Several Recognition Awards will be presented to New York credit union professionals and volunteers during EXCEL 19, the New York Credit Union Association’s Annual Meeting & Convention. Today’s featured award is the Outstanding Young Professional Award, which honors individuals 39 or younger whose commitment, hard work and achievements have enhanced their credit union or the entire New York credit union movement.

The Association’s Awards Committee has selected Richard Sellwood, VP of member services at Reliant Community FCU, as this year’s Outstanding Young Professional.

Sellwood has worked in the credit union movement for over 12 years. He has served on the Association’s Young Professionals Commission since June 2015 and was appointed chairman in 2018.

In his role on the Commission, Sellwood is tasked with developing strategies and tactics to engage, connect and empower the next generation of credit union leaders. He is an ardent credit union advocate who remains active with the Rochester Chapter and frequently attends and presents at industry events.

At the national level, Sellwood also serves on CUNA’s YP Committee, where he works to grow, promote and sustain the credit union movement. He was part of the New York-based team of young professionals that spearheaded CUNA’s first-ever national Young Professionals Conference.

Additionally, Sellwood is a CULAC/CUPAC Trustee in coordination with the Association. He has also served on the Member Resources Committee for CUNA’s Operations and Member Experience Council.

Sellwood earned his certification as a Credit Union Development Educator through the National Credit Union Foundation in September of 2016.

Along with his work within the credit union industry, Sellwood volunteers on the board of directors for the Badge of Honor Association, which supports law enforcement officers and their families across 26 counties in New York in the aftermath of critical incidents.