application back at your credit union. This class is particularly useful for credit union loan officers, MSRs, lending management, and professionals looking to refresh or elevate their lending expertise.

Albany Edition
Tuesday, March 31
Association Headquarters
4 Tower Place (5th Floor), Albany, NY

Buffalo Edition
Cornerstone Community FCU (Main Offices)
6485 South Transit Road
Lockport, NY 14094

Municipal CU Foundation Provides $150,000 Grant to Ronald McDonald House

The MCU Foundation has awarded a $150,000 grant to Ronald McDonald House of the Greater Hudson Valley to support families navigating serious pediatric medical care. Located on the campus of Westchester Medical Center, RMHGHV offers families comfort and stability during extended hospital stays that often last weeks or months.

The funding will provide thousands of freshly prepared meals, support families staying at RMHGHV, and deliver meals to Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital and Blythedale Children’s Hospital.

Established in 2023, the MCU Foundation focuses on building generational wealth and eliminating poverty by increasing access to necessities, education, and homeownership — reinforcing the credit union movement’s deep commitment to community care. We applaud the foundation and credit union for making a positive impact on their community!

Sunmark Credit Union Partners With The RED Bookshelf

The Sunmark Charitable Foundation, the community nonprofit arm of Sunmark Credit Union, partnered with The RED Bookshelf to host a community book drive supporting young readers across the Capital Region.

Together with the community, Sumark collected over 1,000 books. The donated books will stock The RED Bookshelf’s bright red neighborhood shelves, providing free, accessible reading materials to children and families.

Sunmark employees also volunteered to sort and prep books for distribution. We commend the credit union’s hands-on commitment to strengthening literacy, fueling imagination, and supporting the communities it serves!

Sidney Federal Credit Union Launches Mobile Branch

Sidney Federal Credit Union is expanding access to financial services with the launch of its new SFCU Mobile Branch, which began rolling out earlier this month.

This full-service banking unit brings essential services directly into neighborhoods across Central New York, helping remove barriers for individuals and families who may not have convenient branch access.

The Mobile Branch provides:

• Everyday banking services
• Member support and financial guidance
• Community outreach and engagement

This new initiative strengthens local connections while ensuring members can access the financial tools they need wherever they are. Check out the Mobile Branch schedule and locations below to see where it’s headed next!

Ada Myteberi of Visions Federal Credit Union Earns CUDE Certification

Ada Myteberi, AVP/Regional Member Services Officer at Visions Federal Credit Union, has earned her Credit Union Development Educator (CUDE) designation through the National Credit Union Foundation. Ada joins a global network of more than 3,300 DE graduates from 35 countries.

The immersive, week-long DE program explores cooperative principles, the credit union mission, and strategies to advance financial well-being. The February 2026 cohort convened at Suncoast Credit Union in Tampa, Florida, and included volunteer service at Feeding Tampa Bay.

With over 20 years of financial services experience and oversight of 13 branches, Ada’s CUDE certification reinforces her commitment to financial inclusion, community development, and the credit union difference

Please join us in congratulating Ada for completing this achievement!

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This week in our blog, we’re covering donations from local credit unions and one leader who was recently honored. Plus, update your Project Zip Code information to ensure your membership data is accurate. Get these updates and more every week in the New York Minute.

Credit Unions: Update Your Project Zip Code Information

With advocacy efforts underway at both the state and federal levels–and many advocates preparing for America’s Credit Unions’ 2026 Governmental Affairs Conference–now is the ideal time to confirm your Project Zip Code (PZC) data is accurate and up to date.

Project Zip Code is a secure, user-friendly tool that matches your membership data to:

• Congressional districts
• State legislative districts
• Counties

This aggregated data strengthens advocacy by demonstrating the collective impact of credit unions nationwide. Importantly, no individual member information is shared outside your organization.

Beyond advocacy, PZC offers operational value. Credit unions can analyze geographic member distribution to inform decisions about branch placement, ATM strategy, and shared branching opportunities.

Keeping your data current ensures your voice is accurately represented when it matters most. If you require assistance, please contact the Association’s Member Relations team at member.relations@nycua.org. Click below and update your info today!

SeaComm FCU Donates to Massena Fire Department for New Vehicle

SeaComm Federal Credit Union has donated the full amount needed for the Massena Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new UTV and trailer, which significantly strengthens emergency response capabilities in the region.

The all-terrain vehicle will allow firefighters to respond more effectively in remote and wooded terrain, waterfront properties along the river, and areas inaccessible to traditional fire trucks. The investment reflects SeaComm’s ongoing mission to support and protect the communities it serves.

Western New York FCU Makes Donation to WNY Heroes

Western New York Federal Credit Union has donated $5,000 to WNY Heroes’ Pawsitive for Heroes Program, which trains and provides service dogs to veterans.

The contribution was made possible through a community enrichment grant from the credit union’s Visa program and supports service dog training and placement, veterinary care, and ongoing food costs for the animals.

This isn’t the only way Western New York FCU is supporting vets! The credit union offers a 0.25% reduction on consumer loans for veterans every day.

Trish Shermot of Visions FCU Honored with ATHENA Award

Trish Shermot, Director of Government Affairs/Regional Urban Development at Visions Federal Credit Union, has been named the 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient by Berks Women2Women.

The ATHENA Award honors women who demonstrate professional excellence, community leadership, and a commitment to empowering other women. Shermot’s career has earned national recognition, including multiple CUNA Dora Maxwell and Louise Herring Awards for social responsibility and ethical leadership.

She serves on numerous boards and committees, championing financial inclusion, workforce development, and civic engagement. Trish will be celebrated at the ATHENA and EmpowHER Awards on March 4 at the Women2Women Conference & Expo.

Please join us in congratulating Trish for this honor!

From Origence- Loan Origination Technology: Accelerating Your Credit Union’s Growth

Credit union lending is changing as fintech competition, rising member expectations, and the demand for digital solutions reshape the industry. Loan origination systems (LOS) have moved beyond the back office and are now essential tools for driving growth, improving efficiency, and delivering the experience members expect. To thrive in today’s financial landscape, credit unions need advanced lending technology that keeps them competitive and future-ready.

Member expectations are redefining lending

Credit union members expect instant decisions, seamless digital experiences, and responsive communication through their preferred channels. They want flexibility and increasingly judge service quality based on speed and convenience. Meeting these expectations becomes challenging when staff are consumed by manual tasks or working with outdated systems. According to Astute Analytica, the global LOS market could reach nearly $10 billion within the next five years, reflecting institutions’ increasing acceptance that advanced lending technology is no longer optional.

Turning a LOS into your competitive advantage

While basic loan origination systems handle essential workflow management, document processing, and reporting, modern solutions deliver transformational capabilities that drive strategic advantage.

• Intelligent decisioning engines: Modern, AI-powered engines analyze broad datasets for faster, more accurate risk assessments. These systems can more effectively segment applicants who normally fall into “the review zone” and those with limited credit history, expanding lending opportunities to underserved populations without increasing risk.
• Configurable workflows: The distinction between configuration and customization represents a critical decision point. While customization provides ultimate flexibility, it typically requires technical expertise and involves complex coding by in-house experts. Configurable systems allow credit unions to tailor workflows through intuitive interfaces without developer involvement. The ideal solution balances easy configuration for most needs while providing low-code options and APIs for deeper customization when necessary.
• Process automation: Intelligent automation transforms lending operations by streamlining document processing, accelerating funding, and reducing manual tasks. Modern systems leverage AI to classify, analyze, and extract data from documents, reducing processing time while improving accuracy. By automating routine tasks, staff can redirect their attention to higher-value activities like building member relationships and handling complex lending scenarios that require human judgment.
• Communication integration: Modern LOS platforms integrate communication tools that support automated status updates, secure document collection, two-way messaging, live chat, and an online portal. These real-time communication tools reduce application abandonment, accelerate funding, and create a seamless experience that builds member trust and satisfaction—particularly through SMS, which, according to Twilio, can deliver open rates roughly five times higher than email, with 90% of text messages read within three minutes.

Strategic implementation checklist

Before selecting a loan origination system, credit unions should begin with an internal self-assessment to identify the processes, constraints, and technical limitations that may inhibit growth or hinder progress toward strategic goals. Credit union service organizations (CUSOs) often deliver technological solutions and strategic guidance, aligning with credit union values and priorities. The right LOS should address current gaps while enabling future flexibility.

Use the checklist below to guide evaluation and implementation decisions:
Does the solution support your credit union’s unique growth strategy and member service vision?
Can the system connect seamlessly with core banking systems and third-party services through standardized APIs?
Does the solution create a cohesive, branded experience across channels that reduces friction and supports self-service?
Does the system incorporate layered fraud protection measures that evolve with emerging threats?
Will the provider deliver implementation expertise and ongoing optimization assistance?

Technology that powers member connections

As lending technology advances, credit unions that adopt modern loan origination systems set the stage for long-term growth. These solutions combine efficiency with personalized service, delivering the speed and convenience members expect while preserving the relationship-driven approach that defines credit unions.

Successful implementations view loan origination technology not just as a processing tool, but as a catalyst for growth—strengthening member connections and market position. With the right approach, credit unions can deliver faster, more efficient lending while keeping relationships at the center. Origence arc OS is built to help you achieve that balance, combining advanced automation with a member-first experience. Contact us today to learn more about how Origence can help transform your lending strategy.

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In our latest New York Minute, explore upcoming educational and event opportunities from the Association, Visions FCU, and InfoSight360! Plus, nominations for the Association’s Board of Directors open this Friday, and read expert insights from TruStage. Get the latest industry news in our weekly newsletter!

Register Now: Elevating Credit Union Leaders Conference Series

The Elevating Credit Union Leaders Conference Series is designed for professionals ready to grow their leadership impact within the credit union movement. This four-part series includes three virtual sessions and one in-person event, offering flexible access to high-value leadership development.

Session Schedule
Virtual: March 18, July 14 & December 2
In-Person: October 7, Crowne Plaza Albany – The Desmond Hotel

Participants will explore essential leadership topics, including transitioning from manager to mentor, navigating leadership challenges, and mastering strategic communication. The series also dives into the mindset and core qualities required to lead effectively in today’s evolving credit union environment.

Expert insights will be shared by Mark Arnold, Founder & CEO, and Shawn Temple, Chief Strategy Officer of On the Mark Strategies. This program is ideal for managers, supervisors, young professionals, and emerging leaders. Register by March 11, 2026 to save your spot.

Association Board of Directors Nominations Open Friday, February 13

The nomination period for the Association’s Board of Directors will begin Friday, February 13. This is a key opportunity for dedicated credit union leaders to help guide the Association’s mission and shape the future of the credit union movement.

This year, there are three expiring director seats and one open seat:

• Two seats in Asset Tier 1 (up to $250 million)
• Two seats in Asset Tier 2 ($250 million and over)

Key Dates
Nominations open: Friday, February 13
Nomination deadline: Wednesday, April 15
Election period: Friday, May 8–Thursday, June 4

To be eligible, candidates must be supported by the leadership of their credit union and committed to fulfilling their leadership responsibilities if elected. Additionally, the nominees’ credit union must be a member of the Association in good standing.

More details on the nomination process will be available on our website starting February 13.

Save the Date: Visions Voice at GAC

Heading to America’s Credit Unions GAC this year? Add Visions Voice to your agenda for a high-impact networking and learning experience. Hosted by Visions Federal Credit Union, this exclusive event kicks off the conference with timely insights on advancing member financial wellness.

Event Details
Date: March 1, 2026
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Location: Washington Convention Center, Room 103 AB

The session, led by Ty Muse, President & CEO of Visions FCU, focuses on Building Member Financial Wellness Through Collaboration. Attendees will hear from nationally recognized speakers Rodney E. Hood and Jean Chatzky.

Guests will enjoy lunch, giveaways, networking, and practical takeaways. Save your spot today!

Up Your Compliance with InfoSight360 Compliance Officer Bootcamp

As credit unions face increasing compliance complexity, the InfoSight360 Compliance Officer Bootcamp delivers the foundational training today’s compliance professionals need to succeed. This comprehensive program goes beyond individual regulations to focus on how to approach compliance work, like covering regulatory interpretation, research techniques, audits, training requirements, marketing and advertising compliance, fraud investigations, complaint programs, and third-party due diligence.

Designed as an annual program with quarterly, three-hour sessions, the Bootcamp is led by experienced compliance professionals who understand the real-world demands of the role. Participants will build confidence, clarity, and a deeper understanding of how compliance supports the entire credit union organization.

This training is ideal for both new and developing compliance professionals seeking a strong operational foundation. Registration is open through March 15, 2026, but space is limited. Invest in confident, capable compliance leadership today.

What 2026 Economic Trends Mean for Credit Union Strategies

By Steve Rick, Director and Chief Economist, TruStage

As 2025 winds down, credit unions are looking ahead to a year that promises both opportunities and challenges. Economic signals suggest 2026 will not be a repeat of the last decade’s boom times, but it won’t be a disaster either.

Inflation: Higher, but manageable

Inflation will likely climb above the Federal Reserve’s two percent target, reaching 3.2 to 3.3 percent in early 2026. Why? Tariffs. Many firms have absorbed tariff costs so far, but they’ll eventually start passing those costs along to consumers. For credit unions, this means members will feel the pinch in everyday expenses, and lending strategies will probably need to adapt.

Interest rates: Cuts are coming

The Fed cut rates by 25 basis points in December, and they may cut another 50 basis points in 2026. The Fed is pulling its foot off the brake and easing out of restrictive territory. For CUs, lower rates could stimulate demand for auto loans and other credit products. That’s good news for loan growth, but it also means tighter margins on deposits.

Economic growth: Slow, not stalled

Despite inflationary pressure, I am not forecasting a recession in 2026. Instead, expect below-trend growth. For credit unions, this translates into a stable but cautious environment. Members may not be spending aggressively, but to keep the car analogies going; they’re unlikely to slam the brakes entirely.

Stock market: Lofty highs and looming risks

The S&P 500 has soared 16 percent year-to-date, 49 percent over the last two years, and 84 percent over the last five years. That’s created a wealth effect for the top 10 percent of Americans who own most stocks. But there could be trouble looming. Margin debt has ballooned to $1.1 trillion, up 34 percent in a year. If markets correct sharply, consumer confidence could take a hit, and members might pull back on spending and borrowing.

Valuation concerns and the AI factor

The Shiller P/E ratio is 41, the second highest level ever. The Shiller Ratio (CAPE) measures stock market value by comparing current prices to the average of 10 years of inflation-adjusted earnings, with higher ratios signaling lower future returns.

Much of the market surge is tied to the “Magnificent Seven” tech stocks and AI optimism. If AI fails to deliver the productivity gains investors expect, a bubble could burst. While I don’t foresee a crash, there are parallels to past speculative periods. For credit unions, a market downturn could mean members shifting focus to savings and liquidity.

Nightmare scenarios: What could go wrong?

I’m not forecasting doom, but I am watching several risks: trade wars escalating beyond tariffs, geopolitical shocks such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict spreading, commercial real estate stress with office vacancies and refinancing challenges, and falling home prices in states like Texas, Florida and California, which could ripple into consumer confidence.

Any of these could trigger a recession or at least a sharp slowdown. For CUs, that means preparing for potential spikes in delinquencies and shifts in member behavior.

What it all means for credit unions

The big picture? 2026 looks like a year of moderate inflation, easing rates and cautious growth. Credit unions should expect members to feel cost pressures while benefiting from lower borrowing costs. Loan demand—especially autos—may rise, but margins will tighten. Market volatility could influence member sentiment, making liquidity and risk management critical.

I am not forecasting a recession—just a little bit below-trend economic growth. For credit unions, that’s a call to stay nimble, focus on member needs and prepare for a year that’s more about managing risk than chasing record growth.

The views expressed here are those of the author 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.

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This week in our blog, we’re sharing EXCEL 26 sponsorship opportunities and the Young Professional Commission nominations are now open. Plus, see the latest community initiatives from credit unions across the state and this year’s Crash the GAC winner. Get the latest industry news in the New York Minute!

Sponsorship Opportunities for EXCEL 26!

Looking to increase your organization’s visibility while supporting the credit union movement? EXCEL 26 sponsorship opportunities are now open, with options ranging from $500 to $5,000.

Your EXCEL 26 sponsorship will help to support events such as:

• Wine Pull benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals
• Trivia Night hosted by the Young Professionals Commission
• Bingo and the EXCEL 26 Kickoff Party
• Saturday Evening Gala
• And more!

Each sponsorship level includes unique promotional benefits before, during, and after Convention events. Learn more and save your spot today!

Submit Your Nominations: Young Professionals Commission

The Association is now accepting nominations for the Young Professionals Commission, a group dedicated to engaging and empowering the next generation of credit union leaders across New York State.

Key dates:
Submission deadline: February 27, 2026
Nominees notified: March 20, 2026

Eligible nominees must be age 39 or younger and employed by an Association member credit union. Members serve two-year terms, with a maximum of two consecutive terms.

Learn more and throw your hat in the ring today!

Sidney Federal Credit Union Announces $1 Million Initiative

Sidney Federal Credit Union has announced a $1 million community support initiative for 2026, reinforcing its commitment to local impact.

Titled Why SFCU? 1 Million Reasons, the yearlong initiative focuses on four essential areas:

• Housing
• Food and basic needs
• Education
• Transportation

Rather than one-time donations, the program emphasizes lasting impact through financial support, community partnerships, and employee volunteer efforts. Through this effort, SFCU continues to live the credit union philosophy of people helping people in tangible, everyday ways.

Northern CU’s Madison Sebella Named New York Crash the GAC Winner

Congratulations to Madison Sebella, Digital Engagement Professional at Northern Credit Union, on being selected as New York’s 2026 Crash the GAC winner! Madison was chosen from a highly competitive national pool of emerging credit union leaders to participate in this prestigious leadership and advocacy program.

Crash the GAC, hosted by the Filene Research Institute, brings rising professionals to Washington, D.C. for America’s Credit Unions’ Governmental Affairs Conference, taking place March 1–5, 2026. Participants gain a front-row seat to national advocacy efforts, connect with industry leaders, and deepen their understanding of the credit union movement’s impact.

Madison’s selection is a testament to her talent, passion, and commitment to the credit union mission, and a point of pride for New York’s credit union community. We look forward to seeing the impact she’ll make at GAC and beyond!

Broadview FCU Delivers Winter Essentials Across the State

As extreme cold swept across the state, Broadview Federal Credit Union expanded its Code Blue initiative to help protect vulnerable individuals and families.

This winter, Broadview is providing $60,000 in essential supplies to 28 shelters across the Capital Region, Buffalo, Syracuse, and Binghamton, doubling last year’s reach. Donations include 3,400 winter hats, 4,000 pairs of socks, 2,000 fleece blankets, gloves, hand warmers, and personal care items.

Broadview employees also volunteered their time to sort, package, and deliver supplies ahead of dangerous weather. The initiative reflects Broadview’s commitment to acting quickly, compassionately, and in partnership with local shelters when communities need it most.

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In the latest New York Minute, save your spot in our webinar series, Compliance Essentials for Frontline Staff! Plus, see new additions to the FOCUS New York and Foundation board of trustees, see which industry leader is advocating at a national level, and more! Get the latest credit union updates in our weekly blog.

Register Now: Compliance Essentials for Frontline Staff

Frontline credit union staff focus on member service, but compliance plays a critical role in every interaction. To help staff stay current, the Association is once again offering Compliance Essentials for Frontline Staff, a five-part, on-demand webinar series designed specifically for frontline roles.

This self-paced series covers the latest rules, regulations, and laws that impact day-to-day operations. Participants who complete all five sessions will earn a Compliance Specialist Certificate for Frontline Staff, strengthening both individual expertise and institutional compliance.

The series is offered on-demand only and will remain available through December 31, 2026, making it easy to fit into busy schedules. Registration is per credit union, and the program is open to frontline staff from Association-affiliated credit unions.

Register now to ensure your frontline team is confident, compliant, and prepared.

New Trustees Appointed to FOCUS New York and the New York Credit Union Foundation

The Association is pleased to welcome new trustees to both FOCUS New York and the New York Credit Union Foundation, strengthening leadership across New York’s credit union community.

New trustees appointed to the New York Credit Union Foundation include:

• Dave Gordon, Vice President of Sales, TruStage
• Jennifer Gunn, Director of Business Development & Community Affairs, People’s Alliance FCU
• Amber Taylor, President & CEO, St. Lawrence FCU

Notably, Kevin Mietlicki, President & CEO of Alternatives FCU, was reappointed to a 3-year term. Domenic Vero, AVP and Director of Audit at Cornerstone Community FCU, was also reappointed as the Young Professional designee.

FOCUS New York welcomes Leah Dubrey of UFirst FCU as a new trustee, serving as the organization’s Young Professional designee.

We extend a warm welcome and look forward to their leadership and continued commitment to advancing credit unions across New York State.

John Linzey Named to Small Credit Union Advocacy Advisory Panel

John Linzey, President & CEO of Generations United Federal Credit Union, has been named to the newly launched Small Credit Union Advocacy Advisory Panel by America’s Credit Unions.

The panel is made up of 30 small credit union leaders from across the country and was created to elevate the voices of small credit unions in national advocacy efforts. More than 100 nominations were submitted, highlighting strong interest from small credit unions seeking a greater role in shaping policy priorities.

Panel members were selected to reflect geographic diversity, asset size, and professional expertise. The group will help identify emerging challenges, provide practitioner-level insight, and inform advocacy strategies on Capitol Hill and with federal and state policymakers.

Linzey’s appointment ensures New York credit unions are represented as these important conversations continue.

First Source FCU Holds Annual ‘Socks to the Rescue’ Campaign

First Source Federal Credit Union kicked off its second annual Socks to the Rescue campaign with a big community impact—collecting 5,400 pairs of socks in one weekend to benefit the Rescue Mission of Utica and the Rome Rescue Mission.

The campaign launched through partnerships with the Utica Comets, the Save of the Day Foundation, and Utica University Men’s Hockey, with sock collections held during two hockey games. Community support was strong, turning game nights into meaningful giving opportunities.

The donation drive continues through Saturday, February 14, with new socks accepted at all First Source FCU branch locations. Supporters can also donate by ordering socks through Amazon for direct shipment.

Together, First Source FCU and its community are great examples of the credit union mission of People Helping People.

Nominations Open for Inclusiv’s Annie Vamper Helping Hands Award

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Annie Vamper Helping Hands Award, presented by Inclusiv. This prestigious honor recognizes leaders whose compassion, advocacy, and service have helped shape the credit union movement.

Established in 1993, the award celebrates individuals with a lifelong commitment to serving low-income and historically underserved communities. Honorees are recognized for innovative leadership, mentorship, and advancing access to safe, affordable financial services.

Nominations are open through February 16, 2026. Award recipients will be celebrated during the Annie Vamper Helping Hands Award Luncheon at the 2026 Inclusiv Conference. Early-bird conference rates end February 12.

Help recognize a leader whose impact has left a lasting mark on our movement.

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