This week in our blog, we’re sharing EXCEL 26 sponsorship opportunities and the Young Professional Commission nominations are now open. Plus, see the latest community initiatives from credit unions across the state and this year’s Crash the GAC winner. Get the latest industry news in the New York Minute!
Sponsorship Opportunities for EXCEL 26!
Looking to increase your organization’s visibility while supporting the credit union movement? EXCEL 26 sponsorship opportunities are now open, with options ranging from $500 to $5,000.
Your EXCEL 26 sponsorship will help to support events such as:
- Wine Pull benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals
- Trivia Night hosted by the Young Professionals Commission
- Bingo and the EXCEL 26 Kickoff Party
- Saturday Evening Gala
- And more!
Each sponsorship level includes unique promotional benefits before, during, and after Convention events. Learn more and save your spot today!
Submit Your Nominations: Young Professionals Commission
The Association is now accepting nominations for the Young Professionals Commission, a group dedicated to engaging and empowering the next generation of credit union leaders across New York State.
Key dates:
Submission deadline: February 27, 2026
Nominees notified: March 20, 2026
Eligible nominees must be age 39 or younger and employed by an Association member credit union. Members serve two-year terms, with a maximum of two consecutive terms.
Learn more and throw your hat in the ring today!
Sidney Federal Credit Union Announces $1 Million Initiative
Sidney Federal Credit Union has announced a $1 million community support initiative for 2026, reinforcing its commitment to local impact.
Titled Why SFCU? 1 Million Reasons, the yearlong initiative focuses on four essential areas:
- Housing
- Food and basic needs
- Education
- Transportation
Rather than one-time donations, the program emphasizes lasting impact through financial support, community partnerships, and employee volunteer efforts. Through this effort, SFCU continues to live the credit union philosophy of people helping people in tangible, everyday ways.
Northern CU’s Madison Sebella Named New York Crash the GAC Winner
Congratulations to Madison Sebella, Digital Engagement Professional at Northern Credit Union, on being selected as New York’s 2026 Crash the GAC winner! Madison was chosen from a highly competitive national pool of emerging credit union leaders to participate in this prestigious leadership and advocacy program.
Crash the GAC, hosted by the Filene Research Institute, brings rising professionals to Washington, D.C. for America’s Credit Unions’ Governmental Affairs Conference, taking place March 1–5, 2026. Participants gain a front-row seat to national advocacy efforts, connect with industry leaders, and deepen their understanding of the credit union movement’s impact.
Madison’s selection is a testament to her talent, passion, and commitment to the credit union mission, and a point of pride for New York’s credit union community. We look forward to seeing the impact she’ll make at GAC and beyond!
Broadview FCU Delivers Winter Essentials Across the State
As extreme cold swept across the state, Broadview Federal Credit Union expanded its Code Blue initiative to help protect vulnerable individuals and families.
This winter, Broadview is providing $60,000 in essential supplies to 28 shelters across the Capital Region, Buffalo, Syracuse, and Binghamton, doubling last year’s reach. Donations include 3,400 winter hats, 4,000 pairs of socks, 2,000 fleece blankets, gloves, hand warmers, and personal care items.
Broadview employees also volunteered their time to sort, package, and deliver supplies ahead of dangerous weather. The initiative reflects Broadview’s commitment to acting quickly, compassionately, and in partnership with local shelters when communities need it most.
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