In our latest New York Minute blog, we’re highlighting this year’s Diamond Award winners! Plus, save your spot at upcoming events, see industry updates, and more. Get the latest credit union news in our weekly blog.

NY Credit Unions Named 2026 Diamond Award Winners

New York credit unions made a powerful showing in the 2026 Diamond Awards from America’s Credit Unions, highlighting innovation, creativity, and measurable impact across the movement.

From bold rebrands to high-performing marketing campaigns and community-driven initiatives, these awards showcase how credit unions across the state are pushing boundaries and delivering real results for their members.

2026 Diamond Award winners from New York include:

• Beginnings Credit Union – Recognized for a purpose-driven rebrand and new corporate identity built to support long-term growth and consistency
• First Heritage Federal Credit Union – Honored for its “Friends”-inspired internal referral campaign and a full redesign of 19 payment cards with tap-to-pay technology
• Municipal Credit Union – Awarded for its “We’re Here for It” campaign, which drove a 71% increase in awareness and strong membership growth
• Reliant Credit Union – Recognized for its cinematic “Generations of Wealth” commercial, created with authenticity and storytelling at its core
• SeaComm Federal Credit Union – Honored for its Kids Corner newsletter, designed to teach young members financial habits through engaging, in-house content
• ServU Federal Credit Union – Recognized for its “Gear Up for School” community event, distributing over 100 backpacks and drawing strong local engagement
• Sidney Federal Credit Union – Awarded for its humorous, data-driven “Spend $500, Earn $100” Mastercard campaign that boosted card usage and engagement
• Visions Federal Credit Union – Honored for its New Member Days campaign, which generated a 161% lift in new member growth and strong early engagement

Together, these initiatives demonstrate the power of creativity and community focus. Whether through marketing innovation, financial education, or hands-on community support, New York credit unions continue to lead the way in advancing the credit union mission. See all the winners and their work at the link below!

Municipal Credit Union Foundation Donates $200,000 to City Harvest

As affordability challenges continue to impact families, the MCU Foundation
is announcing a $200,000 donation to City Harvest to combat rising food insecurity across New York City. This donation alone can help feed more than 465,000 New Yorkers for a day.

Beyond financial support, MCU employees will also volunteer throughout the year, reinforcing the credit union commitment to community impact. This partnership reflects a shared mission: ensuring no New Yorker has to choose between paying rent and putting food on the table. City Harvest rescues over 86 million pounds of food annually, including more than 61 million pounds of fresh produce.

At a time when one in six New Yorkers faces food insecurity, this initiative demonstrates how credit unions continue to live out the philosophy of people helping people in meaningful, measurable ways.

Save Your Spot: America’s Credit Unions’ Congressional Caucus 2026

Credit union professionals, this is your chance to be in the room where decisions are made at Congressional Caucus 2026.

Hosted in Washington, DC from September 13 through 15, this high-impact event brings together CEOs, board members, and advocacy leaders from across the country for direct engagement with lawmakers. With legislative and regulatory pressures evolving rapidly and midterm elections on the horizon, this is a critical moment to ensure the credit union voice is heard.

Attendees can expect:

• Expert-led policy briefings
• Strategic advocacy sessions
• Coordinated meetings with members of Congress
• High-value networking with industry leaders

This conference is a hands-on advocacy experience designed to drive real outcomes. Whether you’re shaping policy strategy or strengthening relationships with elected officials, Congressional Caucus equips you with the tools and access needed to make an impact. Save your spot and learn more below!

Register Today: Alloya’s Credit Union Leadership Symposium

Registration is now open for Alloya Corporate FCU’s annual Credit Union Leadership Symposium, a highly anticipated event that continues to draw leaders from across the country.

For more than a decade, the symposium has delivered a strong blend of education, networking, and industry insights, making it a must-attend for professionals looking to grow their leadership impact. Attendees can expect engaging sessions focused on emerging trends, strategic thinking, and operational excellence within the credit union space.

But it’s not all business. This year’s experience includes a special outing to the iconic Grand Ole Opry, a memorable opportunity to connect with peers in a uniquely entertaining setting.

The combination of high-quality programming and one-of-a-kind experiences continues to set this event apart. For credit union leaders looking to learn and build meaningful connections, the Leadership Symposium is a must! Learn more and register below.

National Credit Union Foundation Announces New DE Alumni Advisory Group

The National Credit Union Foundation has announced the creation of its inaugural DE Alumni Advisory Group, a new initiative designed to strengthen engagement and amplify impact across the Development Education (DE) community. This group brings together ten leaders from across the country to help shape alumni experiences, expand collaboration, and further the credit union mission of financial well-being.

Notably, New York is represented by Trish Shermot, Director of Government Affairs/Urban Development for Visions Federal Credit Union, reinforcing the state’s continued leadership within the movement.

Since its launch in 1982, the DE program has developed more than 3,400 leaders across 33 countries, equipping participants with the tools to drive meaningful change in their communities. This new advisory group builds on that legacy, ensuring alumni voices help guide future programming and innovation.

By deepening connections and elevating shared expertise, the Foundation is unlocking new opportunities to advance the “people helping people” philosophy at scale.

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This week, our newsletter covers educational webinars for credit union professionals from the Association and CUSG. Then, we’re sharing recent fundraising efforts, grant dispersals, and more. Get the latest credit union industry news in the New York Minute!

Association Webinar: NYC Debt Collection Rules Are Changing — Is Your Credit Union Ready?

A major regulatory shift is on the horizon, and it could impact your credit union no matter where you’re located. The new NYC Final Debt Collection Rules, effective September 1, 2026, apply based on where your member lives, not where your credit union operates. That means institutions in Buffalo, Syracuse, or even outside New York must comply when collecting from members with New York City addresses.

Join the Association’s webinar on April 7 at 11 am to understand what’s changing and how to prepare. For the first time, credit unions acting as original creditors will be treated as debt collectors once certain activities begin, bringing new compliance responsibilities.

Key topics include:

• When your credit union qualifies as a “debt collector”
• Validation notice and verification requirements
• Communication limits and consumer protections
• Handling disputed or time-barred debt
• Record-keeping expectations

Don’t get caught off guard! Equip your team now for this critical compliance shift.

Christine Carpenter Named 2026 Young Professional of the Year by the Fulton Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce

A familiar face in the New York credit union community is earning well-deserved recognition. Christine Carpenter, Vice President of Marketing and Business at First Choice Financial FCU, has been named the 2026 Young Professional of the Year by the Fulton Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Christine’s journey reflects the very best of the credit union philosophy. A Johnstown native, she began her career in 2015 as a part-time teller and steadily advanced into a leadership role overseeing marketing, partnerships, and member engagement. She is also the current Secretary of the Association’s Young Professional Commission.

Her impact goes far beyond the credit union walls. Christine is deeply committed to strengthening regional connections and expanding opportunities, especially through scholarship programs that support students of all backgrounds.

Guided by the “people helping people” mission, she continues to make a meaningful difference in her community every day.

Join us in congratulating Christine on this incredible achievement!

UNFCU Foundation Announces 2026 Grant Partners

The UNFCU Foundation is continuing its global mission to create pathways out of poverty by awarding $795,000 in grants to 21 organizations across six countries in 2026. Now in its 11th year of philanthropy, the Foundation is focusing on programs that support migrants, refugees, and marginalized women and youth.

This year’s partnerships emphasize education, healthcare, and livelihood training, helping individuals build sustainable futures. From behavioral health services in New York City to digital skills training in Kenya’s Kakuma Refugee Camp, these initiatives are driving real, measurable impact.

Notable programs include:

• The Floating Hospital and Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center expanding healthcare access
• Emma’s Torch and Hot Bread Kitchen advancing workforce development
• International Rescue Committee and Konexio supporting refugee employment and digital literacy

Since its founding, the UNFCU Foundation has helped more than 140,000 women and youth unlock new opportunities, proving the power of collaboration in creating lasting change.

Heritage Family CU Celebrates Another Shiver Me Shamrocks 5K

Snow flurries and chilly temperatures didn’t stop the community spirit at Heritage Family Credit Union’s annual Shiver Me Shamrocks 5K. Held on March 14, the St. Patrick’s Day-themed event brought together hundreds of runners and walkers, all in support of local nonprofits.

The day featured a Leprechaun Leap Fun Run for kids, a lively street carnival atmosphere with a DJ and local vendors, and post-race treats and refreshments from local businesses.

Participants showed up in full green attire and costumes, embracing the fun while making a meaningful impact. The event, organized by the Heritage Family Cares 4 You Foundation, raised funds for several organizations.

This event showcases Heritage Family CU’s commitment to living the “people helping people” mission.

Filene Research Institute Announces New Center for Differentiation & Storytelling

In a bold move to help credit unions stand out in a crowded marketplace, the Filene Research Institute has announced a new Center for Differentiation & Storytelling, launching in July 2026.

This new research center will focus on a critical challenge: how credit unions can better communicate their value and build lasting connections with members. While credit unions excel in purpose, many struggle to “break through the noise” against fintechs and big banks.

The center will explore:

• How to define and communicate a distinct value proposition
• Strategies to increase awareness without over-explaining
• Ways to create memorable brand experiences that drive loyalty

With early support from organizations like orsa credit union and FourLeaf FCU, this initiative aims to equip credit unions with the tools to turn their stories into a true competitive advantage. We look forward to seeing how this research makes a positive impact on our industry!

Fuel the Future: Career Planning as a Competitive Advantage Webinar

Career development isn’t just an HR initiative. It’s a strategic advantage. That’s the focus of the upcoming CUSG webinar, Fuel the Future: Career Planning as a Competitive Advantage, taking place Tuesday, March 31 at 3:00 PM ET.

Led by Paul Marston, SHRM-CP, this session will provide a practical, structured approach to career planning that helps organizations retain top talent, strengthen leadership pipelines, and align employee growth with long-term goals.

This event is designed for HR and talent management leaders, learning and development professionals, and executives and people managers.

What you’ll learn:

• How career planning improves retention and engagement
• Building clear, trusted career pathways
• Developing succession pipelines that work
• Identifying and scaling top-performer behaviors

If your organization is looking to grow leaders faster and stay competitive, this session delivers actionable insights you can put to work immediately.

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In this week’s edition of the New York Minute, explore upcoming legislative and educational events from the Association! Then, see how credit unions across the state are supporting their communities. Read our weekly blog for the latest industry updates.

Register Today: State Governmental Affairs Conference

Advocacy takes center stage this spring at the 2026 State Governmental Affairs Conference, happening April 27–28 at the Renaissance Albany Hotel. This two-day event brings together credit union professionals from across New York to strengthen relationships with lawmakers, share insights, and champion the credit union mission.

Event Details:
Date: April 27-28, 2026
Location: Renaissance Albany Hotel
Registration deadline: April 22
Hotel deadline: April 2

State-level legislative decisions increasingly shape the operating environment for every credit union in New York—both state and federally chartered institutions. Already In 2026, we are seeing proposals that could further increase costs and complexity for credit unions—and ultimately affect the affordability of financial services for the members we serve. If credit unions are not fully engaged, we risk not having our voice heard during critical policy discussions that will impact our future.

Attendees will engage directly with policymakers and share the impact credit unions have in communities across New York. If advocacy is a priority for your credit union, this conference is an opportunity you won’t want to miss!

Compliance Quarterly: Can You Trust That Trust?

The next Compliance Quarterly webinar will help credit union staff navigate complex questions about trusts with confidence.

Join Mitchell Pollack, the Association’s General Counsel, on March 26 from 11:00 AM–12:00 PM for an informative session titled “Can You Trust That Trust?” In this webinar, Pollack will break down the essential steps credit unions should take when reviewing trust documents and determining whether a member can open a trust account.

Participants will explore key questions such as:

• What authority do trustees have over an account?
• Who is authorized to act on behalf of the trust?
• How should credit unions handle situations with multiple trustees?
• What does fiduciary duty mean for account management?

The Compliance Quarterly series is designed to tackle the most frequently asked compliance questions facing credit unions today while fostering discussion and knowledge-sharing among peers.

Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your understanding of trust accounts and compliance best practices.

From TruStage: Don’t Be Fooled. Imposter Scams on the Rise.

Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and imposter scams are one of the fastest-growing threats facing consumers today. In a recent article from TruStage, experts highlight how criminals are using email, phone calls, text messages, social media, and even in-person interactions to trick victims into sending money or revealing sensitive information.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, more than 2.6 million fraud reports were filed in 2024, with victims losing $12.8 billion. Many of these scams rely on impersonation tactics, where fraudsters pose as trusted figures such as family members, government agencies, financial institutions, tech support representatives, or investment professionals.

Common imposter scams include:

• Romance scams that build emotional trust before requesting money
• Government impersonation scams often claim unpaid tolls or legal threats
• Tech support scams that request remote access to computers
• Investment scams promising unrealistic cryptocurrency returns

TruStage also warns that scammers are increasingly using AI and deepfake technology to make these schemes appear more convincing. Credit unions play a critical role in helping members recognize warning signs and report suspicious activity quickly.

Additional resources from TruStage:

• Emerging Risk Spotlight – A 1:1 interview with TruStage risk consultant, Holly Spiczenski, on the latest fraud risks, trends, and threats impacting consumers within the credit union marketplace.
• Employee interactive training module: When Members Become Victims – this short interactive training provides employees with the knowledge and skills to enhance their ability to be the first line of risk management defense when it comes to consumer fraud and scams.
• Don’t Fall Victim risk overview – this resource helps credit union leaders stay ahead of the complex array of ever-changing consumer fraud and scams.

Member education resources: (only TruStage Bond policyholders will have access, login required)

• Fraud & scams consumer risk overview
• Protecting your identity & money

Read TruStage’s full article by clicking below.

Reliant Credit Union Donates to Lyons Community Center Playground Project

Community impact continues to be a priority for Reliant Credit Union, which recently donated $1,250 to support the Lyons Community Center Playground Project in Wayne County.

The contribution was made at the future playground site in Lyons, where Reliant staff joined community partners to celebrate the initiative. The project, led by Finger Lakes Community Action and the Lyons Main Street Program, aims to build a safe, inclusive playground for children of all abilities.

Reliant Credit Union’s community investments continue to reflect the credit union philosophy of people helping people.

The Summit FCU Contributes to Home Beneath Our Feet, Inc.

Thanks to their success at the Buffalo Wine & Chocolate Festival, The Summit Federal Credit Union presented a $3,000 donation to Home Beneath Our Feet, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth on Buffalo’s East Side.

Home Beneath Our Feet provides after-school and summer programs centered around gardening, holistic education, and life-skills development. Through hands-on agriculture and partnerships with local organizations, young participants learn valuable lessons about nutrition, environmental stewardship, and personal growth.

We celebrate The Summit FCU for its community participation, which directly fuels programs that help local youth build confidence, life skills, and stronger futures.

TCT FCU Donates to Randy’s Patient Assistance Fund

In a heartfelt gesture of community support, TCT Federal Credit Union recently donated $1,500 to Randy’s Patient Assistance Fund at the CR Wood Cancer Center at Glens Falls Hospital.

The donation was made in honor and memory of Earl Barber Jr., a well-admired former TCT employee, whose legacy continues to inspire acts of generosity within the credit union community.

Randy’s Patient Assistance Fund helps cancer patients and their families cover unexpected financial challenges associated with treatment, ensuring they can focus on healing rather than worrying about everyday expenses.

By supporting programs like Randy’s Patient Assistance Fund, TCT Federal Credit Union demonstrates its ongoing commitment to uplifting the communities it serves and honoring the individuals who helped shape its mission. Donations like this help ensure patients receive the care, compassion, and financial support they need during difficult times.

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All proceeds from the Silent Auction benefit the New York Credit Union Foundation, helping fund programs that strengthen financial well-being and support credit unions and their communities across the state.

Event Details
Friday, June 12
5:00 – 6:30 p.m.
The Saratoga Hilton Main Lobby/Gallery

Thanks to the generosity of credit unions, exhibitors, and attendees, auction tables are typically filled with exciting items such as:

• Vacation and travel packages
• Sporting event and theater tickets
• Electronics and home technology
• Gift baskets and jewelry
• Sporting equipment and more

To participate, donors can submit the Silent Auction Donor Form and either mail their item to the Association by May 29 or hand-deliver it at the EXCEL registration area by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 11. Cash donations are also welcome if you’d prefer the Association purchase an item on your behalf.

Your contribution helps make this fun, competitive, and charitable event a highlight of the Convention each year!

New York Credit Union Leaders Named to i3 Innovation Program

Among the 24 professionals selected nationwide, four leaders from New York earned a spot in the new cohort:

• Carlos Fonseca, USALLIANCE Financial
• Judd Meche, USALLIANCE Financial
• Seth Ross, Visions Federal Credit Union
• Thomas Was, Municipal Credit Union

Wave 22 will begin its innovation journey at EDGE 2026 in Dallas, TX (May 11-14) and will ultimately present its prototypes and solutions at Filene’s big.bright.minds. conference in December. Join us in congratulating the cohort for being included in this innovative program!

FourLeaf FCU Named One of America’s Greatest Midsize Workplaces by Newsweek

The ranking evaluated employers across 120 key performance indicators, including:

• Working environment
• Culture and belonging
• Compensation and benefits
• Work-life balance
• Career progression and training
• Overall company culture

FourLeaf has built a workplace designed to support its team members through initiatives such as remote work opportunities, employee resource groups, social clubs, and professional development programs.

This recognition highlights the credit union’s commitment to building a workplace where employees can collaborate, grow, and thrive while serving members and communities.

Nicole Tompkins of Mid-Hudson Valley FCU Named to Hudson Valley 40 Under 40

The program highlights emerging leaders who are helping shape the future of the region’s businesses, nonprofits, and communities. Tompkins’ recognition reflects the ongoing contributions of credit union professionals who embody the “people helping people” philosophy while strengthening the communities they serve.

Michael Savino of Municipal CU Named to City & State New York’s Who’s Who in Affordable Housing

• Expanding affordable mortgage and lending tools
• Promoting financial education on homeownership and credit recovery
• Connecting members with critical housing assistance programs

In 2025 alone, Savino’s team helped members secure more than $400,000 in housing grants, with over $650,000 already secured for 2026.

Savino also regularly speaks in the media about mortgage rates, credit rebuilding, and practical homebuying decisions, helping New Yorkers better understand the path to homeownership. As a board member of the MCU Foundation, he also supports grantmaking that strengthens housing stability and community development across New York City.

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This week in our blog, we’re sharing highlights from the 2026 America’s Credit Unions’ Government Affairs Conference. Plus, the Association President & CEO’s recent honor, registration deadlines for the Emerging Credit Union Leaders Conference Series, and more! Get this week’s credit union news in our New York Minute blog.

America’s Credit Unions’ GAC 2026 Events & Highlights

New York’s credit unions showed up in a big way at the 2026 Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in Washington, D.C., with a record 160+ attendees representing our state.

The following New York credit unions attended the conference and represented our state powerfully:

New York’s credit unions kicked off the conference on Sunday night with the “Let’s Connect New York” Reception, where credit union leaders and advocates gathered for cocktails, small bites, and meaningful conversation before heading to Capitol Hill. The energy set the tone for a strong week of advocacy.

Monday morning featured a New York CEO Breakfast fireside chat between Association Chief Advocacy Officer Amy Kramer and America’s Credit Unions Senior VP of Advocacy Greg Mesack. The Opening Flag Ceremony followed, with Association President & CEO William J. Mellin and Association Board Chair Eric Hepkins proudly representing New York.

During the Legislative Briefing Luncheon, opening remarks were delivered by Association Chief Operating Officer Chris Pajak, followed by a panel featuring Association Chief Advocacy Officer Amy Kramer, Association Vice President of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Jeremy Newman, and America’s Credit Unions Head of Legislative Advocacy Brad Thaler.

Tuesday and Wednesday were dedicated to Hill visits, as New York advocates met directly with lawmakers to promote the credit union mission and advocate for pro-credit union policy.

Thank you to the following lawmakers for meeting with our members:

Check out photos from the event:

Association President & CEO William J. Mellin Honored with Farley League Leadership Award

The American Association of Credit Union Leagues (AACUL) has recognized William J. Mellin, Association President & CEO, with the prestigious 2026 Eugene H. Farley League Leadership Award.

This national honor celebrates a league president who demonstrates visionary leadership at the state and national levels, strong organizational and financial performance, commitment to cooperation across the credit union system, and integrity, purpose-driven service.

Mellin, who began his tenure with the Association 32 years ago and has served as President & CEO since 2000, oversees the Association and its affiliated entities, including OwnersChoice Funding, UsNet Shared Branching, and the New York Credit Union Foundation.

Under his leadership, the Association has continued advancing the credit union mission statewide: advocating, educating, and uniting credit unions that collectively serve 7 million members and hold more than $130 billion in assets.

Congratulations to Bill on this well-deserved national recognition!

Act Now: Register for Elevating Credit Union Leaders Conference

Time is running out! The deadline to register for the Elevating Credit Union Leaders Conference Series is Wednesday, March 11.

Virtual sessions take place on March 18, July 14, and December 2, while an in-person session will be at the Crowne Plaza Albany – The Desmond Hotel on October 7.

Designed specifically for credit union professionals and ideal for managers, supervisors, young professionals, and emerging leaders, this series helps participants:

• Evolve from managers to mentors
• Overcome leadership challenges
• Strengthen strategic communication skills
• Develop the mindset of influential leaders

Featured speakers include Mark Arnold, Founder & CEO, and Shawn Temple, Chief Strategy Officer of On the Mark Strategies. This program is your opportunity to expand your impact within your credit union!

Don’t wait! Secure your spot before March 11.

TruStage^® to Issue Stablecoin for Credit Unions

TruStage has announced plans to launch TruStage Stablecoin (TSDA), a fully reserved U.S. dollar stablecoin designed specifically for credit unions. TSDA aims to modernize digital payment infrastructure for credit unions worldwide that work with TruStage.

Developed in collaboration with Block Time Financial, the initiative will:

• Maintain 1:1 cash backing for stability
• Support settlements and disbursements
• Enable faster loan funding
• Improve peer-to-peer and cross-border payments
• Reduce transaction friction and costs

With growing regulatory clarity around stablecoins, this pilot program is launching in the first half of 2026 and represents a significant development for community-based financial institutions.

NY Attorney General Issues Warning for ‘Pig Butchering’ Scams

The Office of the New York Attorney General has issued a consumer alert warning New Yorkers about increasingly sophisticated “pig butchering” scams.

These schemes typically begin on social media, dating apps, or unsolicited texts and move to encrypted platforms like WeChat or WhatsApp. The goal of these scammers is to build trust through fake personal or professional relationships and introduce fraudulent investment opportunities, often in cryptocurrency. Victims are shown fabricated account gains before being asked to deposit substantial sums. Eventually, withdrawals are blocked, and scammers disappear.

Red flags include:

• Requests for secrecy
• Pressure to invest quickly
• Demands to wire money or use Bitcoin ATMs
• Interference when banks question transactions

Attorney General James urges New Yorkers to research investment offers, avoid irreversible payment methods, consult trusted advisors, and report suspected scams. Victims can file a complaint online or call 1-800-771-7755.

Staying vigilant protects both individuals and the communities we serve.

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