Vicky Burdick is the CEO of Jamestown Area Community FCU and a seasoned professional with decades of experience in the credit union industry. Serving as a prominent member of the Association’s board of directors. We spoke with her about her experience with the Association’s Board of Directors and her insights into the credit union world. From her initial entry into the industry to her current role, Vicky shares her passion for serving the credit union community and highlights the unique qualities of both the Association and credit unions at large.

Can you share a brief introduction about yourself, your background, and your professional journey?

I’ve been working in the credit union industry since 1978. It was my first job out of college. I took credit union accounting and management through CUNA and the University of Wisconsin back in the day. I am married and have three wonderful children, six grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

What drew you to the credit union industry?

I stayed with the credit union industry because of its mission of people helping people, the ability to build relationships with the members, and seeing the results of our efforts to them through hard times. It was just by chance that I ended up in the credit union industry, but I never looked back.

What motivated you to join the Association’s board of directors?

I was active in the Jamestown Chapter and was approached to become a director when ours passed away. It was the hunger for knowledge and wanting to make a difference that led me to agree to run for the position.

In your view, what makes the Association distinct from other financial associations?

We are not just advocates, we are family and we care about the future and wellbeing of all of our credit unions. We are willing to step in with assistance and advice to any credit union that needs us. We foster relationships with credit unions that result in a willingness to help each other in hard times. The listservs are an invaluable tool that we all depend on. We care that our credit unions are successful, and we care about how regulations can affect a credit union and its members. We work hard to make sure all credit unions can thrive and continue to be successful.

Why are credit unions important to New Yorkers and the broader community?

In many cases, a credit union is a lifeline for a member or small business. How many financial institutions would lend $200.00 to a member to get them to the next payday, lend money to a family to pay for a funeral, or travel to another country because their family member passed away? Perhaps it’s helping them purchase their first home or sending a child to college. There are so many cases where we have engaged in non-traditional lending that other financial institutions would not have. Also, we have refused to do a loan that would not be in the best interest of our members. Perhaps it is too expensive a car, or a bad deal from a dealership, a toy they can’t really afford, or many other cases where the member just can’t afford the loan. Financial wellness for members is a top priority for credit unions and we educate our members to be financially savvy.

What role do you believe a board member plays in the success of the Association?

We come into all meetings knowing what is needed by the credit unions in New York. We see it every day and are an important piece of the puzzle when it comes to the direction and action that the Association needs to take. By joining our collective thoughts on real-world situations and challenges, we’re able to come up with great solutions to navigate today’s financial landscape.

Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your tenure on the board?

There are way too many to try and pick one. I love the ability to meet all the wonderful speakers at the convention, seeing and experiencing the difference they make in our movement. One recent event that I found remarkable to be a part of was the 100th anniversary of the association when we took a picture on the lawn of The Sagamore. To see all the attendees on the lawn, unified for the common purpose of “People Helping People” was amazing. To know that many of us share a common cause of a brighter financial future for our members is powerful and meaningful.

What advice would you give to someone considering a board position with the Association?

Just jump in and do it. You will find it challenging, educational, and rewarding. The role is sometimes difficult but when all is done, the satisfaction of helping the credit union movement is well worth it. The relationships you build are invaluable for a lifetime.

In what ways has your experience on the board been rewarding?

I have seen the results of the time and effort put into projects and pro-credit union initiatives. The end results of our discussions and collaborative decision-making have resulted in a better environment for credit unions. The assistance the Association has provided to numerous credit unions which resulted in their survival rather than merging into a bigger credit union has been extremely rewarding to see. Knowing you are part of a bigger picture results in a better environment for everyone.

Outside of the Association and your professional life, what are some of your passions or hobbies?

I love crafting, cooking, baking, sewing, glass painting, reading a good book, and cruising to Bermuda. My real passion is with my church where I serve as head of the Bereavement Committee. Our committee reaches out to families who have lost a loved one and provides hugs, prayers, and assistance with the funeral. We offer a meal and fellowship after the funeral to take that burden off the family. The meal is prepared by me and others and served with love to these families. This is so meaningful to the family and to me. I have been through some tough times with losing my first husband and my daughter. It makes my heart sing to know I have helped these families and to be able to fully understand what they are going through. I am also still involved in our Children’s Safety Village and the mission they have of teaching our children fire safety, traffic safety, bike safety as well as education on abuse and other topics as necessary.

What’s one book or resource you’d recommend to someone looking to understand the world of credit unions better?

I would recommend anyone new to the credit union movement to read the educational material that is available through America’s Credit Unions (formally CUNA) on the history and philosophy of the credit union movement. The one thing new people to the movement initially lack is the passion for the purpose of the movement. Unless they grew up around credit unions, they have no idea of the purpose or mission of credit unions.

Share a fun fact or a memorable anecdote related to your time at the Association.

I was going through some old pictures and came across a picture of the board taken with Cal Ripken Jr. As I am looking at this, I realized that Bill Mellin and I are the only two still with the Association. I took the picture to the next board meeting to show Bill and let him know we are the last two standing of those from the picture. In other words, I told him we’re getting old. LOL.

Vicky’s journey showcases the spirit of the credit union industry: people helping people. Her story reflects the dedication and resilience that has driven her career, and her insights offer a glimpse into the enduring impact of the Association and its members. From fostering relationships with credit unions across New York to advocating for their success, Vicky’s work is a testament to the support the Association has provided for our members and the communities they serve.