From advocacy and community impact to leadership recognition and industry events, credit unions across New York continue to demonstrate the power of cooperation in action! This week’s New York Minute highlights major milestones, honors, and more. Read on for the latest updates from around the movement.
Credit Unions Partner with Habitat for Humanity for Capitol Build Day
Credit unions from across New York rolled up their sleeves for Habitat for Humanity’s Capitol Build Day on May 26. The event brought together volunteers for a day of hands-on service to help expand access to affordable housing and support families on their path to homeownership. The effort demonstrates credit unions’ ongoing commitment to financial well-being beyond traditional banking services.
“Credit unions were built on the belief that everyone deserves access to affordable financial solutions and Capitol Build Day brings that belief to life,” said Association President & CEO William J. Mellin. “Partnering with Habitat for Humanity allows us to turn that mission into action, helping New Yorkers build stable financial futures from the ground up.”
The event continues to showcase how collaboration and community service remain at the heart of the credit union philosophy. We are grateful to our credit union members who supported the event and joined us for a day of community building and fun.
Long Island Chapter Raises $50,000 for the New York Credit Union Foundation
The Association’s Long Island Chapter is making a major investment in the future of the movement with a $50,000 contribution to the New York Credit Union Foundation following the success of its annual golf outing held on May 18 at Bellport Country Club.
The outing brought together credit union professionals, business partners, and supporters from across the region for a day of friendly competition, networking, collaboration, and fundraising—all in support of the Foundation’s mission to positively impact New Yorkers through credit unions.
Funds raised through events like this help support the Foundation’s educational initiatives, disaster relief efforts, professional development opportunities, and programs that empower credit unions to better serve their members.
Cassie Fortney of Sunmark Credit Union Recognized as 40 Under 40 by the Albany Business Review
Congratulations to Cassie Fortney of Sunmark Credit Union, who has been recognized by the Albany Business Review as part of its prestigious 40 Under 40 Class of 2026.
The award celebrates professionals who are helping shape the future of business and nonprofit leadership throughout the Capital Region. Fortney’s recognition highlights the growing influence of the credit union movement across New York. Not to mention the important role young leaders play in driving member service and community engagement forward. The honor is well-deserved!
Credit Union Leaders Receive Long Island Business News Executive Circle Honors
Two credit union leaders have been recognized by Long Island Business News with its 2026 Executive Circle Award, which celebrates high-performing executives who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and lasting impact within their organizations and communities.
This year’s honorees include:
- Scott Gyllensten, Chief Risk Officer, Teachers Federal Credit Union
- Eric Oterson, Chief Member Experience Officer, Jovia Financial Credit Union
Congratulations to both honorees! Their leadership plays a crucial role in advancing member experience, organizational growth, and community engagement. Awards like these continue to spotlight the strength of leadership within New York’s credit union movement and the dedication of professionals working every day to improve financial lives and strengthen their communities.
Alloya Returns to Nashville for 12th Annual Leadership Symposium
Alloya Corporate Federal Credit Union will return to Nashville this September for its 12th Annual Credit Union Leadership Symposium, bringing together credit union leaders from across the country for three days of insight, strategy, and collaboration.
Taking place September 9–11 at the Omni Nashville Hotel, the event will feature keynote presentations and discussions focused on innovation, leadership, artificial intelligence, economic trends, and the future of the credit union movement. This year’s speaker lineup includes innovation expert Josh Linkner, economist Elliot Eisenberg, AI expert Byron Reese, and former Navy commander Mike Abrashoff, among others.
In addition to educational sessions, this year’s symposium will also celebrate Alloya’s 15-year anniversary of serving credit unions nationwide.
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