Can you share a brief introduction about yourself, your background, and your professional journey?
I’m a native Long Islander. I grew up in a town called West Islip on the south shore of Long Island. After high school, I ventured upstate to attend college at SUNY Geneseo. It was a bit of a culture shock, but I loved the area. I graduated, returned to Long Island, and eventually migrated back to the Binghamton area where I attended SUNY Binghamton. I needed a job to make ends meet and wound up securing a teller position at a local credit union. I was familiar with credit unions, but basically stumbled upon my new role.

After several years, I moved to Rochester and applied for a position at The Summit Federal Credit Union. The rest is history. My tenure at The Summit has been very rewarding. I’ve had the opportunity to work with amazing people, assume many different roles, and wear many hats. I’ve been serving as President & CEO since February of 2020.

On a personal note, I have a very understanding and supportive husband who helps me juggle our family obligations. Jerry and I have two kids living at home who continue to keep us on our toes! I wouldn’t have it any other way.

What drew you to the credit union industry?
I was familiar with the concept of credit unions from a very young age. I was a member of Bethpage Federal Credit Union since I was a baby. My whole family belonged. As a college student working for Northrup Grumman, I would cash my paycheck each week in a trailer that served as the credit union’s on-site branch. I guess credit unions are just part of my DNA.

When an opportunity arose to work at a credit union, I found it a bit intriguing. Securing a job at a credit union was one of those full-circle moments for me.

What motivated you to join the Association’s board of directors?
My sole purpose for pursuing and maintaining a career in the credit union industry is to make a difference. I’m always looking for new ways to contribute and give back. My journey has literally taken me from the shores of Long Island to Rochester, with several interesting detours along the way. Because I migrated across the state, I feel very familiar and at home almost anywhere in New York.

When the opportunity arose to represent credit unions across the state, it was a natural fit. I love New York and the uniqueness of the various regions. The opportunity to meet new people, represent credit unions of various sizes, and help foster unity within our industry is a privilege.

In your view, what makes the Association distinct from other financial associations?
It always comes back to the credit union mission of “people helping people” and the reason credit unions exist. Attend EXCEL, our annual convention, and you will see the comradery in action. Comradery is a feeling of trust and a bond created by a shared goal or experience. The Association effectively sets the stage for the magic to occur, and the result is unmatched.

Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your tenure on the board?
I remember being elected for my first term to the Board of Directors and being so excited to receive a phone call letting me know that. It was actually Bill Mellin who made that call, and I remember saving the message for quite a while. It was an honor.

What Association initiatives or projects are you most excited about?
I’m most excited about our Young Professionals Commission. We attract so many passionate and energized young people who want to make a difference. At The Summit, we have a line of people waiting to get involved. Everyone has raved about their experience. We need to develop the next generation of credit union leaders, and this is one way to accomplish that. (And they are fun!).

What advice would you give to someone considering a board position with the Association?
Always follow your instincts. If you think a Board position would be a rewarding experience for you, just take the leap and run. It’s a unique opportunity.

In what ways has your experience on the board been rewarding?
The experience has been rewarding in so many different ways. I think most significant is the relationships I’ve built with fellow board members, legislators, association staff, and other credit union leaders around the state. As a board member, there are many opportunities to network and learn from others.

Why should someone consider joining the Association board or becoming more involved with credit unions in general?
The industry needs dedicated individuals to help move credit unions forward in many different capacities. The world is changing and we have to change with it. Helping to generate solutions and usher in that evolution is so necessary – and rewarding.

Outside of the Association and your professional life, what are some of your passions or hobbies?
I love traveling, spending time with my family, and entertaining. I like volunteering for community organizations. I’m a bit of a political junkie – I follow CNN and Fox News every day. Our political system fascinates me.

What’s one book or resource you’d recommend to someone looking to understand the world of credit unions better?
Always consider visiting other credit unions as the ultimate learning opportunity. Many of us attend conferences, webinars and the like, but nothing beats seeing a different credit union with your own eyes.

Share a fun fact or a memorable anecdote related to your time at the Association.
Fun fact: If you need someone to drive a group of you to a restaurant in a borrowed mini-van and effectively parallel park in the smallest parking spot you have ever seen, Keith Stone, President & CEO of The Finest FCU, is that person!

Laurie represents the power of dedication, community spirit, and the unique impact of the credit union movement. Her journey from a teller position to becoming the President and CEO of The Summit FCU is a story of growth and building meaningful relationships. Through her active involvement with the Association’s Board of Directors, Laurie continues to champion the values of unity, support, and growth within the credit union industry.