This week in the New York Minute, we’re calling on our credit union community to make our voices heard at a national level. Then, we’re announcing this year’s scholarship recipients, influential credit union leaders, and more. Get the latest credit union news in the New York Minute!
Tell Congress: Don’t Tax My Credit Union
Credit unions across the country are facing a serious threat. As Congress works on the next federal tax bill, there is growing concern that the long-standing tax-exempt status of credit unions could be diminished or eliminated. This would not only hurt credit unions, it would also directly impact the more than 140 million members nationwide who rely on them for financial services and community support.
We need unified, immediate advocacy from our credit union community.
Take action today by sending a message to your representatives. It only takes a few clicks to urge Congress to preserve the tax-exempt status of credit unions. Let them know: taxing credit unions is taxing everyday Americans.
For those looking to amplify their advocacy, several resources are available, including the Member Activation Program, the Grassroots Action Center, and Project Zip Code. Get involved and engage your peers, volunteers, staff, and membership in this critical fight.
Announcing the 2025 Winners of the Association Scholarship Program!
The Association is proud to announce the winners of its 2025 Scholarship Program. This year, 50 outstanding student members from across the state will receive a combined total of $32,250 in scholarships, thanks to the support of 64 credit unions and four regional chapters.
These exceptional recipients were selected from more than 1,200 applicants and evaluated on academic performance, leadership, community service, extracurricular activities, and writing. Scholarship awards range from $250 to $1,500, helping these students take the next step in their academic journeys.
We’re proud to recognize and support the next generation of leaders in the credit union community.
Visit our website to view the full list of scholarship recipients and learn more about the program.
Long Island Credit Union Leaders Named Influencers in Banking and Finance
Congratulations to the following credit union professionals for being named 2025 Influencers in Banking and Finance by Long Island Business News:
- Michele Dean, Suffolk Credit Union
- Carol Allen, People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union
- Linda Armyn, FourLeaf Federal Credit Union
- Joseph Tedesco, Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union
- Brad Calhoun, Teachers Federal Credit Union
- John Deieso, Jovia Financial Federal Credit Union
- Craig Booth, Island Federal Credit Union
These leaders were recognized for their commitment to innovation, strategic growth, and deep community engagement. Their efforts are not only strengthening their institutions but also uplifting local families, businesses, and nonprofits throughout Long Island.
Their inclusion in this list is a testament to the enduring impact of credit union leadership and the difference it makes in both the financial world and the communities we serve. Click below to view these recognitions.
NYCUA Rochester Chapter Raises Funds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace
The Association’s Rochester Chapter is making a real difference in the lives of local children. Through a recent fundraiser, the chapter raised $1,250 for Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP), a nonprofit dedicated to building and delivering beds to children in need.
Thanks to this generous donation, SHP will be able to build five new beds, helping ensure that no child in the community has to sleep on the floor. The donation supports SHP’s broader mission: “No Kid Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town,” a commitment that goes beyond bed-building to foster service, connection, and opportunity.
We applaud the Rochester Chapter for their dedication to supporting children and families and for exemplifying the credit union spirit of people helping people.
TruStageTM and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® Announce New Sponsorship Agreement
Donation to Fund Nine Events Across the U.S. to Benefit Children’s Health
By: TruStage and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Staff
TruStageTM, a leader in providing insurance and financial services to credit unions and their members, is proud to announce its new sponsorship agreement with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® (CMN Hospitals). As a part of the new agreement, TruStage will commit $392,500 to CMN Hospitals through Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids), the charity of choice for the credit union industry. The dollars will be used to sponsor nine events across the country, aimed at raising funds and awareness for the treatment and care of children in local hospitals.
“We are honored to support the incredible work of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and the credit union industry through Credit Unions for Kids,” said TruStage Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Tammy Schultz. “This contribution is a testament to our dedication to make a positive impact in the communities we serve. By sponsoring these nine events, we hope to help raise vital funds and awareness for children’s health—a critical concern for both TruStage and credit unions.”
TruStage will help raise $7.5 million in 2025 through these nine events. More than 200 credit unions participate in these events and over 125 hospitals will benefit from the funds raised.
John Bratsakis, President and CEO of MD|DC Credit Union Association and Chair of the CU4Kids Advisory Board, adds, “Our industry would not be able to put on events like the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Run and others, without the support of our long-term and trusted partner TruStage. We are very grateful for their long-term commitment and support.”
Credit Unions for Kids is a national collaboration between credit unions and CMN Hospitals that raises funds to support pediatric healthcare services. These donations fund life-saving treatments, research, medical equipment, and support programs for children.
The sponsorship of the nine upcoming events will provide critical financial support to hospitals in various regions of the country, directly benefiting children and families in need.
“We are extremely grateful for TruStage’s generous contribution,” said Kristen Schavemaker, Chief Programs and Foundation Partnerships Officer at CMN Hospitals. “Their sponsorship plays a crucial role in advancing our mission to provide the best possible care for children in need. These events will make a real difference in the lives of millions of children across the nation.”
Over the last 25 years, TruStage has contributed close to $1.9 million to CMN Hospitals.
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