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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From new developments shaping the industry to credit unions making a difference close to home, there’s plenty to catch up on in this week’s New York Minute.

FOCUS NY in Action

Association Chief Advocacy Officer Amy Kramer recently represented New York’s credit unions at an event hosted by the NYS Democratic Assembly Campaign Committee (DACC) in New York City. Her attendance was made possible through FOCUS New York, and she was joined by a strong group of local credit union leaders who came out to show their support and connect with candidates. Together, they shared how credit unions are strengthening their communities and highlighted the value of the cooperative model for New Yorkers across the state.

We are grateful to the candidates who took the time to meet with us and engage in meaningful conversation about the topics that matter most to credit unions and their members. We look forward to continuing these productive relationships into the future.

Opportunities like this are possible because of the credit union leaders, advocates, and supporters who invest in FOCUS New York. Their contributions ensure that credit unions have a seat at the table with the policymakers shaping New York’s financial future, and that the voices of more than 7 million credit union members are heard in Albany. Every contribution helps build lasting relationships with lawmakers who share our commitment to people helping people. To learn more about FOCUS New York and how you can get involved, visit https://focus-ny.org/

Legal Update: New York Employees Gain Access to Their Personnel Files

Effective November 8, 2026, new Section 210-b of the New York Labor Law will, for the first time, give current and former employees the right to obtain copies of their personnel records. This creates new recordkeeping and response obligations for credit unions statewide. Under the new law, employers must:

• Provide a copy of an employee’s personnel record, at no cost, within 5 business days of a written request. Employers may limit employees to 2 requests per calendar year, but a review triggered by negative information does not count toward that limit.
• Notify an employee within 10 days of placing negative information in their file. This means any information that is, has been, or may be used to adversely affect the employee’s qualifications for employment, promotion, transfer, additional compensation, or discipline.
• Allow employees to dispute information in their file. If the dispute isn’t resolved by agreement, the employee’s written statement must become part of the record and accompany the disputed information if it is shared with a third party.
• Retain complete personnel records from hire until three years after separation.
• Refrain from retaliating against employees who exercise their rights under the law.

“Personnel record” is defined broadly. It includes job applications, compensation, performance evaluations, written warnings, and disciplinary and termination documents. It also covers records held on the employer’s behalf by third parties, such as payroll or HR vendors. Disciplinary files at credit unions often reference member information. The law excludes information about other individuals where disclosure would be an unwarranted invasion of privacy, so files should be reviewed before they are produced. The Attorney General enforces the law, and violations carry penalties of $500 to $2,500. There is no private right of action.

When Governor Hochul signed the bill, she announced an agreement with the Legislature to pass chapter amendments in the 2027 session. These amendments would clarify that employers need not create files or produce records they don’t already maintain. They would also narrow covered records to those actually used in employment decisions and potentially lengthen the 5- and 10-day requirements. Because amendments are pending and only the Attorney General can enforce the law, enforcement before the amendments are enacted is unlikely. Even so, credit unions should plan to comply by November 8. That means identifying where personnel records are kept, setting up a process to track and respond to requests within five business days, building the 10-day notice into performance management and disciplinary workflows, and training managers and HR staff.

Jovia Financial Recognized by Long Island Elite as 2026 Community Impact Organization of the Year

Jovia Financial Credit Union has been recognized by Long Island Elite as its 2026 Community Impact Organization of the Year, celebrating the credit union’s commitment to supporting and strengthening the communities it serves.

The recognition was highlighted as part of Long Island Elite’s annual gala, which brings together business and community leaders while recognizing individuals and organizations making an impact across the region.

Jovia’s recognition reflects the credit union movement’s broader commitment to investing in local communities and supporting the people and organizations working to make a difference.

Highlighting Oswego County FCU’s CU Cares Initiative

Oswego County Federal Credit Union is putting community giving directly into the hands of its employees through its CU Cares initiative.

Instead of selecting recipients from the top down, employees at each branch nominate local nonprofits and charities they know and believe in and then vote together to choose the organizations their branch will support. Team members personally deliver the contributions, giving each donation an opportunity to build stronger relationships between the credit union and organizations doing important work in its communities.

The result is a program rooted in local knowledge and shared ownership. Recent recipients have included The Desens House, Oswego Public Library, Donald McFee Memorial Ambulance Service, Oswego Bookmobile, Central New York Community Foundation, Greater Pulaski Community Endowment Fund, John Ben Snow Foundation & Memorial Trust, CNY Arts Center, Fulton Youth Basketball, Family Resource Center of Oswego County and Friends Forever Animal Rescue.

Through CU Cares, Oswego County FCU is supporting causes ranging from food security and animal welfare to youth programs, libraries and local history while giving each branch community a voice in where that support goes.

Hudson Valley Credit Union Gives Back(packs), Donates to United Way of Dutchess-Orange Region’s Drive

Hudson Valley Credit Union recently donated 200 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region for the nonprofit’s annual back-to-school drive.

The effort received some extra help from HVCU’s 2026 high school internship program participants, who packed the backpacks with supplies before the donation. Approximately 20 nonprofits partnering with United Way this school season will distribute the supplies to students and families across Dutchess and Orange counties.

The initiative combined HVCU’s commitment to supporting its communities with an opportunity to show the next generation the importance of giving back. The credit union regularly supports the Hudson Valley through hands-on community initiatives and the HVCU Charitable Foundation, which has distributed $1.1 million across New York since its inception in 2025.

Alloya Corporate FCU Announces Launch of CUUSD Institutional Payment Stablecoin

Alloya Corporate Federal Credit Union has launched CUUSD, a U.S. dollar-denominated institutional payment stablecoin issued by its wholly owned credit union service organization, Appex CUSO, LLC.

Designed for approved credit unions and other institutional participants, CUUSD is intended to support the transfer and holding of digital value across modern payment networks. The stablecoin is initially operating on the Ethereum blockchain through a controlled institutional pilot.

At launch, Appex CUSO minted 1 million CUUSD tokens representing $1 million in digital value for pilot and testing activities. The pilot will focus on operational testing, technology validation and evaluating potential use cases with a limited number of approved institutional participants.

CUUSD builds on Alloya’s history of helping credit unions access payment systems while exploring how cooperatively owned infrastructure can support the industry as financial activity increasingly moves to digital networks. The stablecoin is not available for purchase by consumers or the general public.

From Origence: How Straight-Through Processing Helps Credit Unions Close More Deals

For credit unions competing for auto loans at the point of sale, speed can make the difference between winning and losing a deal. Origence examines how straight-through processing can help credit unions automate more of the lending process, allowing straightforward applications to move from entry to funding with little or no manual intervention.

By integrating processes such as credit pulls, fraud checks, income verification and decisioning, credit unions can reduce delays while giving dealers and members a faster, more consistent experience. Origence also highlights how automated decisioning can free staff to focus their attention on applications that require more complex underwriting and human review.

As expectations for faster lending experiences continue to grow, straight-through processing offers credit unions another way to strengthen dealer relationships, improve efficiency and compete for more auto lending opportunities.

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