In this week’s New York Minute, we shine a spotlight on the various appointments and achievements of CU leaders, announce a new opportunity to attend EXCEL 24 through a scholarship, and more! Read this week’s blog for the latest in New York credit union news.
AmeriCU and Hudson Valley Credit Union Leaders Join NY Fed’s Advisory Council
The Association congratulates Ron Belle, President and CEO of AmeriCU Credit Union, and Jonathan Roberts, President and CEO of Hudson Valley Credit Union, who have been appointed to the New York Federal Reserve’s Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council (CDIAC) to serve a three-year term. This council is made up of leaders from commercial banks, thrift institutions, and credit unions headquartered within the Federal Reserve’s Second District with assets under $10 Billion, and serves as a bridge between the community depository sector and the Federal Reserve to offer critical insights on regional economic matters.
By engaging directly with the NY Fed president and first vice president biannually, the council provides an invaluable platform for discussing issues relating to the financial health and stability of community-based institutions. Ron and Jonathan’s appointments to the CDIAC recognizes them as exceptional leaders within the credit union movement and affirms the sector’s integral contribution to the broader financial landscape.
The Association congratulates both Ron and Jonathan on their appointments. It looks forward to the positive impact their participation will undoubtedly have on both the council and the credit union community at large.
New Leaders Join FOCUS NY Board and Association’s GAC
The Association is pleased to announce the recent appointments to the FOCUS NY Board of Trustees and the Governmental Affairs Committee.
Scott VanZandt brings his extensive financial expertise to the FOCUS NY Board, which serves as New York’s dedicated political action committee for supporting pro-credit union legislative candidates with a bipartisan focus. It strengthens credit unions’ influence in state government, backed by contributors committed to protecting credit union interests. Governed by a diverse committee, FOCUS NY drives crucial advocacy efforts, ensuring credit unions have a powerful voice in shaping favorable state policies.
Scott is Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Hudson Valley Credit Union (HVCU), a NY state-chartered credit union located in Poughkeepsie. An engaged employee of the organization since 1997 he has held a variety of positions at HVCU including VP of financial planning, analysis and compliance, controller, and accounting manager, and has overseen numerous operational areas for the credit union including accounting, finance, treasury, mergers and acquisitions, compliance, physical operations and security, business intelligence, collections, wealth management, insurance services, and HVCU’s full-service contact center. Scott has an MBA in Finance from Marist College and a BS in Accounting from Mount Saint Mary College.
Joining the Association’s Governmental Affairs Committee are Gary Grinnell and Robert Suarez. The Governmental Affairs Committee advises the Association Board on legislative and regulatory matters impacting credit unions and spearheads advocacy efforts. It is responsible for staying informed on relevant issues, creating annual and long-term advocacy plans, and encouraging credit union participation in advocacy. The committee is comprised of credit union CEOs or senior officials responsible for advocacy, and convenes at least three times a year to focus on strategic advocacy engagement.
Gary was named President and CEO of Corning Credit Union in January 2007 after joining the organization in 1997. During his career, he has held numerous management roles in internal audit, consumer and real estate lending, risk management, and member services before being named Executive VP/COO in 2005. Gary currently serves on America’s Credit Unions’ Board of Directors as well as the Southern Tier Economic Growth Board of Directors and has previously served as a member and Chairman of the Board of NAFCU. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Management Science from SUNY Geneseo.
Robert Suarez is the Assistant VP of Community Development & Government Affairs at Bethpage FCU. Through his work with the public over the last 21 years, Rob has remained committed to proactively serving our rapidly growing communities by providing the necessary resources to empower families to save for the future they want. When he’s not spreading financial awareness, Rob enjoys spending time with his three children. Rob loves attending his daughter’s dance recitals and school plays and joining his sons at their hockey and basketball practices and games. Rob’s commitment to community and family shapes his daily purpose as he strives to help people reach their goals.
These appointments underscore our commitment to leveraging diverse expertise for the advancement of all New York credit unions. We congratulate Scott, Gary, and Robert on their new roles and look forward to their contributions.
Alloya Offers a Scholarship Opportunity for EXCEL 24
The Association and Alloya are proud to offer the Christine M. Gross (CMG) Scholarship for those looking to attend EXCEL 24. This scholarship covers registration fees, hotel accommodations, and travel expenses for the conference, and presents a fantastic opportunity for New York credit union employees to engage in our annual event dedicated to professional growth and industry networking without the financial responsibility. This scholarship honors Christine M. Gross’s legacy and reinforces the collaborative spirit of the New York credit union community.
To apply, complete the form on the Alloya website. All applications are due by Wednesday, May 1.
We’re grateful to Alloya for making this opportunity available and reinforcing their commitment to supporting the development of New York’s credit union professionals. We encourage all eligible credit union employees to apply. For more information, click below.
Celebrating a Trailblazer: National Credit Union Foundation Announces Gigi Hyland’s Retirement
Gigi Hyland, Executive Director of the National Credit Union Foundation, has announced her retirement effective December 31, 2024. Since joining the Foundation in 2013, Hyland has left an enduring mark on the credit union movement, driving significant growth and championing financial well-being and education. Hyland’s legacy includes 33 years of advocacy, regulatory leadership, and philanthropy within the credit union system. Her career achievements include being inducted into the America’s Credit Union Museum’s “Herstory” exhibit and receiving the Maurice R. Smith DEI Leadership Award.
Under her guidance, the Foundation not only doubled in asset size but also saw its annual Foundation Dinner and the Herb Wegner Memorial Awards become cornerstone events. Hyland’s tenure was marked by her dedication to financial wellness, the introduction of innovative educational resources, and her pivotal role in founding the CU DEI Collective.
The search for Hyland’s successor is underway, led by Hudson RPO in collaboration with a team from America’s Credit Unions.
Hyland’s retirement marks the end of an era for the credit union movement, but her impact will undoubtedly continue to resonate for years to come. Read more about her career and achievements in the Foundation’s press release.
Spotlight on Success: Honoring Three CU Leaders’ Achievements
The Association celebrates the achievements of New York credit union leaders who have been recognized for their exceptional contributions and regional influence.
Eric Hepkins, CEO of Cornerstone Community FCU, has earned a spot on Buffalo Business First’s ‘Power 250’ list. This accolade highlights the most influential figures in Western New York, and Eric’s inclusion is a testament to his positive impact and leadership within the credit union and the broader community.
In Dutchess County, two distinguished leaders from Hudson Valley Credit Union have been named to the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce’s 40 under 40 Movers & Shakers list. Erica Bush, Senior Branch Manager and AVP, and John DeAngelis, Community Relations Coordinator, have been recognized for their achievements and their dedication to fostering growth and development within the credit union sector. Their innovative approaches and commitment to excellence have significantly contributed to the prosperity of their communities.
These achievements by Eric, Erica, and John acknowledge the caliber of their leadership and dedication within the New York credit union movement and their respective communities. Join us in congratulating them on their well-deserved honors and we look forward to their continued successes.
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