This week, we’re bringing you exciting updates from credit unions across the state! Recognition Award nominations are now open for EXCEL 26, vendor/exhibitor registration for EXCEL 26 is now live, see which organizations and leaders were recently honored, and hear valuable insights from Origence. Read all the industry updates in the New York Minute!

Recognition Awards: Submit Your Nominations Today!

Nominations are now open for the Association’s 2026 Recognition Awards! This is an opportunity to recognize credit union professionals who make a lasting impact on New York’s credit union movement. Each year, these awards honor individuals whose leadership, service, and dedication strengthen credit unions and the members they serve.

Individual awards include:

• Outstanding Young Professional
• Outstanding Professional
• Outstanding Volunteer
• New York Credit Union Hall of Fame

All award recipients will be honored during EXCEL 26, the New York Credit Union Association’s Annual Meeting & Convention, on Saturday, June 13, at the Saratoga Hilton in Saratoga Springs.

Winners receive complimentary registration for themselves and a guest, plus a one-night stay at the Saratoga Hilton. Nominations close March 2, with winners notified in mid-March. Click below to learn more about each award and to submit your nominations.

New York Credit Unions Named America’s Best by Newsweek

New York credit unions are making waves nationally, with 60 institutions named to Newsweek’s 2026 list of America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions. This recognition highlights institutions that power local economies, support small businesses, and deliver trusted financial services rooted in community connection.

The rankings are based on a comprehensive methodology that evaluates financial health, media presence, and customer experience. Data sources included the Texas Ratio, profitability, net loans, national press coverage, and large-scale consumer feedback, drawing from more than 71,000 surveys, 1.9 million social media reviews, and 129 million mobile app reviews.

This year’s results reflect the growing visibility and impact of New York credit unions. If your credit union made the list, click below to claim your award and learn how to use it to amplify your story.

Kyle Markland, Municipal CU CEO, Recognized by City & State New York

Congratulations to Kyle Markland, CEO of Municipal Credit Union, on being named to City & State New York’s 2025 Responsible 100. This annual list recognizes leaders across New York who demonstrate social responsibility through community engagement, ethics, philanthropy, and a commitment to equity and inclusion.

Since becoming CEO in 2020, Markland has guided Municipal Credit Union through a period of transformation, expanding access to affordable financial services across all five boroughs. He also led the creation of the MCU Foundation in 2023, strengthening the credit union’s philanthropic impact citywide.

In addition to leading MCU, Markland serves on the boards of the MCU Foundation and the National Credit Union Foundation. His recognition underscores the credit union movement’s continued leadership in advancing financial inclusion and social good. Join us in recognizing Kyle for this honor!

EXCEL 26: Vendor/Exhibitor Registration Now Open!

Vendor/exhibitor registration is now open for EXCEL 26, your opportunity to connect directly with hundreds of New York credit union leaders. With five hours of dedicated EXPO time across two days, plus receptions, networking events, and educational sessions, EXCEL 26 delivers unmatched visibility and engagement.

Organizations can choose from Premier, Contributing, or Standard exhibitor options, each offering booth space, event access, and promotion through the EXCEL app and printed materials. Premier and Contributing Exhibitors receive additional benefits, including CEO reception access, enhanced signage, and website advertising. Numerous add-on sponsorship opportunities are also available to maximize exposure.

A dedicated hotel block is reserved for exhibitors at the Brookmere Hotel, with a reservation deadline of May 9, 2026. Space is limited, and early registration is strongly encouraged.

From Insight to Action: Leveraging Member Data for Credit Union Success

By Origence

Credit unions have never had more tools at their fingertips, with unprecedented access to data, technology, and member insights. This creates a pivotal opportunity to transform strategies by harnessing the power of internal member data. Traditional credit scores and external sources have long been the foundation of lending decisions, but they no longer tell the full story. Member data that is rich, delivered in real-time, and deeply contextual, offers a new frontier for smarter, more resilient lending.

Why internal data is the game-changer

For years, credit unions relied on external credit bureaus to assess risk. While those evaluations remain useful, they often miss the nuanced behaviors of a member’s relationship with their credit union. Transaction histories, digital engagement, and service usage can reveal early indicators of financial stress or opportunity.

By auditing internal data, credit unions can uncover predictive signals that enhance risk modeling and provide a more complete picture of creditworthiness. With a more holistic view of member behavior, credit unions can make smart decisions and strengthen relationships.

Real-time data: The new standard for lending

Economic volatility demands agility. Annual or semi-annual credit score refreshes are no longer sufficient. Credit unions need dynamic portfolio management, with data updates occurring monthly, or even more frequently.

Real-time data enables early detection of risk, allowing institutions to intervene before delinquencies occur. A sudden drop of account activity or a missed payment can signal emerging financial stress. Integrating these signals into lending strategies helps credit unions act proactively, protect relationships, and support members when they need it most.

Proactive risk management builds trust

Internal data empowers credit unions to identify members facing financial stress—rising credit card balances, auto loan defaults, or mortgage payment delays. For example, if a member’s transaction history shows increasing reliance on overdraft protection or missed utility payments, these signals can trigger early outreach.

Effective risk mitigation can also be an extension of member care. Offering refinancing options, budgeting tools, hardship programs, or personalized counseling strengthens trust and promotes long-term financial wellness.

How to build a resilient lending framework

To fully leverage member data, credit unions must rethink operations and decision-making. Here’s the framework:

• Cross-functional collaboration: Break down product silos and create teams with visibility across all member touchpoints. A holistic view of the member relationship enables more accurate risk assessments and personalized lending solutions.
• Flexible decision strategies: Separate risk models from decision strategies. While risk models may remain stable during economic shifts, decision strategies must be adaptable. This flexibility ensures credit unions can respond swiftly to changing conditions without compromising consistency.
• Technology infrastructure: Invest in platforms that support real-time data processing and AI-driven decision engines. These tools can analyze vast datasets quickly, identify patterns, and recommend actions, all while maintaining compliance and member trust.

Actionable steps for credit union leaders

To build smarter lending strategies using member data, credit unions should consider the following roadmap:

1. Audit internal data for behavioral and transactional signals beyond credit scores.
2. Move from annual reviews to monthly or real-time portfolio assessments.
3. Develop dashboards combining macroeconomic trends with member-level data.
4. Create cross-functional teams for holistic decision-making.
5. Build adaptive strategies that respond to changing conditions.
6. Upgrade technology to support real-time integration and advanced analytics.

The competitive edge

Credit unions that embrace internal member data as a strategic asset will be better equipped to navigate uncertainty, serve their communities, and grow sustainably. This isn’t just a tech upgrade, it’s a cultural shift. It requires leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to putting members at the center of every lending decision.

The future of lending is about managing risk and deepening relationships. By leveraging internal data, embracing proactive risk management, and building adaptable decision frameworks, credit unions can continue to serve their communities with confidence and care.

Ready to transform your lending strategy?

Origence gives credit unions the tools and expertise to turn member data into smarter, faster, and more personalized lending decisions. Learn more and start building the future of lending today.

In our latest New York Minute, we have exciting news from across the state, from our annual lineup to a new initiative from NYCUF. Plus, see updates on community support and see which credit union has named a new President and CEO. Get all this week’s industry news in our blog!

Announcing the Association’s 2026 Annual Lineup!

The Association is excited to announce its full lineup of 2026 events designed to educate, connect, and inspire credit union professionals across New York State.

From compliance and lending to advocacy, leadership development, and marketing, the 2026 calendar offers programming for every role and career stage. Highlights include:

• Compliance Essentials on-demand webinar series
• America’s Credit Unions GAC in Washington, D.C. and State GAC in Albany, NY
• Multiple CEO Roundtables and Lending School sessions statewide
• EXCEL 26 in Saratoga Springs
• Specialized conferences for marketing, emerging leaders, volunteers, and executives

Whether you attend one event or build your professional development plan around several, these experiences are designed to strengthen your credit union and expand your network.

View dates, locations, and full details on the website, and save your spot today!

The New York Credit Union Foundation Announces Friends of the Foundation Initiative

The New York Credit Union Foundation has launched an exciting new initiative, Friends of the Foundation, to deepen engagement and expand its impact statewide.

Through this program, credit unions that are corporate members of the Foundation will have the ability to add the Foundation as an affiliate association to their field of membership. Any New York based federal- or state-chartered credit union with a single or multiple common bond or associational charter can apply to the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) or New York State Department of Financial Services (NYS DFS) to add the Foundation to its field of membership. If/when approved by the regulator, consumers will become eligible for membership in the credit union by becoming a member/donor of the Foundation.

Friends of the Foundation benefits include:

• Connection to the credit union “people helping people” mission
• Access to participating credit union products and services
• Insider updates through a Foundation e-newsletter
• A voice in Foundation governance
• Exclusive access to Remynt credit-builder tools

This initiative strengthens philanthropy while supporting credit unions and credit union members across New York. Learn more and see how to get involved on the Foundation website!

First New York FCU Names Vik Muktavaram as Next President & CEO

First New York Federal Credit Union has appointed Vik Muktavaram as its next President and CEO, following the planned retirement of Lucy Halstead.

Muktavaram becomes the ninth CEO in the credit union’s 88-year history and brings extensive experience in financial leadership, risk management, and strategic consulting. This includes roles as Executive Vice President and CFO at Sunmark Credit Union, after joining the organization as Chief Risk Officer in 2022.

His background also includes senior roles in management consulting and investment management. First New York’s Board cited his deep industry knowledge and commitment to the credit union movement as key strengths.

The Association congratulates Vik Muktavaram and wishes him continued success as he leads First New York into its next chapter.

Broadview Launches Sixth Annual “Playoffs with a Purpose” Campaign to Benefit Roswell Park Alliance Foundation

Broadview Federal Credit Union is once again turning playoff excitement into community impact with its sixth annual Playoffs with a Purpose campaign. This year’s beneficiary is the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, supporting the work of Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.

How it works:

• Broadview will donate $10,000 for each Buffalo Bills playoff game
• $500 will be added to every game’s donation for every point the Bills win by in the Wild Card round
• With every win, Broadview will double its point differential donation

Since 2020, the campaign has raised thousands for Western New York nonprofits. It’s a fun, high-energy way to support cancer research while cheering on the Bills! Learn more about this initiative by clicking below.

Apply Now for CU4Kids Crew 2026!

Applications are now open for CU4Kids Crew 2026, an exclusive opportunity for emerging credit union leaders to attend Elevate, the annual conference of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

Sponsored by Acumen Financial Advantage, 15 professionals under age 40 will be selected to receive complimentary airfare, hotel, and curated programming.

Crew participants will:

• Attend Elevate alongside national credit union leaders
• Network with peers from across the country
• Learn how CU4Kids drives impact for children’s hospitals
• Grow as ambassadors for kids’ health and the credit union movement

Applications to be a part of the CU4Kids Crew close February 6. Don’t wait, apply today!

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Happy 2026! We’re wishing you all a healthy and happy new year. In our latest blog, we’re announcing registration for EXCEL26 and an upcoming webinar from the Association. Then, see which credit union was recognized for its marketing, plus insights from InfoSight360. Get the latest statewide industry updates in the New York Minute!

Now Open: Register for EXCEL26 Today!

Registration is officially open for EXCEL 26, the New York Credit Union Association’s Annual Meeting & Convention. Save your spot early for our most anticipated event of the year!

This four-day event brings together credit union leaders, volunteers, and industry professionals for learning, collaboration, and connection. Attendees can expect:

• Engaging keynote speakers
• Practical, credit union–focused Learning Labs
• Networking with peers from across New York
• Opportunities to support important causes within the movement

Event Details

Dates: June 11–14, 2026
Location: Saratoga Hilton, Saratoga Springs
Early-bird deadline: March 31

A three-night minimum stay (Thursday–Saturday) is required for the room block, with lodging reservations due by May 15. Vendor and exhibitor registration and lodging details will be released on Tuesday, January 20. Visit the EXCEL26 homepage for full details and to register.

Association Webinar: Recent State Legislation Affecting Credit Unions

The Association is hosting an important webinar to help credit unions navigate recent New York State legislative actions following decisions by Governor Kathy Hochul.

Webinar Details

Date: Wednesday, January 14
Time: 11:00 a.m.

This session will provide a clear, practical overview of four key bills affecting credit unions, including legislation related to health information privacy, artificial intelligence, business practices, and coerced debt. Association experts will explain:

• Compliance and operational impacts
• Implementation timelines and upcoming chapter amendments
• Areas of risk, opportunity, and regulatory uncertainty

Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions and gain guidance on how to prepare for 2026 and beyond. Credit unions are strongly encouraged to attend this timely and informative session.

SeaComm Awarded Gold by the Marketing Association of Credit Unions

Congratulations to SeaComm Federal Credit Union on earning a Gold Award from the Marketing Association of Credit Unions for its member magazine, The Advisor.

Produced by SeaComm’s Marketing and Communications team, The Advisor is mailed twice a year to more than 56,000 members, delivering relevant financial insights and credit union updates. This year’s recognition is especially meaningful, as a record 458 entries from nearly 100 credit unions nationwide were submitted for consideration.

This award is a reflection of the team’s creativity, consistency, and dedication. Congratulations to the SeaComm team for this recognition!

InfoSight360: 2026 Annual Threshold Adjustments

Each year, a number of federal agencies are required by law to adjust regulatory threshold amounts to account for inflation. Most adjustments are based on the annual percentage change in the Consumer Price Index. The adjustments effective January 1, 2026, are below:

Regulation Z Exemption

An extension of credit greater than $73,400 is exempt from Regulation Z unless it is:

• Secured by any real property, or by personal property used by the consumer as his/her principal dwelling, or
• A private education loan.

Regulation M Exemption

A consumer lease with a total contractual obligation in excess of $73,400 is exempt from Regulation M.

Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac Conforming Loan Limits

$832,750
$1,249,125 for high-cost areas

Qualified Mortgage Pricing

First Lien Loans
The APR charged in connection with the transaction does not exceed the value of the APOR index by more than:

• 2.25% for loans greater than or equal to $137,958
• 3.50% for loans greater than or equal to $82,775 but less than $137,958
• 6.50% for loans less than $82,775

Subordinate Lien Loans
The APR charged in connection with the transaction does not exceed the value of the APOR index by more than:

• 3.50% for loans greater than or equal to $82,775
• 6.50% for loans less than $82,775

Qualified Mortgage Points and Fees

Loan Amount	Points and Fees Cap
$137,958	3% of the loan amount
$82,775 to $137,958	$4,139
$27,592 to $82,775	5% of the loan amount
$17,245 to $27,592	$1,380
<$17,245	8% of the loan amount

Higher Priced Mortgage Loan Appraisal Requirement

Generally, in connection with a higher priced mortgage loan, the credit union must obtain a written appraisal of the subject property. However, if one of the following exceptions applies, an alternative method of valuation may be used:

• The higher priced mortgage loan also meets the definition of a qualified mortgage,
• An extension of credit equal to or less than $34,200,
• A transaction secured by a mobile home, boat, or trailer,
• A construction loan,
• A bridge loan with a term of 12 months or less, or
• A reverse mortgage.

High-Cost Mortgage Points and Fees

A loan is considered high cost if the points and fees charged in connection with the transaction exceed:

• 5% of the loan amount for loans of $27,592 or greater
• For loans of less than $27,592, the lesser of –
  • 8% of the loan amount, or
  • $1,380

Home Mortgage Disclosure Act Institutional Coverage Test

A credit union that meets the following four-part test is subject to HMDA:

• Assets in excess of $59 million as of 12/31/2025,
• Home or branch office in a Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA),
• Originated at least one home purchase or refinance transaction in the preceding calendar year, and
• Federally insured or regulated.

Small Creditor Definition

A credit union that meets the following two-part test is considered a small creditor:

• During the preceding calendar year, the credit union and its affiliates together originated 2,000 or fewer covered transactions secured by a first lien, and
  • Excludes loans retained in the credit union’s portfolio
• At the end of the preceding calendar year, the credit union and its affiliates together had total assets of less than $2.785 billion.

Content updates have been made to the following topics on InfoSight360 to reflect the changes:

• Truth in Lending Act,
• Ability to Repay,
• Appraisals,
• Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act, and
• Accounts (Health Savings Accounts).

In addition, the following model policies have been updated in CU Policy Pro:

• 2210.14 – Health Savings Accounts,
• 7302 – Real Estate Appraisals,
• 7350 – Ability to Repay,
• 7370 – HOEPA Rule Requirements, and
• 9220 – Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act.

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In our last edition of the New York Minute for 2025, we’re wishing you a happy holiday season from the Association! Plus, see charitable giving, industry leader recognitions, and more. Get the latest credit union news in our weekly newsletter!

Happy Holidays from The Association!

As 2025 comes to a close, I want to take a moment to sincerely thank you for the continued support, collaboration, and trust you place in the New York Credit Union Association. The holiday season provides a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the connections that strengthen our movement and the communities we serve.

Throughout the year, your commitment to financial well-being, community impact, and cooperative values has remained the driving force behind our collective success. Together, we have advanced advocacy efforts, supported members across the state, and reinforced the principles that make credit unions a trusted and vital part of New York’s financial landscape.
Thank you for being an integral part of this community and for the partnership that allows us to move forward with purpose and confidence. Your engagement and leadership continue to shape a stronger future for credit unions and the members who rely on them.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season filled with peace, reflection, and well-earned relaxation. May the year ahead bring health, happiness, and continued success.

Warm regards,
Bill
William J. Mellin, President & CEO
New York Credit Union Association

Broadview FCU Rises to Record Community Need with $500,000+ in Giving

Broadview Federal Credit Union demonstrated its deep commitment to community support by distributing more than $500,000 through its annual Holiday Sharing and Leadership Giving programs. During the 2025 holiday season, Broadview executives and employees delivered $250,000 worth of gifts and essential items to more than 5,000 individuals and families across New York State, marking the culmination of a Holiday Sharing tradition spanning more than 30 years.

With requests for assistance at an all-time high due to economic pressures, SNAP benefit reductions, and a recent government shutdown, Broadview stepped up with donations of toys, warm clothing, cookware, toiletries, and other necessities for families, seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and children. More than 80 nonprofit organizations participated, identifying individuals in need and providing personalized shopping lists.

In addition, Broadview’s Leadership Giving Program donated $324,000 to 60 nonprofits on behalf of the credit union’s management team. Together, these efforts highlight Broadview’s people-first mission and its role as a reliable partner for communities during times of heightened need.

New York Credit Union Leaders Certified as Development Educators

The National Credit Union Foundation has certified 40 credit union leaders as Credit Union Development Educators after completing its signature Development Education (DE) program, the movement’s only 2025 virtual class. Among this distinguished group are two New York credit union professionals:

• Amanda Powell of Finger Lakes Health Care FCU
• Deiredra Oliver of Visions FCU

The virtual DE program provided an accessible and engaging alternative to the traditional in-person experience, allowing participants to dive deeply into the “why” behind credit unions. Through interactive speaker sessions and collaborative exercises, attendees explored credit union structure, emotional intelligence, advocacy, and the importance of advancing financial well-being.

Join us in congratulating Amanda, Deiredra, and all members of the 2025 DE class!

From TruStage: Fintech Forum Webinar Recording Available

Missed TruStage’s fintech forum on stablecoins? The on-demand recording of “Digital Dollars, Real Impact: Stablecoins and the Future of the Credit Union Ecosystem” is now available to watch. This timely webinar explores one of the most talked-about developments in digital finance and what it could mean for credit unions in the years ahead.

Designed for credit union leaders, compliance professionals, and strategy teams, the session breaks down what stablecoins really are and how they’re beginning to reshape payments, member expectations, and operational considerations. Viewers gain insight into the evolving regulatory landscape, potential use cases, and key questions credit unions should be asking as digital assets continue to gain traction.

Credit unions are encouraged to watch the full recording to better understand the opportunities and implications of stablecoins for the cooperative financial system. Click below to access the recording!

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This week in the New York Minute, we’re covering year-end reminders for our members and celebrating respected industry leaders retiring this year. Plus, learn about credit unions supporting their community this holiday season. Get the latest industry news from across the state in our weekly blog.

From CU in New York: Association’s Year-Long Legislative Battle- Comprehensive Advocacy Efforts Face Final Test

Throughout the 2025 legislative session, the New York Credit Union Association has conducted a comprehensive advocacy campaign to advance legislation supporting credit union members while protecting the industry from statutory overreach. The Association’s multifaceted efforts now face their ultimate test as Governor Hochul decides the fate of 161 bills awaiting her action.

Comprehensive Advocacy Strategy

The Association’s 2025 legislative work encompassed the full range of advocacy activities to serve New York’s credit union community:


• Championed member-friendly legislation to expand credit union services and reduce operational burdens
• Opposed bills that would impose unnecessary statutory requirements on credit unions

• Engaged proactively with bill sponsors to seek amendments and carve-outs protecting credit unions
• Testified at committee hearings to educate lawmakers about credit union operations and member benefits
• Built coalitions with consumer groups, business organizations, and other financial services stakeholders
• Submitted detailed position papers analyzing legislation’s impact on credit union members and operations
• Educated members about pending legislation and mobilized grassroots advocacy efforts

Four Bills at The Top of the Opposition List

While the Association’s advocacy agenda included supporting numerous pro-credit union measures, four bills required particularly intensive opposition efforts due to their potential negative impact on credit union operations:

S6953B – The RAISE Act (Artificial Intelligence Regulation)


The Association worked extensively with Senator Gounardes’ office, committee staff, and stakeholder groups to seek appropriate exemptions for financial institutions. Despite the Association’s detailed advocacy explaining how the bill’s training requirements and compliance obligations could disproportionately burden credit unions, the legislation advanced without adequate protections for member-owned cooperatives. Similar legislation has been vetoed across the country and with the talk of federal legislation voiding state AI legislation, the future of RAISE is uncertain. This legislation is pending the Governor’s signature, and the Association (along with many other business groups) is actively advocating for a veto.

S929 – New York HIPA (Health Information Protection)


The Association’s advocacy team engaged intensively with Senator Krueger’s office and stakeholders to push for explicit carve-outs for financial institutions and insurance carriers. The Association’s analysis demonstrated how the broad language could inadvertently capture credit unions processing health-related information, creating duplicative privacy requirements that conflict with existing federal frameworks. The Association has joined a large coalition requesting this bill be vetoed.

S1353B – Coerced Debt Relief


The Association mounted perhaps its most comprehensive opposition campaign around Senator Cleare’s coerced debt legislation. The Association worked with bill sponsors, committee staff, and stakeholder groups to seek amendments that would protect legitimate collection activities while still addressing genuine economic abuse. Despite extensive engagement, the bill’s expansive definition of “coercion” remained problematic for credit union operations. Hopefully if this is signed into law, subsequent chapter amendments will ease some of the burden.

S8416 – FAIR Business Practices Act


The Association engaged extensively with Senator Comrie’s office and the Attorney General’s staff to seek modifications to the legislation’s vague standards for “unfair” practices. The Association’s advocacy emphasized how credit unions’ cooperative structure and member-focused mission distinguish them from for-profit institutions, warranting different treatment under enforcement provisions.

The Stakeholder Engagement Challenge

The Association’s advocacy work requires careful navigation of complex stakeholder dynamics by balancing supporting consumer protection goals while ensuring credit unions aren’t inadvertently harmed by well-intentioned legislation. This requires extensive engagement with consumer advocacy groups, legislative staff, and other financial services organizations to build understanding of credit union operations and member benefits.

Federal Validation of the Association’s Balanced Approach

NCUA’s recently announced Deregulation Project validates the Association’s balanced advocacy approach. While the federal credit union regulator works to eliminate obsolete and burdensome requirements, the Association has consistently advocated for legislation that supports credit union members while opposing measures that would create unnecessary statutory burdens. This alignment between federal burden reduction efforts and the Association’s state-level advocacy reinforces the Association’s strategic approach.

What the Association’s Comprehensive Advocacy Achieved

The Association’s sustained advocacy efforts throughout 2025 accomplished multiple critical objectives:


• Advanced member interests through support of beneficial legislation
• Protected operational flexibility by opposing or seeking amendments to problematic bills
• Educated lawmakers about credit union operations, member benefits, and cooperative principles
• Built upon relationships with legislators, staff, and stakeholder organizations
• Demonstrated thought leadership on complex financial services policy issues
• Mobilized grassroots engagement from credit union members and leaders
• Confirmed the Association as the authoritative voice on credit union policy in New York

The Final Test

Now, after months the Association’s comprehensive advocacy work supporting good bills and opposing problematic ones, key decisions rest with Governor Hochul.

Lessons in Comprehensive Legislative Advocacy

The Association’s 2025 campaign demonstrates the sophistication required in modern legislative advocacy. The Association successfully managed a complex portfolio of legislative priorities, supporting measures that benefit members while opposing those that would impose unnecessary burdens. This comprehensive approach enhanced the Association’s credibility and effectiveness with lawmakers and stakeholders.

Looking Ahead

The Association’s advocacy work extends beyond individual legislative sessions. Whether specific bills are signed or vetoed, the relationships built, expertise demonstrated, and credibility established during 2025 will benefit future advocacy efforts. For New York’s credit unions, the Association’s advocacy efforts represent a strategic, balanced approach to legislative engagement that advances member interests while protecting operational viability, demonstrating the Association’s commitment to ensuring that policymakers understand both the cooperative difference and the unique value credit unions bring to their communities.

Enjoy this insight? Subscribe to the Association’s CU in New York blog for more expert opinions on the latest news affecting the credit union industry from Jeremy Newman!

Recent Retirements: A Fond Farewell to Credit Union Leaders

This year, the New York credit union community bids a heartfelt farewell to an exceptional group of leaders whose careers have helped shape the strength, stability, and service-driven mission of our movement. These individuals have dedicated decades to serving members, mentoring teams, navigating change, and strengthening communities across the state. Their leadership, advocacy, and commitment to the credit union philosophy of people helping people have left a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come.

As they step into well-earned retirements, we extend our sincere thanks and best wishes to the following leaders for their many contributions:

• Shawn Hayes – TrailNorth FCU
• Wayne Winkler – Mid-Hudson Valley FCU
• Ron Flaherty – TEG FCU
• Sam Scro – Auburn FCU
• Bohdan Kurczak – Self Reliance FCU
• Tom Neumann – First Source FCU
• Jody Vosburg – Allegany First FCU
• Mary Ann Williams – Oneida County FCU

We thank each of these leaders for their service and wish them health, happiness, and fulfillment in their next chapter.

Member Reminder: Update Project Zip Code!

With advocacy efforts active at both the federal and state levels, now is the perfect time for credit unions to ensure their Project Zip Code (PZC) information is accurate and up to date. Project Zip Code is a secure, user-friendly tool that helps quantify the collective impact of credit unions by matching member counts to congressional districts, state legislative districts, and counties.

This data is uploaded to America’s Credit Unions’ Project Zip Code system and combined with information from credit unions nationwide, providing a powerful resource to support advocacy, education, and relationship-building with lawmakers. All information is completely secure, and no individual member data is accessible outside your organization.

Beyond advocacy, PZC offers operational value by allowing credit unions to analyze member distribution geographically, helping inform decisions related to branch locations, ATMs, and shared branching. Keeping your data current ensures your credit union’s voice is accurately represented when it matters most.

To update your information or learn more, visit America’s Credit Unions’ Project Zip Code website and take a few minutes to confirm your data. If you require assistance, please contact the Association’s Member Relations team at member.relations@nycua.org.

First New York FCU’s 2025 Toilet Paper Drive Take Down

First New York Federal Credit Union set a new record in 2025 through its annual Toilet Paper Drive in partnership with Catholic Charities Tri-County Services, collecting an impressive 19,154 rolls of toilet paper to support families and individuals across the Capital Region. The campaign culminated in the highly anticipated Toilet Paper Take Down Event on December 9 at First New York’s corporate headquarters, where towering “trees” of donated rolls were dismantled and packed for delivery.

The donations were transported to Catholic Charities’ five food pantries and two soup kitchens, helping address a critical gap for hygiene items that cannot be purchased using SNAP benefits. Community leaders, staff, volunteers, and media gathered to witness the effort, which continues to grow each year as need increases by 15–20 percent annually.

SeaComm FCU Supports Food Pantries Across Northern New York

SeaComm Federal Credit Union is helping ensure that no one goes hungry this holiday season by donating a total of $9,000 to food pantries throughout Northern New York. The funds will support local organizations working tirelessly to meet increased demand for food assistance during a time when many families are facing rising costs and economic uncertainty.

Among the recipients are trusted community partners such as the Neighborhood Center, JCEO, Urban Mission, and other local food pantries that provide essential services to individuals and families in need. These donations will help stock shelves, expand outreach, and ensure vital resources remain available throughout the winter months.

SeaComm’s contribution reflects the credit union’s long-standing commitment to community well-being and its belief that local support makes a meaningful difference. By investing directly in organizations on the front lines of hunger relief, SeaComm continues to live the credit union mission of people helping people, especially during the season when compassion and generosity matter most.

Act Fast: Your Free Webinar Codes Expire Soon

Friendly reminder: your complimentary webinar codes are set to expire on December 31, and there’s still time to put them to good use. These free codes give members access to an extensive library of on-demand webinars covering timely topics such as compliance, lending, marketing, operations, leadership, and more. Whether you’re looking to stay current on regulatory updates or strengthen professional skills across your team, there’s valuable content available.

Using your codes is simple. Just click below and look under “Access Your Promotional Codes” to redeem them. Webinars can be viewed on your schedule, making it easy to fit professional development into even the busiest year-end calendars.

Don’t let this benefit go unused. Take advantage of the Association’s educational resources before your codes expire and start the new year informed, prepared, and ahead of the curve.

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