In our latest New York Minute, we’re reminding you to save your spot for EXCEL 26! Plus, check out how credit unions are supporting their community, as well as recent leader recognitions. Get this week’s industry news in our blog!

Don’t Miss Out: Registration for EXCEL 26 Closes May 28!

There’s just one week left to register for EXCEL 26, the New York credit union movement’s premier annual event. From June 11-14, credit union professionals and volunteers from across the state will gather for four days packed with learning, networking, inspiration, and celebration.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your leadership skills, connect with peers, discover industry trends, or recharge alongside colleagues from across New York, EXCEL26 offers something for everyone.

Attendees can expect:

• Dynamic educational sessions
• Engaging keynote speakers
• Networking opportunities
• Memorable events

With the May 28 registration deadline quickly approaching, now is the time to secure your spot and be part of one of the most anticipated credit union events of the year. Don’t wait until the last minute, register today and join your fellow credit union leaders for an unforgettable experience.

Sidney Federal Credit Union Employees Volunteer with Syracuse Rescue Mission After $75,000 Donation

Sidney Federal Credit Union has demonstrated a continued commitment to community impact through both financial support and employee volunteerism. The credit union recently donated $75,000 to the Syracuse Rescue Mission to help advance programs focused on homelessness prevention, shelter services, and long-term recovery support throughout Central New York.

In addition to the donation, SFCU employees volunteered with the Rescue Mission on April 23, helping sort and organize donations collected through the Polka Tot consignment sale. Those items play an important role in supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness and ensuring critical resources reach the community efficiently.

Through initiatives like these, SFCU continues demonstrating the credit union philosophy of people helping people in action.

The Summit FCU Participates in Bed Build Event for Sleep in Heavenly Peace

Employees and family members from The Summit Federal Credit Union recently volunteered with the Syracuse chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace to help ensure local children have a safe and comfortable place to sleep. During the bed build event, volunteers helped build beds for 61 children in Central New York who previously did not have beds of their own.

The event also highlighted a significant need facing families across the region. According to Sleep in Heavenly Peace, volunteers in Central New York deliver between 35 and 40 beds each week, yet more than 400 children remain on a three-month waiting list locally. Nationally, the organization now includes 380 chapters, with approximately 120,000 children still waiting for beds.

The Summit’s participation reflects the credit union industry’s ongoing commitment to supporting local families and strengthening communities through hands-on volunteerism. By partnering with organizations like Sleep in Heavenly Peace, credit unions continue making a meaningful difference far beyond financial services.

Carol Allen of People’s Alliance FCU Received Corporate Leadership Award from SCO Family of Services

The Association congratulates Carol Allen, President and CEO of People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union, on receiving the Corporate Leadership Award at the SCO Family of Services Inspiration Ball.

The recognition celebrates Allen’s leadership and her continued support of organizations dedicated to helping children, families, and individuals thrive. People’s Alliance FCU shared its appreciation for SCO Family of Services and its unwavering commitment to strengthening communities throughout New York. The organization’s work continues to make a meaningful impact in communities across the region.

Allen’s recognition highlights the important role credit union leaders play in supporting nonprofit organizations and creating positive change beyond the financial sector. Congratulations again to Carol on this well-deserved honor.

Jerilee Beaudoin of Sunmark Credit Union Honored by Capital Region Chamber

The Association congratulates Jerilee Beaudoin of Sunmark Credit Union on being recognized as a Women of Excellence honoree by the Capital Region Chamber Women’s Business Council.

The Women of Excellence Awards recognize outstanding leaders from throughout the Capital Region who demonstrate exceptional professional achievement, leadership, and community impact. Recipients are selected by a committee comprised of previous Women of Excellence honorees and represent some of the region’s most influential and accomplished professionals.

Beaudoin was recognized in the Excellence in Management category, which honors leaders who demonstrate strong organizational leadership, empower their teams, and implement innovative solutions to drive long-term success. The award also recognizes individuals who foster workplace growth, support employee development, and position their organizations to meet future challenges and opportunities.

This honor reflects Jerilee’s dedication to leadership excellence and the positive impact she continues to make within the credit union movement and the broader community.

From InfoSight360: CFPB Finalizes Revisions to Small Business Lending Rule

By Michael Christians

On May 1st, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued a final rule which makes significant changes to the small business lending data collection requirements found in Subpart B to Regulation B.

First, let’s look at what is changing:

Mandatory Compliance Date


Previously, there were 3 different mandatory compliance dates based on the number of covered transactions originated by the covered financial institution. Now, all covered financial institutions will begin collecting data on January 1, 2028.

Covered Financial Institution


Under the original rule, a financial institution that originated at least 100 covered credit transactions in each of the two preceding calendar years was required to collect and report data. Under the revised rule, that threshold has been raised to 1,000 covered credit transactions in each of the two preceding calendar years.

Covered Credit Transaction


Previously, any extension of business credit was considered a covered credit transaction unless specifically exempted. The revised rule adds three new types of exempt transactions:

• Merchant cash advances,
• Agricultural loans, and
• Business loans for under $1,000.

Small Business

Under the original rule, a small business was one with gross annual revenue of $5 million or less during its preceding fiscal year. Now, a small business is one with gross annual revenue of $1 million or less during its preceding fiscal year.

Data Collection


The revised rule removes the following data points from the list of those required to be collected in connection with each covered credit transaction:

• Application method,
• Application recipient,
• Denial reasons,
• Pricing information,
• Number of workers, and
• Whether the small business is LGBTQ+-owned

Furthermore, under the revised rule, when collecting ethnicity, race, and sex of the principal owners of the small business, credit unions need now only use the aggregated categories for ethnicity and race and either male or female for sex.

There are several items from the original rulemaking that were not changed by the CFPB. Let’s look at those next:

Covered Application


An oral or written request for a covered credit transaction, except for reevaluation, extension, or renewal requests that do not see new money. In addition, inquiries and prequalification requests are excluded from the definition of covered application.

Firewall


No person involved in making any determination concerning the application may have access to business ownership status and/or principal owner demographic information. In addition, this information must be kept separate from the remainder of the application or loan file.

Data Submission


A covered financial institution’s small business loan application register must be submitted not later than June 1st of the year following data collection.

Public Disclosure


A covered financial institution must post a notice of availability on its website.

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This week in the New York Minute, learn more about Fintech Connect 2026, Association Board of Directors elections, a new credit union affordability communications toolkit from AACUL, workplace and community recognition awards, plus more!

Register to Attend Fintech Connect 2026!

Innovation is moving fast in the credit union space, and Fintech Connect 2026 is designed to help credit union professionals stay ahead of the curve. That’s why the Association is partnering with the Cooperative Credit Union Association (CCUA) and the Association of Vermont Credit Unions to give New York credit unions access to this premier fintech conference on Wednesday, June 17, in Nashua, New Hampshire.

Now in its third year, Fintech Connect has built a reputation for delivering a highly interactive experience focused on real-world technology solutions for credit unions.

Attendees can expect

• “Quick connect” networking sessions
• Live product demonstrations
• The highly anticipated Cyber Showcase, where fintech companies compete to present innovative credit union solutions

The event also offers a unique opportunity to connect directly with fintech CEOs, founders, and peers from across the region while discovering tools that can strengthen operations and enhance member experiences. This is a can’t miss event, click below to register!

Reminder: Association Board of Directors Elections Are Open!

Association member credit unions: Now’s your chance to participate in the 2026 Board of Directors election process. This year’s election includes three expiring director seats and one open seat: two (2) in Asset Tier 1 (up to $250 million) and two (2) in Asset Tier 2 ($250 million and over).

Credit union CEOs should have received voting instructions through eBallot VoteNet via an email sent from an eballot.com domain. In accordance with the Association Board Governance Policy, all ballots must be submitted electronically by June 4, 2026. Election results will be announced at the Association’s annual meeting on June 14, 2026.

Participation in the election process plays an important role in shaping the future leadership and strategic direction of the Association. Review candidate information and ensure your organization’s vote is submitted before the deadline! Learn more on the Board Election Page.

Communications Toolkit Highlighting Credit Union Affordability Now Available

The League System has released a new Credit Union Affordability Toolkit designed to help credit unions clearly communicate the real financial value they provide members every day.

The complimentary toolkit, developed through collaboration across the League System and the American Association of Credit Union Leagues (AACUL), includes fully customizable resources that credit unions can quickly integrate into existing outreach efforts.

Materials include

• Newsletter and blog copy
• Social media graphics and captions
• Email content
• Website graphics
• Customizable press release template
• Budgeting worksheet to support financial wellness conversations

The toolkit highlights how credit unions help members save through lower loan rates, reduced fees, and member-first service, which can add up to hundreds of dollars in annual savings for households.

Explore the toolkit and utilize the resources to reflect your local branding, messaging, and community impact. The Association also recognizes the League System and AACUL for continuing to invest in practical, collaborative resources that support credit unions of all sizes.

Reliant Credit Union Named One of Rochester’s Top Workplaces for Ninth Year in a Row

Congratulations to Reliant Credit Union on being named one of Rochester’s Top Workplaces by the Democrat and Chronicle for the ninth consecutive year.

The recognition is based entirely on employee feedback collected through a confidential third-party survey administered by Energage LLC. The survey measures several aspects of workplace culture, including whether employees feel respected, supported, empowered, and encouraged to grow professionally.

Reliant continues to make a meaningful impact throughout its community while maintaining a strong commitment to employee engagement and member service. This latest recognition reflects the credit union philosophy in action and highlights the positive workplace cultures being cultivated across New York’s credit union community.

Credit Unions Recognized as Best of the Capital Region

Several New York credit unions were recently recognized in the “Best Credit Union” category of the Best of the Capital Region awards, an annual reader-driven program celebrating standout businesses, organizations, and institutions throughout the region.

Congratulations to the following recognized credit unions:

• Broadview Federal Credit Union
• Sunmark Credit Union
• First New York Federal Credit Union
• Community Resource FCU
• Hudson Valley Credit Union

The annual awards are determined through community voting, with more than a quarter-million votes cast across categories celebrating the people and organizations that make the Capital Region unique.

The recognition reflects the strong relationships these institutions continue to build within their communities through member-focused service, financial support, and local engagement. Congratulations to all of the credit unions recognized for this achievement and for continuing to demonstrate the value of the credit union difference across New York State.

From TruStage: Portfolio Resilience Starts By Fixing the Recall Gap

By Corrin Maier, Vice President, Lending Business, TruStage

The financial fragility of the modern borrower

The 2026 lending environment is not defined by a single shock. It’s defined by compounding pressure.

Auto loan defaults have nearly doubled since 2020, and credit unions are seeing something that would have been unthinkable a few years ago: members walking into branches to voluntarily turn over their keys because they can no longer carry the payment burden. Peak vehicle pricing, elevated interest rates and tighter household cash flow have combined into a perfect stress test for loan portfolios.¹

This isn’t limited to auto lending. Across consumer credit, financial fragility has become the norm rather than the exception. Nearly three-quarters of consumers report experiencing at least one financial hardship, and more than 90% worry that a single life event such as job loss, illness or disability could derail their ability to repay a loan.²

For credit union executives, this creates a clear mandate: Preventing default is no longer just about underwriting discipline.

The institutions that will outperform in the next economic cycle are shifting their posture: From lender of record to financial safe harbor.

The recall gap: A silent delivery failure

Most credit union leaders assume the risk conversation is covered when protection is “offered.” The data says otherwise. More than 80% of consumers say they are interested in payment protection products, yet more than half of borrowers do not recall being offered coverage at all.² This is the recall gap, and it is not a conversation problem. It is a delivery problem.

Face-to-face interactions remain a critical foundation of the member relationship. But the loan closing process is overwhelming. When members are focused on rate, approval, and speed, even a well-intentioned branch conversation can become background noise. A single touchpoint, however genuine, is rarely enough.

Closing the recall gap means expanding where and how the offer is made. Consumers prefer multiple exposures to complex financial information. In fact, 74% say multiple touchpoints help them make more confident decisions. Ninety-six percent of borrowers say they want to review protection options online, on their own time, before loan documents are finalized.² When that option isn’t available, the decision doesn’t get deferred. It often disappears.

The result is predictable. Members leave unprotected, not because they declined coverage, but because the experience never allowed the value to register.

Why digitally embedded protection changes the equation

Digital embedded protection closes the recall gap by meeting members where decisions actually happen.

Instead of relying on memory after the fact, protection is introduced directly within the digital lending flow when relevance is highest and attention is focused. This mirrors how consumers evaluate other complex protections today. Buying travel insurance for a $400 plane ticket is intuitive because it appears at the exact moment risk becomes real.³

When protection is embedded, three things happen immediately:

1. Awareness increases: Members see personalized options clearly and can evaluate individual coverage in context.
2. Understanding improves: Digital experiences allow education to happen without time constraints.
3. Outcomes improve: More members make informed choices, and more loans are protected before hardship strikes.

This is not theoretical. Credit unions implementing embedded protection report seamless integration rates above 95%, eliminating manual rekeying and reducing staff burden.² The operational lift is minimal, while the portfolio impact is material.

The win-win: Member security and portfolio performance

Embedded protection is often framed as a member benefit. That’s true, but it’s only half the story.

When members are protected, loan performance improves. Delinquencies are mitigated earlier. Charge-offs are reduced, and servicing teams spend less time reacting to financial crises that could have been absorbed.

From a financial perspective, the upside is clear. Credit unions offering embedded protection see a 26% increase in net income per member, driven by higher attachment rates, improved loan performance and reduced operational friction.3

This is the definition of a win-win model. Members gain a financial backstop during life’s most disruptive moments. Credit unions strengthen portfolios without sacrificing trust or speed.

In an environment where margins are under pressure and risk tolerance is tightening, few strategies deliver this level of aligned value.

Making speed the standard—without losing the brakes

One of the most common concerns executives raise is speed. Digital lending has trained members to expect decisions in minutes, not days. Any added friction risks abandonment.

The answer is to design integration correctly, not remove the protection from the experience.

Think about the transparency consumers expect elsewhere. Booking a $30,000 loan should feel as clear as purchasing a $400 plane ticket. Embedded protection applies the brakes just long enough to establish value, without adding friction to the digital application.

This balance is critical. When protection is thoughtfully integrated—not bolted on—it enhances trust rather than slowing momentum. Members feel informed, not sold. Staff stay focused on exceptions, not explanations. And the lending experience remains competitive in a crowded digital marketplace.

The real risk heading into 2026

The greatest risk facing credit union loan portfolios today is not interest rates or asset prices alone. It is exposure created by missed moments.

If half of your members are “forgetting” protection options, then half of your portfolio is unnecessarily vulnerable to the next job loss, illness, or life disruption. In the economic environment ahead, that is not a small gap.

Embedded protection is not another trend in the industry. It’s become a vital integration for organizations to find a scalable way to close the “recall gap” while preserving speed, trust, and member choice.

For credit unions committed to long-term portfolio resilience, the path forward is clear: Meet members digitally, protect them proactively, and design lending experiences that absorb risk before it becomes default.

That is how institutions move from simply lending money to truly safeguarding financial futures.

Learn more about embedding payment protection insurance into your digital loan application. Visit our Integrated Payment Protection page.

¹GOBankingRates. Auto Loan Defaults Are Rising: How To Protect Your Car and Credit. 2025, Oct. 14
²TruStage. 2025 Consumer Lending Preferences Report. March, 2025
³CUbroadcast. GAC25: TruStage’s Corrin Maier Talks the Benefit of Loan Insurance Products for Credit Unions. 2025, March 8.

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

TruStage® is the marketing name for TruStage Financial Group, Inc. its subsidiaries and affiliates. Corporate headquarters are located in Madison, Wis.
© TruStage. All Rights Reserved. LPS-8753048.1-0226-0328.

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This week in the New York Minute, check out the winners of this year’s NYCUA Scholarship Program and sponsorship opportunities at EXCEL! Plus, see organization and individual recognitions, and ways that credit unions are supporting their communities. Get the latest credit union updates in our weekly blog!

Announcing 2026 Association Scholarship Winners!

The Association is proud to celebrate the recipients of its 2026 Scholarship Program, which recognizes outstanding student members from across New York State who exemplify academic excellence as well as the credit union mission of “People Helping People.” This year’s winners were selected from a highly competitive pool of over 1,400 applicants and evaluated on key criteria including academic performance, extracurricular involvement, honors, community service, leadership, and writing ability.

$39,500 in scholarships are being awarded to 61 students to help pursue higher education at accredited colleges, universities, and trade programs. Individual awards range from $250 to $1,500, offering meaningful financial support as recipients take the next step in their academic journeys.

This program continues to reflect the credit union movement’s deep commitment to education and empowering the next generation of leaders.

National Credit Union Foundation Opens Grant Opportunity for At-Risk Youth

The National Credit Union Foundation is now offering a major opportunity for credit unions looking to expand their community impact with a $500,000 funding initiative through its At-Risk Youth Financial Well-Being Grant. The program is aimed at supporting programs that serve young people facing systemic barriers.

Grants of up to $25,000 will be awarded to approximately 20 credit unions that demonstrate readiness to deliver tailored financial education, expand access to safe financial products, and build partnerships with schools and community organizations. Applications are open through June 26, 2026.

This year’s program builds on prior efforts focused on fostering youth and expands eligibility to reach a broader population. Past grant cycles have already supported more than 2,200 youth and helped establish hundreds of new savings accounts.

An informational webinar will be held on May 27 to guide applicants through the process.

Secure Your Spot: Explore EXCEL 26 Sponsorship Opportunities

Our annual EXCEL conference is one of the most anticipated events of the year, and now is the time for your organization to get involved! Sponsorship opportunities are open, offering credit unions and industry partners the chance to elevate their brand while supporting key initiatives across the industry.

Options are available across multiple touchpoints, including:

• General event sponsorships
• Various levels of Golf Tournament packages
• Silent Auction sponsorships

Each opportunity provides meaningful visibility, networking access, and alignment with the credit union movement’s mission.

Whether you’re looking to connect with decision-makers, showcase your organization, or support a great cause, EXCEL 26 sponsorships deliver value at every level. Strong attendance is expected, and sponsorship opportunities are being scooped up! Don’t miss your opportunity, explore available sponsor packages.

Andrew Weltman of Municipal Credit Union Named to 2026 Manhattan Power List

Please join us in congratulating Andrew Weltman, General Counsel at Municipal Credit Union, for his inclusion on the 2026 Manhattan Power List by Schneps Media. This list highlights influential leaders shaping the borough.

Andrew has brought nearly two decades of legal and compliance expertise to MCU, transforming the organization’s legal and risk management functions. His leadership has resulted in modernized governance structures, stronger collaboration across departments, and enhanced strategic decision-making. Weltman also played a key role in MCU’s charter expansion, broadening membership eligibility across New York City.

Beyond his work at MCU, he contributes to the industry through his role on the Association’s Government Affairs Committee and serves as Secretary of the MCU Foundation Board. Congratulations to Andrew on this honor!

AmeriCU Credit Union Named Among Best Companies to Work For in New York

For the tenth consecutive year, AmeriCU Credit Union has been recognized as one of the Best Companies to Work for in New York. The award, presented by the Best Companies Group, is based on a comprehensive evaluation of workplace policies and an employee survey that accounts for 75% of the overall score.

AmeriCU ranked eighth among the top 20 in the large employer category among organizations with 250+ employees. The survey measures key areas such as leadership, culture, training, compensation, and overall engagement, and the recognition highlights AmeriCU’s strong internal environment.

Please join us in congratulating AmeriCU for this award!

Hudson River Community Credit Union Supports Families with $20,000 Donation

Hudson River Community Credit Union is making a meaningful impact in its community with a $20,000 donation to the Saratoga Regional YMCA Corinth Branch’s Annual Campaign.

This contribution helps fund essential programs that ensure individuals and families have access to critical services, regardless of financial circumstances. The campaign plays a vital role in strengthening the local community through youth development initiatives, wellness programs, and family support services.

By supporting the YMCA’s mission, HRCCU is helping create opportunities for youth to grow, learn, and thrive while also promoting healthier lifestyles for families across the region.

This donation demonstrates how financial institutions can serve as powerful community partners beyond traditional banking services.

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In our latest blog, we’re bringing you the highlights from the Association’s State Governmental Affairs Conference, FOCUS New York’s Day of Giving, and more. Don’t miss out on this week’s credit union news in the New York Minute.

Highlights from State GAC 2026!

Energy, advocacy, and momentum were on full display in Albany as credit union leaders from across the state came together for the 2026 State Governmental Affairs Conference. From high-impact sessions to direct engagement with lawmakers, this year’s event reinforced the power of the credit union movement in action.

Monday

General Session
The conference kicked off with a high-energy General Session featuring influential voices from across New York State Government. Attendees engaged in forward-looking conversations, gaining fresh perspectives on advocacy and the future of the industry.

Amy Kramer and Jeremy Newman delivered an insight-packed legislative update to equip attendees with the knowledge they need to navigate an evolving policy environment and advocate effectively.

Ryan Roberts, CEO of Great Meadow FCU, Association Board of Directors’ Vice Chair, and Chair of FOCUS Board of Trustees, brought the importance of advocacy front and center in a presentation about FOCUS New York. His message was clear: engagement isn’t optional. It’s essential to ensure credit unions have a seat at the table for their collective voice to be heard.

Keynote speakers & lawmakers who presented include:

• New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli
• New York Secretary of State Walter Mosley
• Katie Sherwin, Director of the Division of Consumer Protection of the Department of State
• Assemblyman Paul Bologna
• Tanuja Mohapatra, Senior Advisor to the Superintendent of the NYS Department of Financial Services (DFS)

Legislative Reception
On Monday night, connections took center stage in the DeWitt Ballroom, where attendees networked with peers and policymakers in a lively, collaborative atmosphere.

Tuesday

The excitement carried into Tuesday as attendees hit the Capitol for the ‘Hike the Hill’ event to meet directly with lawmakers and advocate for the credit union movement. Throughout the day, advocates were able to have meaningful conversations about the legislative priorities that matter most for credit unions and the members they serve.

We’d like to thank the following lawmakers who met with New York’s credit unions:

We’d also like to thank the many credit union advocates who brought passion and purpose to Albany!

FOCUS New York Celebrates Third Annual Day of Giving

This week, FOCUS New York celebrated the third annual Day of Giving! Taking place on the first day of State GAC, this was a day of fundraising to support the mission of FOCUS New York, the state’s credit union Political Action Committee. With every contribution, FOCUS New York is better able to support candidates and lawmakers who advocate for credit unions.

“Every dollar contributed to FOCUS New York is an investment in the future of credit unions across the state,” said Association President & CEO William J. Mellin. “I’d like to thank the FOCUS New York Board of Trustees for their dedication and leadership. Specifically, thank you to Ryan Roberts of Great Meadow FCU, Ron Belle of AmeriCU Credit Union, Inna Sprague of Teachers FCU, Chris Hay of Dannemora FCU, Andrew Smith of Sidney FCU, Scott VanZandt of Hudson Valley CU, and Leah Dubrey of UFirst FCU.”

On behalf of FOCUS New York, we’d like to extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed. When you give, no matter the amount, you put real power behind the credit union mission.

Learn more about FOCUS New York!

Act Now: Sponsor the TruStage Golf Tournament to Benefit the NYCUF at EXCEL 26

Support a great cause while gaining valuable visibility for your organization by sponsoring the TruStage Golf Tournament to benefit the New York Credit Union Foundation at EXCEL 26. Set for Thursday, June 11 at the McGregor Links Country Club, this event brings together credit union professionals for a day of networking, friendly competition, and philanthropy.

A variety of sponsorship levels are available, offering opportunities for organizations of all sizes to get involved. From the Professional level, which includes a foursome, premium signage, and e-newsletter recognition, to targeted options like Lunch Sponsor, Putting Contest, and Tee Signs, each package delivers meaningful exposure. All sponsors receive recognition at registration, on signage, across communications, and beyond.

This is more than a round of golf. It’s a chance to align your brand with a mission that strengthens communities across New York. Don’t miss the opportunity to support the Foundation and hit the greens while connecting with industry peers.

Credit Union Leaders Recognized by Long Island Business News

Credit union leaders on Long Island are making an impact, with several industry executives recognized as 2026 Influencers in Banking & Finance by Long Island Business News. The list highlights professionals who are shaping the future of financial services through innovation, community commitment, and a strong focus on member relationships.

This year’s honorees include:

• Carol Allen, People’s Alliance FCU
• Michelle Dean, Suffolk Credit Union
• John Deieso, Jovia Financial Credit Union
• Joseph Tedesco, Ocean Financial FCU
• Brad Calhoun, Teachers FCU
• Linda Armyn, FourLeaf FCU
• Craig Booth, Island Federal Credit Union

These leaders are great examples of what sets credit unions apart; prioritizing people over profits while expanding services, investing in digital transformation, and strengthening financial literacy initiatives. Their recognition underscores the powerful influence of credit unions.

Congratulations to all honorees for their continued leadership and dedication to the communities they serve.

Municipal Credit Union Employees Volunteer With City Harvest

Municipal Credit Union and the MCU Foundation recently partnered with City Harvest for a “Repack” event in Brooklyn. Volunteers gathered at the Cohen Community Food Rescue Center to help address food insecurity across New York City, an effort that delivered immediate and meaningful results.

In a single event, volunteers repackaged 3,310 bags of food, supporting community programs that distribute healthy meals to neighbors in need. This hands-on effort helps ensure that families across the city have access to nutritious food, while also easing the burden many continue to face.

By supporting community organizations like City Harvest, The MCU Foundation demonstrates the powerful role credit unions play beyond financial services.

Empower FCU Volunteers at Food Bank of Central New York

Empower Federal Credit Union recently served its community through a volunteer effort at the Food Bank of Central New York. Members of the senior leadership team spent the morning packing boxes filled with nutritious food, helping support individuals and families facing food insecurity across the region.

Founded in 1985, the Food Bank of Central New York serves as a vital distribution hub for hundreds of local organizations, including food pantries, shelters, and soup kitchens across an 11-county area. Beyond food distribution, the organization tackles the root causes of hunger through education, outreach, and advocacy efforts.

Empower FCU’s continued partnership with the Food Bank highlights the credit union philosophy of people helping people. By giving back in tangible ways, Empower FCU supports initiatives that create lasting, positive change for neighbors throughout Central and Northern New York.

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This week, we’re reminding you of the upcoming FOCUS New York Day of Giving! Help reach the single-day fundraising goal and support credit union voices in legislation. Plus, see credit unions’ community support, leader recognitions, and insights from TruStage.

Reminder: Monday, April 27 is FOCUS New York’s Day of Giving!

The countdown is on—FOCUS New York’s Day of Giving is just days away. Held in conjunction with the State Governmental Affairs Conference, this annual event is a critical opportunity for credit union professionals across New York to unite behind a shared mission: strengthening advocacy efforts at the state level.

As legislative decisions continue to shape how credit unions operate and serve their members, participation in the Day of Giving sends a powerful message. Contributions, no matter the size, help ensure credit unions maintain a strong, unified voice in Albany.

Now is the time to plan, engage your team, and take action. Help FOCUS New York reach its $30,000 one-day goal and support the future of credit union success across the state.

Three Credit Union Leaders Featured in Syracuse Woman Magazine

A recent feature in Syracuse Woman Magazine highlights the powerful contributions of women leaders in the credit union movement, showcasing their influence on culture, community, and innovation.

Lisa Whitaker, President & CEO of Beginnings Credit Union, emphasizes the importance of cultivating internal talent pipelines and fostering a supportive workplace culture. With women now holding 51% of CEO roles in U.S. credit unions, she credits mentorship and community-focused banking as key drivers of progress.

Christina Sauve, CEO of Cooperative Federal Credit Union, brings a mission-driven approach to leadership, focusing on expanding access to financial services for underserved communities while promoting work-life balance within her team.

Sandy McKennan, Regional Branch VP at Sidney Federal Credit Union, highlights the role of mentorship and collaboration in shaping strong, unified teams.

Together, these leaders underscore the importance of empowerment, purpose, and opportunity in building the next generation of credit union leadership. We’re proud that the work these women are doing is making an impact!

Join us in celebrating this accomplishment, and read the full feature in Syracuse Woman Magazine below.

Teachers FCU Donates to Island Harvest’s Weekend Backpack Feeding Program

Teachers Federal Credit Union continues to demonstrate its commitment to community impact through a recent $25,000 donation to Island Harvest Food Bank’s Weekend Backpack Feeding Program. This initiative provides essential weekend meals to more than 3,100 children across 40 school districts in Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

In addition to the financial contribution, Teachers FCU team members rolled up their sleeves to volunteer, packing an impressive 27 pallets of food, each box weighing 31 pounds. The day highlighted the credit union’s dedication not only to giving but to active community engagement.

These efforts reinforce the organization’s mission to support programs that strengthen local communities. At a time when food insecurity remains a pressing issue, this initiative ensures children have access to reliable nutrition beyond the school week, making a meaningful difference where it matters most.

AmeriCU Charitable Foundation Celebrates $88,000 Donated in 2026 So Far

The AmeriCU Charitable Foundation is off to a strong start in 2026, contributing $88,753 to more than 70 nonprofit organizations while logging 312 volunteer hours in communities across its footprint.

From supporting initiatives like the Keeseville Recess Reboot to partnering with organizations such as the Victims Assistance Center of Jefferson County, the Foundation’s efforts span a wide range of causes. These include healthcare, education, veterans services, and animal welfare, with beneficiaries like Samaritan Medical Center, United Way of Northern New York, and Zoo New York.

This early momentum reflects AmeriCU’s ongoing commitment to making a lasting impact where its members live and work. With plans to continue community partnerships throughout the year, the Foundation is poised to build on this success, demonstrating how credit unions play a vital role in strengthening local communities.

Leatherstocking Credit Union Financially Backs New Bassett Healthcare Network Employee Assistance Fund

Leatherstocking Credit Union has donated $10,000 to launch the Bassett Healthcare Network Employee Assistance Fund, part of the “In It Together” campaign led by the Friends of Bassett. This fund is designed to support healthcare employees facing financial hardship, helping them maintain stability while continuing their essential work.

This contribution is especially meaningful given the credit union’s origins as Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital FCU, founded to serve hospital employees. The donation reflects a full-circle moment, honoring its history while continuing to invest in the shared community it serves today.

By supporting those on the front lines of healthcare, Leatherstocking Credit Union reinforces the credit union philosophy of people helping people. The initiative ensures that those who care for others receive the support they need during difficult times, strengthening both individuals and the broader community.

Life Insurance as a Lifeline: Reframing The Cornerstone Of Financial Resilience

By Abbie Rodriguez, Senior Vice President, Lending Experience, TruStage

Read how life insurance is shifting from a “nice‑to‑have” to a critical safety net for millions in an article in ADVISOR Magazine.

Additionally, don’t forget TruStage is hosting its life insurance webinar on April 30! Save your spot to attend this valuable learning opportunity by clicking here.

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