The New York Minute: A Holiday Message, Leadership Update, and More!

On By nycuaIn NY Minute

Happy holidays from your Association! This week in the New York Minute, hear from our President & CEO, see a leadership update, register for the World Credit Union Conference, and more. Get all the latest New York credit union updates from across the state in the weekly New York Minute blog.

A Holiday Message from President & CEO William J. Mellin

Bill Mellin, President & CEO of the Association, who shared a holiday message.

Happy Thanksgiving!

As you gather with friends and family to celebrate the holiday, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you. Your dedication, leadership, and unwavering support for New York’s credit unions—and for the credit union movement as a whole—have made this year truly meaningful.

Over the past year, we’ve navigated new opportunities and challenges, embraced change, and continued to strengthen the communities we serve. Despite obstacles, your resilience and commitment have driven real progress. Because of your work, our movement is stronger, more connected, and better positioned to serve members across the state.

Thank you for the collaboration, energy, and passion you bring to everything you do. It’s an honor to work alongside you in service of our shared mission.

From my family to yours, wishing you a warm, joyful, and safe Thanksgiving!

Sincerely,

Bill

Mid-Hudson Valley FCU Introduces New President & CEO

A gradshot of Razi Qadri, who recently saw a leadership update as he was named President & CEO of Mid-Hudson Valley FDU

Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union has named Razi Qadri as its new President and CEO, an exciting leadership transition for the 93,000-member credit union. Qadri brings more than 20 years of experience in financial services, most recently serving as COO and CIO at Lake Trust Credit Union. His career also includes leadership roles at Lake Michigan Credit Union, Flagstar Bank, and Daimler Chrysler Corporation.

Known for championing innovation, teamwork, and exceptional member experiences, Qadri will lead MHV into its next chapter with an emphasis on digital enhancements, meaningful community impact, and forward-thinking financial solutions. Members can expect a leader committed to empowering financial futures, while embracing the people and traditions that make the Hudson Valley unique. Qadri holds a master’s degree from Wayne State University.

Congratulations to Razi Qadri on this new role at MHVFCU!

Registration Open for the 2026 World Credit Union Conference

World Council of Credit Unions logo

Registration is officially open for the 2026 World Credit Union Conference (WCUC), taking place July 19–22, 2026, in Sydney, Australia. Hosted by the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU) in partnership with the Customer Owned Banking Association (COBA), this global gathering will bring together more than 2,500 credit union professionals from 60 countries.

The WCUC 2026 itinerary features:

  • Three keynote speakers
  • 28 breakout sessions
  • Thought-leading content on advocacy, digital transformation, AI, membership growth, and emerging trends shaping the global credit union movement.

This is the premier opportunity to expand your international network, learn from top industry voices, and collaborate with peers committed to the cooperative mission. Whether you’re focused on innovation, regulatory insights, or leadership growth, the conference offers powerful takeaways.

Click below to learn more and register for WCUC 2026.

Learn More & Register

NYS DMV Electronic Lien Filing and Lien Releases

NYS Department of Motor Vehicles logo

Many credit unions use the New York State Department of Motor Vehicle Electronic Lien Transfer (ELT) System to file their liens. The NYS DMV reminds credit unions that the ELT system should also be used to release liens. For more information, check out the NYS DMV website (Add or Remove a Lienholder | NY DMV) and the ELT user manual (ELT-1: Electronic Lien Transfer Program (PDF)).

Department Of State Issues Holiday Season Warning To Shoppers About Buy Now, Pay Later Financing

NYS Department of State Consumer Protection logo

The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is urging shoppers to use caution with Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) financing this holiday season, citing growing concerns about unintended debt accumulation. BNPL allows consumers to split payments into installments, often interest-free if paid on time, but late or missed payments can trigger steep fees, high interest rates, and potential credit score impacts.

As BNPL becomes more widely used, especially among young adults, many consumers are stacking loans across multiple platforms, resulting in large combined monthly bills. Studies show BNPL can encourage overspending and impulsive purchasing, with defaults rising nationwide.

To stay safe, officials recommend:

  • Reviewing all payment terms
  • Budgeting carefully
  • Tracking multiple plans
  • Automating payments
  • Avoiding impulse buys

Consumers should also understand how BNPL may affect their credit, as policies vary by lender. New Yorkers needing assistance can contact the Consumer Assistance Helpline at 1-800-697-1220 or file complaints online. The Division also shares regular consumer protection tips on Facebook and Instagram.

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