In this edition of the New York Minute, we’re bringing you the highlight reel from this year’s State Government Affairs Conference. Read our weekly blog to relive the conference and see how our credit union professionals made the most of their two days in Albany!
Highlights from Day One of State GAC 2025
The State Government Affairs Conference started off on a strong note! Our first day was filled with exciting presentations from experts in New York State legislation and the credit union industry.
Lawmakers spoke to attendees about how they’re prioritizing credit union support behind the scenes. We heard from Assemblywoman Pamela Hunter, Assemblyman Billy Jones, Assemblyman Paul Bologna, Senator George Borrello, Assemblymember Dana Levenberg, and Assemblyman Charles Fall.
Then, Maggie Pope delivered an enlightening presentation highlighting FOCUS NY and the importance of supporting pro-credit union officials. Also, Amy Kramer, the Association’s Chief Advocacy Officer, facilitated a discussion between Rick Ostroff and Diana Ostroff of Ostroff Associates, a leading New York State government relations firm. The conversation provided a future outlook of state politics and expert insights on how to navigate the legislative landscape as credit union advocates.
Thank you to the following credit unions who attended and made our first day a hit!
Lawmaker Reception at The Shelf
We ended our first night of State GAC with a lawmaker reception at The Shelf! Our credit union professionals mixed and mingled with NYS senators and assembly members at the unique space in the Renaissance Hotel. Take a look at the photos from the night.
We Did It! Second Annual FOCUS NY Day of Giving a Success
The Association and FOCUS NY are proud to announce that we crushed our fundraising goal during this year’s Day of Giving! Thanks to all of our generous donors, we were able to raise $32,800, surpassing our one-day target of $30,000 to benefit FOCUS NY.
The second annual Day of Giving aims to support the mission of FOCUS NY, the Association’s political action committee, which supports bipartisan New York legislators who will bolster the credit union mission at a state and federal level.
“I’d like to thank the FOCUS NY Board of Trustees for their extensive efforts put forth to make the second annual Day of Giving such a success,” said William J. Mellin, Association President & CEO. “Thank you to Maggie Pope from Mountain Valley FCU, Ron Belle from AmeriCU Credit Union, Andrew Smith from Sidney FCU, Chris Hay from Dannemora FCU, Inna Sprague from Teachers FCU, Scott Van Zandt from Hudson Valley Credit Union, and Jesse Reib, the young professional designee, from First Heritage FCU.”
Thank you to everyone who helped us accomplish this impressive achievement! With your help, we can continue to make our voices heard. FOCUS NY fundraises year-round, and donations are still encouraged. Learn more and give below!
State GAC Credit Union Attendees Participate in ‘Hill Hikes’
Our final day of the State Government Affairs Conference was a busy one! Our attendees visited the state capitol and spoke to legislators and their offices about the importance of supporting the credit union mission.
Thank you to the following legislators and their offices for taking the time to meet with New York’s credit unions!
Take a look at photos from the day!
Stay ahead of the curve by subscribing to receive credit union news and updates directly to your inbox.