Shawn Gamble, Government Relations Officer at Visions Federal Credit Union, is headed to Washington, D.C. for the 2023 CUNA Governmental Affairs Conference, set for Feb. 26–March 2. Selected as the only representative from New York state to “crash” the GAC, Gamble is also the first crasher in Visions FCU history.

Crasher spots are limited and coveted, only awarded to the brightest talent and those who are passionate about serving others through cooperative finance. Crash the GAC is designed to spark new ways of thinking and build lasting relationships for emerging leaders and rising talent within the credit union industry.

“I am humbled to have the opportunity to be the first-ever crasher from Visions Federal Credit Union,” Gamble said. “Additionally, I am excited to expand my credit union network while also advocating to our lawmakers in D.C to highlight the work credit unions are doing in the communities we serve.”

With 233 applications submitted, the competition was tighter than ever for the 58 young professional crashers selected. The group represents 48 U.S. states and includes three scholarship winners from Africa, Australia and Ukraine.

“We’re excited to welcome this engaged group of young credit union professionals to our movement’s premier advocacy event,” said Jim Nussle, CUNA President/CEO. “They’ll have plenty to experience at the 2023 CUNA GAC, including amazing networking opportunities and the chance to advocate for the credit union difference to policymakers firsthand.”

Crashers will have access to exclusive events, including learning panels focused on leadership development, credit union history, community partnerships, engagement and key advocacy topics.

Crashers will leave the nation’s capital with a new hunger to help strengthen their communities and organizations. This highly competitive opportunity is also a launching pad for many emerging professionals’ careers and gives them the confidence and insight to make a profound and lasting impact in the industry.

Crash the GAC is supported by the Cooperative Trust and Filene Research Institute and made possible by the support from CUNA and assistance from League partners.

Congratulations, Shawn!

Follow coverage of the 2023 CUNA GAC on the New York Credit Union’s social media accounts, including Facebook. Additional coverage will be included in upcoming editions of New York Minute.