This week’s New York Minute highlights new professional development opportunities, recognition for credit union leadership, and continued investments in local communities. Plus, Origence explores the growing importance of AI-powered document validation in combating sophisticated fraud.

National Credit Union Foundation Opens Registration for 2027 Development Education Program

The National Credit Union Foundation has opened registration for its 2027 Credit Union Development Education (DE) program, offering credit union professionals an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the cooperative movement and its mission to improve financial well-being.

As the program approaches its 45th year, the Foundation is expanding its offerings to six in-person sessions and one virtual program. Through immersive learning, collaboration and hands-on experiences, participants explore cooperative principles, leadership and the challenges affecting members and communities. Graduates earn the Credit Union Development Educator (CUDE) designation and join a global network of credit union professionals.

Registration is now open for select 2027 sessions, with additional classes opening for registration on March 15, 2027. Interested professionals are encouraged to register early, as space is limited.

John Calabrese of First Source FCU Honored with NYS Senate Commendation Award

Congratulations to John Calabrese of First Source Federal Credit Union on receiving a New York State Senate Commendation Award! This recognition, presented by New York State Senator Joseph A. Griffo (R-Rome), celebrates Calabrese’s contributions and service, highlighting the leadership and community commitment that are central to the credit union movement.

SeaComm FCU Recognized as Small Community Lender of the Year by SBA

SeaComm Federal Credit Union has been recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) with its Small Community Lender of the Year Award, honoring the credit union’s commitment to supporting small businesses and economic development throughout the North Country. Through its business lending efforts, SeaComm helps local entrepreneurs access financing to grow their operations, create opportunities and strengthen the communities they serve.

Suffolk Credit Union Provides Grant to Nassau Boces Educational Foundation

Suffolk Credit Union is demonstrating its commitment to education and community investment through a $10,000 grant to the Nassau BOCES Educational Foundation. The Foundation works to enrich educational experiences for Nassau BOCES students by supporting innovative programs, classroom initiatives, and resources that help students succeed.

From Origence: Why AI-Powered Fraud Requires AI-Powered Document Validation

By Carmina Drummer

Credit unions have spent years modernizing indirect lending through AI-driven automation. Those investments have delivered meaningful gains in more efficient workflows, accelerated approvals and funding, and streamlined member experiences.

However, AI also enables bad actors to create more convincing and sophisticated fraud schemes, from generating fake pay stubs to creating deep-fake identities. According to Point Predictive, auto lending fraud has nearly doubled since 2015 reaching $10.4 billion in 2025.

As credit unions move toward straight-through processing where loans move from application through funding without manual intervention, lending teams must adapt to this evolving landscape and be confident in the accuracy and reliability of the data driving every lending decision.

How AI is advancing loan fraud
Traditionally, lending fraud prevention efforts focused heavily on stolen identities and third-party fraud. While those threats remain significant, recent industry data suggests a different challenge is driving most risk exposure.

In 2025, first-party fraud represented 69% of total fraud risk exposure in auto lending, according to Point Predictive. Rather than using stolen identities, borrowers may generate fraudulent bank statements, pay stubs, title documents, and employment verification letters with AI. Point Predictive estimates income and employment misrepresentation alone represent 45% of total fraud risk, accounting for $4.68B in fraud exposure.

These schemes can be difficult to detect because they often appear legitimate at first glance. Some borrowers may not even be aware of the fraud they are committing, believing they’re gaming an unfair system to qualify for an auto loan. Yet even minor inaccuracies can significantly affect underwriting decisions, portfolio performance, and downstream losses.

As a result, credit unions must embed data validation in the document processing step to catch fraud and errors before underwriting and funding.

Document processing automation plays a critical role in fraud defense
Document processing automation (DPA) is an automation solution focused on post-decision loan document processing. After your credit union approves a loan, DPA automates “stare and compare” manual document validation and review, helping lenders streamline loan fulfilment while improving consistency and efficiency.

In addition to classifying, stacking, and validating documents, AI-powered DPA extracts key data elements, identifies inconsistencies, compares data across sources, and flags potential issues in real time.

For example, DPA can identify income figures that don’t match supporting pay stubs, discrepancies between employer information and application data, altered paystub templates, or identification details that conflict across submitted records. These discrepancies can be difficult to discern by humans, and these inconsistencies might otherwise go unnoticed during manual review.

Validate documents at scale before funding
Human reviewers can identify many forms of fraud, but it’s difficult to analyze every document, data point, and application pattern at scale. AI-driven document review addresses this challenge by evaluating large volumes of structured and unstructured data simultaneously. DPA compares extracted data with third-party databases and verification sources in real time.

When the system flags anomalies, lenders can investigate before funding, rather than after losses occur. The earlier potential issues are identified, the more efficiently lenders can respond. Applications requiring further investigation can be routed to the appropriate teams, while qualified borrowers continue moving through the lending process without unnecessary delays.

Eliminating the friction of fraud prevention
Automation at the document processing stage strengthens fraud prevention without sacrificing the speed and efficiency that borrowers, dealers, and lending teams expect. Unlike in the past when stronger controls often meant more manual work with additional reviews, longer funding timelines, and more dealer follow-up, DPA allows risk management and operational efficiency to work together.

With AI-powered verification embedded within the document processing workflow, fraud checks can occur more consistently for every loan application. This allows credit unions to minimize rework, improve funding speed, and stay at the top of dealers’ go-to lender list, all while reducing risk exposure.

The evolving role of AI in lending
Early AI adoption centered on productivity. The next phase focuses on trust, verification, and decision quality.

DPA helps establish that trust foundation by transforming documents into organized, validated data that credit unions can use with greater confidence. By identifying inconsistencies earlier and helping lenders focus attention where it is needed most, DPA gives credit unions a sharper tool for staying ahead of increasingly sophisticated lending fraud. To talk to an Origence expert about optimizing your document processes, contact us here.

About Origence
Origence is a leading technology provider transforming the lending experience for credit unions and their members. Established in 1994 as a credit union service organization, Origence has helped credit unions originate nearly $600 billion in loans through a network of connected technology solutions including Origence CUDL®, Origence Lending Services, Origence arc, and FI Connect™. Learn more at origence.com and follow us on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

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We’re highlighting the career and contributions of Ryan Roberts, President & CEO of Great Meadow Federal Credit Union and current Chair of the New York Credit Union Association’s Board of Directors. With more than two decades of experience in the credit union industry, Ryan brings a unique perspective shaped by his passion for leadership, collaboration, and serving members. His commitment to strengthening credit unions of all sizes and fostering cooperation throughout the movement continues to guide his work with the Association.

Can you share a brief introduction about yourself, your background, and your professional journey?

My professional journey has been a little unconventional. Although I have an educational background in economics and an MBA, my early career actually took me into radio, live music promotion, and eventually managing a performing arts venue before transitioning into the credit union industry.

Those experiences taught me a great deal about people, marketing, relationships, and leadership, including some lessons I did not fully appreciate until years later. I had a tendency to take on too much myself rather than developing the people around me, something I have continued working to improve throughout my career.

I began my credit union career in lending and operations and have now spent more than two decades in the industry. Along the way, I have worn many hats and learned that building a successful organization is not just about what you accomplish today, but also about developing the people who will lead it tomorrow.

What drew you to the credit union industry?

Credit unions have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My mother managed credit unions and owned a small business that provided management services to them, so I grew up around the industry. I often joke that I drank the credit union Kool-Aid at a pretty young age, but there is a lot of truth to that.

My early career in live music was about bringing people together and creating experiences that made them happy. Credit unions gave me an opportunity to take that same passion in a different direction. Helping someone purchase their first car or home, build credit, or find a solution when they have been told no elsewhere can have a lasting impact on their life.

Today that opportunity to make a meaningful difference is still what I love most about this industry.

What motivated you to join the Association board of directors?

I have always had a particular passion for smaller credit unions and the important role they play in serving their members and communities. Whether they serve an employee group, an association, or a rural community, many of these institutions accomplish remarkable things with limited resources. I wanted to help ensure their perspectives and challenges were represented.

At the same time, I believe credit unions of every size have an important place in our movement. Our institutions may look very different, but the principles that brought us together remain the same.

I wanted to give back to an industry that has given me so much and help us make better use of what should be our greatest strength: cooperation. We have incredible knowledge, resources, and talented people throughout this movement. The more willing we are to share and work together, the stronger we can all become.

In your view, what makes the Association distinct from other financial associations?

New York is an incredibly diverse state. We are home to the financial capital of the world, but also to rural and urban communities with very little access to financial institutions and regions facing very different economic challenges. Our credit unions reflect that diversity.

I think that diversity is one of NYCUA’s greatest strengths. Beyond its important work in advocacy, education, and support, NYCUA has an opportunity to make cooperation something tangible, bringing institutions together to share ideas, solve problems, and create opportunities that might not be possible individually.

Why are credit unions important to New Yorkers and the broader community?

Credit unions provide an important alternative in financial services because our purpose is fundamentally different. We exist to serve our members, not outside shareholders, and that creates opportunities to approach financial decisions differently.

Whether it is helping someone establish credit, purchase a home, manage debt, or navigate an unexpected financial challenge, we can make a real difference in people’s lives. Sometimes the greatest impact comes from taking the time to understand someone’s circumstances and finding a responsible way to say yes when others might say no.

When individuals and families become financially stronger, our communities become stronger. That is an important part of what makes credit unions valuable to New York.

What role do you believe a board member plays in the success of the Association?

I believe our primary responsibilities are governance, strategy, and ensuring the Association remains focused on the needs of its members.

That starts with listening and understanding the challenges and opportunities facing credit unions throughout New York, rather than viewing issues solely through the lens of our own institutions.

Board members also need to ask difficult questions, challenge assumptions, and think strategically about the future. Good governance is not simply reviewing reports or approving recommendations. It is helping establish a direction, supporting leadership, and ensuring accountability while representing the interests of the credit unions we serve.

Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your tenure on the Board?

When I first joined the board, I knew very few of the other directors. Today, I consider them friends and trusted colleagues whom I turn to for ideas, advice, and perspective. They are people I admire and appreciate more than I probably let them know.

I have also enjoyed getting to know the young professionals in our movement. Their enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and willingness to question how things have always been done give me optimism for our future.

What Association initiatives or projects are you most excited about?

Advocacy remains incredibly important to me, especially the work of FOCUS NY and our efforts to help policymakers understand how credit unions improve the financial lives of New Yorkers.

I also want to see credit unions help shape conversations about emerging products like earned wage access and how we can responsibly meet members’ financial needs. We should be helping lead those discussions. Beyond financial education, I am interested in how we help members put that knowledge into practice and build lasting financial stability.

What advice would you give to someone considering a board position with the Association?

I would encourage them to do it, with a willingness to contribute and learn. You do not need to have all the answers. Listen, ask questions, challenge ideas respectfully, and share your experiences.

Board service gives you the opportunity to represent your peers, work with people who bring different perspectives, and continue growing as a leader.

In what ways has your experience on the board been rewarding?

Serving on the board has helped me become a better leader by broadening my perspective beyond my own credit union. Learning from leaders of different-sized institutions and communities has challenged some of my assumptions and given me ideas to bring back to my credit union.

It is rewarding to contribute to work that benefits credit unions and their members across the state.

Why should someone consider joining the Association board or becoming more involved with credit unions in general?

I believe in servant leadership and helping others succeed. Getting involved is one way to put that belief into practice and give back to our movement.

You do not need to serve on a board to make a difference. Mentoring a young professional, participating in advocacy, sharing ideas with another credit union, or volunteering your time can all make an impact.

The more people who become involved, the stronger our movement will be.

Outside of the Association and your professional life, what are some of your passions or hobbies?

My family keeps me pretty busy. My wife is a school administrator, and we have three children, a high school senior and twins in eighth grade, so there is never a shortage of activities.

I have coached hockey for nearly 20 years and enjoy golf, traveling, and following my Clemson Tigers, Boston Red Sox, and Swansea City Football Club.

I am also a huge live music fan, particularly improvisational music. There is something about not knowing where the music might take you that allows me to escape and simply enjoy the moment, something I admittedly have a hard time doing otherwise. I spent a lot of my younger years traveling to shows at places like the original Higher Ground in Burlington and Wetlands Preserve in New York City.

As a possibly questionable fun fact, I have seen Phish perform live 78 times and counting.

What’s one book or resource you’d recommend to someone looking to understand the world of credit unions better?

My best recommendation is to visit other credit unions. Some of my most valuable lessons have come from talking with people in our industry and seeing how they serve their members.

I also started a “Team Library” in each of our branches with books about leadership, teamwork, and service. Good to Great, Atomic Habits, and Delivering Happiness are a few that have influenced my thinking.

Share a fun fact or a memorable anecdote related to your time at the Association.

One of the things I never anticipated when I first became involved with NYCUA was the genuine friendships I would develop. What started as professional relationships with credit union leaders across the state has turned into friendships that go well beyond our work. It is a reminder that some of the most rewarding parts of this movement are the people you meet along the way.

Please include any additional information you’d like to share:

I remain optimistic about the future of credit unions, but we need to be willing to challenge ourselves and adapt. There is a place for credit unions of every size, and cooperation should be more than something we talk about. Sharing expertise, developing our people, and helping one another succeed are practical ways to strengthen our movement and better serve the members who count on us.

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Ryan’s dedication to the credit union movement reflects a strong belief in the power of cooperation, thoughtful leadership and member-focused service. Through his advocacy for credit unions of all sizes and his commitment to developing future leaders, he continues to help strengthen the Association and the communities its members serve. We are grateful for his leadership and contributions as NYCUA Board Chair.

From spotlighting credit union leadership and gathering valuable member feedback to important regulatory developments, advocacy opportunities and community fundraising initiatives, this week’s New York Minute highlights the collaboration and commitment driving New York’s credit union movement forward.

Meet Our Board: Ryan Roberts

Ryan Roberts, President & CEO of Great Meadow Federal Credit Union and current Chair of the New York Credit Union Association’s Board of Directors, brings more than two decades of experience and a strong commitment to collaboration, leadership, and the credit union movement. His passion for supporting credit unions of all sizes and strengthening the communities they serve has made him a valuable leader within the Association.

Learn more about his career, leadership philosophy, and insights in the full blog!

2026 Annual Membership Survey

Your feedback helps shape the future of the New York Credit Union Association! The 2026 NYCUA Membership Survey is now available, giving credit union professionals an opportunity to share their perspectives and help guide the Association’s programs, resources, and initiatives.

As NYCUA continues its commitment to supporting credit unions across New York State, member input plays an important role in identifying priorities, strengthening services, and ensuring the Association continues to meet the evolving needs of the credit union community.

We encourage all members to take a few moments to complete the survey and share their valuable feedback. Your voice matters, and your insights will help the Association continue delivering meaningful value to its members.

New from CU in New York: Compliance Roundup

A brand new edition of CU in New York is now available, and it’s ready to help you turn the latest regulatory developments into confident, practical action.

In this edition: Compliance Roundup

Written by Jeremy Newman, Association Vice President of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs, CU in New York is where policy meets practical. Each post breaks down what’s changing, what it means for New York credit unions, and what to put on your to-do list, all with clear analysis and a little humor along the way.

Have a topic you’d like broken down or a regulatory question on your mind? Send it to jeremy.newman@nycua.org and it could inspire a future edition.

Join Us on Capitol Hill for Swearing-In Events January 3–4

America’s Credit Unions is inviting credit union leaders from across the country to Washington, D.C., January 3–4, 2027, for a special opportunity to connect with newly elected and returning members of Congress as the 120th Congress begins.

With one of the largest incoming freshman classes in decades, these events offer credit union advocates an opportunity to strengthen relationships with lawmakers, demonstrate the importance of the credit union movement, and help set the stage for future advocacy efforts.

Attendees will have access to a hospitality suite in the Capitol complex to watch the swearing-in ceremony, along with many opportunities to participate in networking events. A hotel room block will also be available, with details provided following RSVP.

Credit union leaders are encouraged to participate and help ensure the credit union movement has a strong presence on Capitol Hill as a new Congress takes office.

Join CU4Kids in Celebrating 40 Years

Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids) is celebrating 40 years of supporting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals with a special fundraising campaign, 40 Days of Giving, running November 2 through December 11, 2026.

For four decades, credit unions have come together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families receiving care in their communities. This anniversary campaign invites credit unions, their employees, and supporters to continue that tradition by contributing to a shared fundraising effort.

To celebrate this milestone, CU4Kids is offering special donation incentives. Credit unions across New York are encouraged to participate and help celebrate 40 years of generosity, collaboration, and community impact. Every contribution helps support children and families receiving care through Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

Comment Period Open for 2027-Q1 Call Report Form Changes

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) is seeking public comments on proposed changes to the Call Report Form 5300, scheduled for the first quarter of 2027. The proposed updates include a new Schedule J, Payment Stablecoin Activities, designed to enhance NCUA’s offsite supervision of credit union activities involving payment stablecoins.

Key proposed changes include:

• Custody of Reserve Assets: Eight new reporting accounts for credit unions holding reserve assets on behalf of permitted payment stablecoin issuer (PPSI) third parties.
• Cryptographic Key Custody and Control: Nine new reporting accounts to provide greater visibility into cryptographic key custody and control activities.
• Direct Exposure to PPSIs: Five new reporting accounts to track credit unions’ direct exposure to permitted payment stablecoin issuers.
• Payment Stablecoins on Balance Sheets: Four new reporting accounts to capture payment stablecoins held directly on credit union balance sheets.

These proposed reporting requirements are intended to strengthen regulatory oversight and provide NCUA with additional information to monitor emerging financial activities.

The public comment period is open through December 8, 2026. Credit unions are encouraged to review the proposal and share any questions, concerns or feedback with the Association.

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From important compliance developments and upcoming educational opportunities to leadership recognition and meaningful community initiatives, New York’s credit unions continue to demonstrate their commitment to the industry and the people they serve.

Compliance Quarterly Returns November 4 with Sweepstakes Promotion Guidance

The New York Credit Union Association’s Compliance Quarterly series returns Wednesday, November 4, at 11 a.m. with its third session of 2026, “So, you want to run a Sweepstakes Promotion, what could possibly go wrong?”

Led by NYCUA General Counsel Mitchell Pollack, this interactive webinar series addresses frequently asked compliance questions while providing opportunities for education, clarification, and discussion among credit union peers.

Join Mitch for the upcoming session focused on sweepstakes promotions and the compliance considerations credit unions should be aware of when planning these initiatives.

Great Erie FCU Announces Retirement of President & CEO Robyn Young

Great Erie Federal Credit Union has announced that President and CEO Robyn Young will retire effective November 1, 2026, following years of dedicated leadership and service to the credit union movement.

Throughout her tenure, Young helped strengthen Great Erie’s financial foundation, modernize its technology, and expand membership opportunities across Erie County and surrounding communities. Beyond her leadership at Great Erie, Young has served on the New York Credit Union Association’s Board of Directors since 2012, including as Board Chair from 2021 to 2023.

“Robyn has been a true champion of the credit union difference throughout her career,” said Association Chief Operating Officer Chris Pajak. “Her commitment to education, her investment in developing future leaders, and her steady hand in guiding Great Erie through growth and transformation have strengthened not only her credit union but our entire movement. Robyn leads with purpose and heart, and the culture of collaboration she built at Great Erie will continue to benefit members well into the future.”

“On behalf of the Association’s Board, we thank Robyn for her vision, dedication, and lasting contributions to New York’s credit union community,” said Ryan Roberts, Association Board Chair and President & CEO of Great Meadow FCU. “She has always understood that credit unions exist to improve lives, and her work expanding access to fair financial services across Erie County reflects the very best of our cooperative principles. Through her service on the Association’s Board, Robyn helped strengthen our shared purpose and guide our work on behalf of credit unions and their members across the state. We congratulate Robyn on a remarkable career and look forward to Great Erie’s continued success under Michael Pierino’s leadership.”

Executive Vice President of Operations Michael Pierino will succeed Young as CEO. Young will transition into a support role beginning November 1 to help ensure a smooth leadership transition.

Legal Update: New York Employers Must Stock Overdose Reversal Medication

Beginning December 12, 2026, new Section 27-f of the New York Labor Law will require employers to include an opioid antagonist, such as naloxone (commonly known by the brand name Narcan), in their workplace first aid supplies; the law was amended in February 2026 to limit the requirement to employers federally mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to have first-aid kits. On September 23, the New York Department of Labor (DOL) proposed regulations explaining how employers would comply. Both state- and federally chartered credit unions should prepare. The law has no credit union exemption or minimum employee count, and a federal charter does not by itself exempt a credit union.

Coverage is tied to OSHA’s first aid standard. If OSHA requires a credit union to keep first aid supplies at a New York location, the new law applies there. This generally includes branches, headquarters, and administrative offices, regardless of size. Each staffed location should be reviewed separately, and supplies at headquarters do not satisfy the requirement at a branch. A location that relies entirely on an adjacent hospital or clinic for first aid may not be covered, but that position should be documented and reviewed by counsel.

Under the proposed regulations, covered employers would have to:

• Keep enough naloxone on hand to respond quickly to a suspected overdose. There is no fixed number; employers would consider layout, foot traffic, overdose risk, and prior incidents.
• Store supplies where employees can reach them quickly and tell employees where they are. Locked storage is discouraged but permitted for legitimate security reasons if trained employees can still get to it promptly.
• Have at least one trained employee present throughout business hours at each covered location. Training must be consistent with New York health department materials.
• Keep supplies sealed in original packaging with instructions, inspect them regularly, and promptly replace expired, used, or missing doses.
• Document any arrangement to share compliance with other tenants in a written plan available to DOL on request.

The trained-employee requirement will likely be the most demanding for credit unions. Branches should train enough backups to cover vacations, sick days, breaks, and Saturday hours. New York’s Good Samaritan law generally protects employees who administer naloxone in good faith during an emergency. Credit unions may want to review the law’s specifics with counsel when developing training materials. Separately, OSHA issued a fact sheet on September 24 encouraging all employers to plan for workplace overdose emergencies; it is guidance, not a mandate.

The regulations are still proposed and would take effect upon final adoption, with no separate grace period. Regardless, credit unions should plan to comply with the statute by December 12. That means assigning a program owner, reviewing each location, purchasing supplies (often available at low or no cost through state health programs), training employees and backups, and adding overdose response to existing emergency plans.

Applications Open to Crash the GAC

Applications are now open for Crash the GAC 2027, an opportunity for emerging credit union leaders to experience advocacy firsthand at the Governmental Affairs Conference in Washington, D.C.

Organized through the Filene Research Institute’s Crash Program, the initiative connects rising professionals with credit union leaders, industry discussions, and opportunities to engage with the issues shaping the future of the movement.

Credit union professionals interested in developing their leadership skills, expanding their networks, and gaining a deeper understanding of advocacy are encouraged to explore this opportunity.

Rochester Credit Union Leaders Recognized on 2026 Banking & Finance Power List

Six New York credit union leaders have been recognized on the Rochester Business Journal’s 2026 Power List for Banking & Finance, highlighting influential professionals helping shape the region’s financial services industry.

This year’s recognized credit union leaders include:

• Bob McFadden, Finger Lakes FCU
• Tom Rogers, ESL FCU
• Jeff Bocach, Advantage FCU
• Laurie Baker, The Summit FCU
• Pamela Heald, Reliant Credit Union
• Tom Dambra, Family First of New York FCU

The annual list recognizes leaders whose work and contributions help strengthen the financial services landscape. Congratulations to these credit union professionals on their recognition and continued leadership throughout the industry.

Teachers FCU Hosts Executive Leadership Forum with Scott Simpson, America’s Credit Unions President & CEO

Teachers Federal Credit Union recently welcomed America’s Credit Unions President and CEO Scott Simpson for an Executive Leadership Forum, bringing together leaders from credit unions across New York.

The event provided an opportunity for credit union executives to connect, exchange perspectives, and discuss the priorities shaping the future of the credit union movement. Through conversations focused on industry challenges and opportunities, participants reinforced the importance of collaboration and shared leadership in advancing the credit union mission.

Sunmark Foundation Celebrates ICU Day Honorees with $20,000 in Awards

The Sunmark Charitable Community Foundation celebrated its 2026 International Credit Union Day honorees, awarding a total of $20,000 to local nonprofit organizations during its eighth annual ICU Day Awards reception at Sunmark Credit Union’s Latham headquarters.

This year’s People Helping People Awards recognized Shelters of Saratoga, The Legal Project and Building Blocks Together Development Corp. for their commitment to strengthening local communities.

The Foundation also honored Emelia Lewandowski with the Susan V. Siegel Community Service Leader Award for her dedication to supporting individuals with disabilities and Akshita Bandari with the “It’s Cool to Be Kind” Student Award for her efforts to provide essential resources and support to communities locally and internationally.

The annual awards celebrate individuals and organizations that exemplify the credit union philosophy of people helping people.

The Summit FCU Helps Build 116 Beds for Children in Need

The Summit Federal Credit Union continues to make a meaningful difference through its partnership with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring children have a safe, comfortable place to sleep.

Through employee volunteer efforts and bed-building events throughout the year in Rochester, Buffalo and Syracuse, The Summit has helped build 116 beds, providing essential support to children and families in need.

The initiative reflects The Summit’s commitment to community service and the credit union philosophy of people helping people, demonstrating how collaboration and volunteerism can make a lasting impact.

ESL FCU Employees Volunteer to Benefit Full Circle Home

Employees of ESL Federal Credit Union recently came together to support Full Circle Home, an organization dedicated to helping deployed service members stay connected with their loved ones.

More than 50 ESL employees participated in volunteer gift-wrapping events across several offices, preparing more than 3,300 gifts to bring joy to military families during the holiday season.

Through their time and teamwork, ESL employees demonstrated the spirit of giving back and the important role credit unions play in supporting their communities.

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Happy International Credit Union Day! From opportunities to get involved and support members to new industry resources and credit unions making an impact across New York, this week’s New York Minute highlights the latest news and updates from our credit union community.

Nominations Open for Young Professionals Commission

The New York Credit Union Association is accepting nominations for its Young Professionals Commission (YPC), offering emerging credit union professionals an opportunity to get involved, collaborate with peers, and contribute to the future of the credit union movement.

Credit unions are encouraged to recognize and nominate young professionals who demonstrate leadership, initiative and a commitment to the industry. The nomination deadline is Friday, November 6.

Scholarship Program Has Launched for CU Members

The New York Credit Union Association’s 2027 College Scholarship Program has launched for credit union members. Participating credit unions can now begin promoting the opportunity to eligible members and help students take the next step toward their educational goals.

The program provides credit unions with an opportunity to support students in their communities while reinforcing their commitment to education and financial well-being. Participating credit unions are encouraged to share scholarship information through their websites, social media channels and member communications.

America’s Credit Unions Launches Cybersecurity, Fraud, and Vendor Risk Resources Hub

As fraud and cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, America’s Credit Unions has launched a new resource hub to help credit unions protect their organizations and members.

Introduced in conjunction with Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the Cybersecurity, Fraud and Vendor Risk Resources Hub brings together tools, educational materials, and guidance to strengthen prevention, preparedness, and response efforts. The initiative will continue through the end of the year, providing credit unions with resources to navigate emerging risks.

Reminder: Use Your Complimentary Codes for CU Webinar Network

Don’t forget to take advantage of a valuable Association membership benefit! Member credit unions receive two complimentary access codes to use toward webinars of their choice through the Credit Union Webinar Network.

With educational opportunities covering a variety of topics, these codes offer a convenient way to support professional development and ongoing learning at no additional cost. Codes are valid through December 31, 2026, so be sure to redeem them before they expire.

AmeriCU Credit Union Members Donate Nearly 500 Pounds of Food to Local Food Banks

AmeriCU Credit Union members combined identity protection with community giving during the credit union’s annual Shred Days, donating nearly 500 pounds of nonperishable food to local food banks. Throughout the summer and fall, members attended Shred Day events at AmeriCU financial centers to securely dispose of sensitive documents while supporting neighbors in need.

In addition to food donations, members contributed monetary gifts benefiting The Country Pantry, King Ferry Food Pantry, CNY Food Bank and the Regional Food Bank.

The initiative reflects AmeriCU’s commitment to strengthening the communities it serves by turning an everyday member service into an opportunity to give back.

Municipal Credit Union Recognized by Crains NY Business as 2026 Best Places to Work in NYC

Municipal Credit Union has been recognized as one of Crain’s New York Business 2026 Best Places to Work in New York City, celebrating organizations that prioritize positive workplace cultures and employee experiences.

The annual recognition highlights employers that create environments where employees feel supported, engaged and empowered to succeed. The honor reflects Municipal Credit Union’s commitment to its team and the people who help serve its members every day.

First Choice Financial FCU Receives Anthony C. Buanno Community Action Award

First Choice Financial Federal Credit Union has received the Anthony C. Buanno Community Action Award, recognizing its commitment to community involvement and service. The honor celebrates the importance of giving back and reflects the credit union movement’s longstanding dedication to making a positive difference in the communities it serves.

Cornerstone Community FCU voted Best Credit Union in the 716

Cornerstone Community Federal Credit Union has been voted Best Credit Union in the 716 for the third consecutive year, earning recognition in The Buffalo News’ annual community awards.

With nearly 70 years of service in Western New York, Cornerstone Community FCU has built strong relationships with its members and the communities it serves. The recognition reflects the continued trust and support of local residents and the credit union’s longstanding commitment to investing in the region it calls home.

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