In this week’s edition of the New York Minute, mark your calendars for upcoming credit union events, including our Compliance Quarterly series! Then, we’re highlighting Long Island credit union leaders who were recently named as influencers, and highlighting organizations that are supporting their community. Get the latest New York credit union updates in our New York Minute blog!

Register Today: Compliance Quarterly Returns!

Join us for the next installment of Compliance Quarterly in 2025, hosted by the Association’s General Counsel, Mitchell Pollack. This free session will focus on Joint Accounts under New York’s banking law, covering rights of survivorship, convenience accounts, operational risks, and a pending bill that could reshape current practices.

Whether you’re in compliance, operations, or leadership, this session offers a valuable opportunity to clarify common issues and engage in live discussion with peers.

Event Info
Thursday, July 10, 2025
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Speaker: Mitchell Pollack, General Counsel

Don’t miss this informative and interactive session designed to support your compliance goals.

Registration Now Open for TruStage’s Discovery 2025

Registration is now live for Discovery 2025, TruStage’s premier virtual event tailored for credit union professionals ready to innovate and lead. This free, one-day conference will feature top thinkers, actionable strategies, and cutting-edge tools to elevate your credit union’s performance.

Keynote Speakers Include:
Zack Kass on AI and Innovation
Steven Rick will provide an Economic Outlook
Seth Mattison on the Human Advantage in the Age of AI

Attendees will enjoy featured sessions on lending transformation, fraud prevention, noninterest income, and product innovation, as well as interactive networking opportunities with peers and industry leaders. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this great event! Register today.

Reliant CU Supports Sodus Central School District through Feet Forward Program

Reliant Credit Union has once again made a positive impact in its local community through its Feet Forward program. In collaboration with the Rochester Running Company, Reliant donated 72 pairs of high-quality sneakers to elementary students in the Sodus Central School District.

Since launching Feet Forward in 2016, Reliant has donated nearly 2,600 pairs of sneakers—an investment of over $78,000 in local children’s health, comfort, and confidence.

Thank you to Reliant for continuing to make a great impact in your community!

Long Island Credit Union Leaders Named “Most Dynamic Women Leaders”

Long Island Business News has named two credit union leaders among its 2025 Most Dynamic Women Leaders—a recognition of visionary leadership and transformative impact across industries.

Linda Armyn, President/CEO of FourLeaf Federal Credit Union
A driving force behind FourLeaf’s rebranding and strategic expansion, Armyn has overseen tremendous growth, community investment, and brand visibility, culminating in major initiatives like the annual FourLeaf Air Show.

Michele Dean, President/CEO of Suffolk Credit Union
Under Dean’s leadership, Suffolk has achieved record-breaking growth in assets and membership, earning multiple member-voted awards and industry accolades. Her leadership is recognized both inside and outside the financial sector.

Congratulations to both leaders for helping shape a stronger and more inclusive credit union community!

Oswego County FCU Donates to Erin’s Angels

Oswego County FCU’s Phoenix Branch has selected Erin’s Angels as its latest CU Cares recipient, awarding the nonprofit a $2,500 donation to support their mission of fighting childhood hunger.

Erin’s Angels works to ensure students in the Phoenix Central School District have access to food outside of school hours. Through compassion and collaboration, the organization helps remove barriers to education and well-being for local children.

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This week in the New York Minute, we have exciting recognitions for credit unions across the state! Then, we’re highlighting fall events hosted by the Association, successful charitable events, and more. Get all the latest credit union news in our weekly blog.

Explore The Association’s Fall Event Lineup

As we head into the second half of 2025, now’s the perfect time to make your plans for the fall conference season. Whether you’re focused on compliance, leadership, or marketing strategy, we have a lineup of specialized events designed to inform, inspire, and connect New York credit union professionals.

Compliance & Legal Conference
Date: September 19
Location: Turning Stone Resort Casino, Verona, NY
Dive deep into the regulatory landscape with sessions tailored for compliance officers, attorneys, and HR professionals.
Hotel Deadline: August 26
Registration Deadline: September 5

CEO Roundtable
Dates: September 29–30
Location: Turning Stone Resort Casino, Verona, NY
This invite-only gathering offers facilitated dialogue and peer exchange among New York’s credit union CEOs.
Hotel Deadline: September 8
Registration Deadline: September 15

Volunteer & Executive Leadership Conference
Dates: October 17–18
Location: Turning Stone Resort Casino, Verona, NY
Join board members, supervisory committee members, and executives for two days of powerful presentations and peer learning.
Hotel Deadline: September 23
Registration Deadline: October 3

CUTrends: The NY Marketing & Sales Conference
Dates: November 5–6
Location: Saratoga Casino Hotel, Saratoga Springs, NY
Stay ahead of the curve with strategies and insights tailored for credit union marketing and sales professionals.
Hotel Deadline: October 6
Registration Deadline: October 17

Secure your spot early and be part of the conversations shaping the future of New York’s credit union movement!

New York Credit Unions Named America’s Best-In-State Credit Unions by Forbes

Join us in congratulating ESL FCU, Northern Credit Union, Hudson Valley Credit Union, Reliant Credit Union, Mid-Hudson Valley FCU, Teachers Federal Credit Union, and Jovia Financial FCU for being recognized as America’s Best-In-State Credit Unions by Forbes! This prestigious honor reflects these credit unions’ commitment to delivering smart financial guidance, personalized service, and continuous innovation on behalf of their members.

This year’s rankings were based on survey data from over 26,000 U.S. residents, assessing factors such as trust, transparency, digital tools, customer service, and financial advice. Public sentiment and online reviews were also factored into the results.

These credit union inclusions highlight not only their member-first approach but also their ability to evolve with the financial needs of individuals and communities. To see the full list from Forbes, click below!

New York Credit Unions Named ‘Great Place to Work’ by Fortune

Congratulations to FourLeaf FCU, ESL FCU, and United Nations FCU for being named to Fortune’s 2025 Best Workplaces in New York list!

These credit unions earned this distinction for cultivating inclusive, engaging, and employee-centered workplaces where team members feel empowered, supported, and connected to a shared mission.

• FourLeaf FCU: Celebrated for cultivating employee loyalty and strong community values.
• ESL FCU: Praised for internal growth opportunities and a culture centered on community impact.
• United Nations FCU: Noted for fostering collaboration and mutual respect across teams.

These accolades spotlight how these institutions are not only serving their members with excellence, but also leading with community at the forefront. Congratulations to these credit unions! To see the entire list, click below.

People’s Alliance FCU Hosts Clothing Drive in Support of Local Nonprofit

We’re highlighting People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union for recently hosting a successful clothing drive to benefit the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Long Island. With their hard work, this event collected over 1,500 pounds of clothing in a single day!

Thanks to the generosity of PAFCU employees, members, and community partners, this effort made a meaningful impact on individuals and families in need. The event even received a surprise visit from Mrs. Met, who stopped by to lend her support to the cause.

Congratulations to PAFCU for making community outreach fun, engaging, and impactful!

Alloya Corporate FCU Announces Location for 2025 Leadership Symposium

Alloya Corporate Federal Credit Union is heading to Boston! The 11th Annual Credit Union Leadership Symposium will be held September 3–5 at the Westin Copley Place, marking a new destination for this premier industry event.

With a robust lineup of thought leaders and innovators, attendees can expect fresh perspectives on leadership, strategy, and the economic outlook. Alloya will also welcome Mike Eruzione, captain of the 1980 Olympic hockey team, for a keynote on resilience and teamwork. Plus, experience even more fun events that will give guests the full Boston experience! The Symposium also includes Alloya’s Annual Meeting. No separate registration is required.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, grow, and lead with fellow credit union professionals! For full details and to register, click below.

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This edition of the New York Minute is all about recapping the fun we had this past weekend at EXCEL 25! From golfing to trivia to events that raised thousands for charity, we’re proud to host New York’s premier credit union event, and grateful to our attendees!

EXCEL 25 wrapped up this weekend, and we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us at the Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing. From credit union professionals and volunteers to speakers, sponsors, and exhibitors. Your energy, insights, and enthusiasm made this year’s event a true success.

Special thanks to our Title Sponsor, TruStage, for their continued partnership, and to our dynamic keynote speakers, Phil Gwoke, Phil Hansen, Jay Baer, and René Carayol, who inspired us with their powerful perspectives. Highlights included the Welcome Reception sponsored by Alloya Corporate FCU, the Young Professionals Commission’s Trivia Night, the always-popular Wine Pull, and a Luau-themed closing party to remember.

We appreciate your participation and look forward to seeing you again for EXCEL 26 in Saratoga Springs, June 11-14!

TruStage Golf Tournament & Silent Auction Raise $39,000 for the New York Credit Union Foundation

This year’s EXCEL 25 attendees once again showed their generosity and commitment to the credit union movement. The TruStage Golf Tournament at the Sagamore Golf Course raised an impressive $25,000 for the New York Credit Union Foundation, while the highly anticipated Silent Auction added another $14,000, bringing the total to $39,000 in support of financial education, member service enhancements, and professional development.

Thank you to all who donated, participated, and bid. Your contributions help drive the Foundation’s mission forward and ensure that New York’s credit unions continue to positively impact their communities.

EXCEL 25 Wine Pull Raises $17,000 for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals

Cheers to another successful year of giving back through the EXCEL 25 Wine Pull! Thanks to your enthusiastic participation, we raised $17,000 in support of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. For just a $20 donation, guests pulled a mystery bottle of wine and made a meaningful impact on pediatric care across New York.

Every dollar raised benefits local CMNH member hospitals, supporting critical care, innovative research, and family assistance for children in need. We’re grateful for your support of this fun and impactful tradition. This event would not have been possible without our sponsors, Origence and the Association’s Young Professional Commission.

Photo Gallery from EXCEL 25

From inspiring keynotes and lively receptions to meaningful fundraisers and unforgettable parties, EXCEL 25 was filled with energy, connection, and celebration. Visit the gallery below to browse through photos from the weekend and relive some of your favorite moments.

Whether you were in the crowd or cheering from afar, we invite you to experience the spirit of EXCEL 25 all over again. A special thank you to our photographers, Andrew Elder and Molly Trembley of Best Frame Forward, and to our videographer, James Graham of Vibrant Brands.

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This week in the New York Minute, there’s a lot to celebrate! Between the start of this year’s convention, leader recognitions, and one credit union’s successful charity golf tournament, there’s positive news all around. Get the latest updates from the New York credit union industry in our weekly blog!

EXCEL 25 Kicks Off TODAY!

EXCEL 25 officially kicks off today at the Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing! Over the next four days, credit union professionals and volunteers from across New York will gather for an unforgettable event packed with networking, education, and celebration. Today’s highlights include the TruStage Golf Tournament to benefit the New York Credit Union Foundation, the EXPO/Welcome Reception sponsored by Alloya Corporate FCU, a wine pull to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, and the lively EXCEL 25 Kickoff Party.

Thank you to our Title Sponsor, TruStage, for their continued support in making this event possible.

Stay connected and up to date throughout the event by downloading the NYCUA NOW app, available in the Apple App Store and Google Play. The app includes session schedules, speaker bios, event maps, and real-time updates to help you make the most of your time at EXCEL 25.

Whether you’re here for the learning labs, keynote speakers, or the luau on Saturday night, we’re thrilled to welcome you. Let’s make this year’s Annual Meeting & Convention one to remember!

Teachers FCU Raises More Than $924,000 For Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals^®

Teachers Federal Credit Union has once again demonstrated its deep commitment to community impact, raising more than $924,000 for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals^® through its third annual golf tournament and organization-wide fundraising efforts. The event, held June 4 at the Westhampton Country Club, brought together over 150 golfers, sponsors, and supporters to help improve children’s health nationwide.

This year’s fundraising benefits children’s hospitals across both New York and Florida, including Cohen Children’s Medical Center, Golisano Children’s Hospital, and Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. The credit union’s charitable focus extends beyond this initiative. In 2024 alone, Teachers raised over $1.1 million for nonprofits and contributed 3,000+ employee volunteer hours.

George Chacon of Municipal Credit Union Named a Nonprofit Trailblazer

Congratulations to George Chacon, Chief Strategy Officer of Municipal CU and President of the MCU Foundation, on being named a 2025 Nonprofit Trailblazer by City & State NY! This honor celebrates transformative leaders in New York’s nonprofit sector—those whose work is making a measurable difference across communities.

Under Chacon’s leadership, the MCU Foundation has directed resources to meaningful causes, including a $100,000 donation to the Ronald McDonald House of the Greater Hudson Valley and emergency aid for Yonkers residents affected by a gas outage. His efforts have centered around the Foundation’s core priorities: basic necessities, education, and homeownership.

With more than two decades of experience in banking and strategic leadership, Chacon is driving innovation and measurable outcomes through the Foundation’s mission: Helping to Build Generational Wealth and Eliminate Poverty, One New Yorker at a Time.

This recognition underscores both George’s commitment and the credit union’s broader role in advancing community well-being. We applaud George for his leadership and continued impact on New Yorkers. For the full list, see below.

CUCollaborate Offering Free Individual FOM & Chartering Workshop

Is your credit union considering a field of membership (FOM) expansion or exploring chartering strategies for sustainable growth? As a trusted business partner of the Association, CUCollaborate is now offering a limited number of free, personalized workshops designed to help leaders evaluate their current FOM approach and identify actionable steps for market expansion.

These tailored sessions include a deep dive consultation with an expert who will assess your credit union’s charter type, membership goals, and operational challenges. Following the session, you’ll receive a customized summary with initial recommendations, compliance insights, and helpful checklists to support your next steps.

Spots are limited and filling quickly. Secure your free one-on-one workshop today by using the scheduling link provided. If you don’t see a time that works, you can reach out to their team directly to coordinate availability.

This is a valuable opportunity to align your strategic goals with expert advice and practical tools that can support long-term member growth and community impact.

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In this edition of the New York Minute, we’re congratulating leaders recently highlighted for their work and one credit union recognized as a best company to work for. Then, we’re highlighting the 25th anniversary of a charity golf tournament and field-of-membership expansion for one credit union. Get the latest credit union news from across the state in our weekly blog!

AmeriCU Credit Union Named One of New York’s Top 10 Employers

For the ninth consecutive year, AmeriCU Credit Union has been recognized as one of the Best Companies to Work for in New York by the Best Companies Group. This year, AmeriCU ranked eighth in the large employer category, an honor shared among organizations with 250 or more U.S.-based employees. The award reflects AmeriCU’s strong workplace culture, driven by inclusive practices, professional development, and employee engagement.

“This recognition reflects the incredible culture we’ve built together,” said AmeriCU President and CEO Ron Belle. With an evaluation based heavily on employee satisfaction, AmeriCU continues to set a high bar in supporting staff and fostering growth.

Join us in congratulating AmeriCU on this honor!

Two Long Island Credit Union Leaders Named to 2025 Executive Circle

Long Island Business News has announced the recipients of the 2025 Executive Circle Award, with two credit union leaders earning this distinguished recognition. Carol Allen, President/CEO of People’s Alliance FCU, and Suresh Renganathan, Chief Technology Officer of Teachers FCU, were both honored for exemplary leadership, vision, and service to their organizations and communities.

The Executive Circle Awards celebrate senior-level professionals who embody integrity, excellence, and innovation across Long Island’s business landscape. Congratulations to both honorees for representing New York’s credit union movement with distinction.

Sunmark Credit Union Hosts 25th Annual Golf Tournament

Sunmark Credit Union recently hosted its 25th annual Charity Golf Classic at Normanside Country Club in Delmar, raising more than $70,000 to benefit the Sunmark Charitable Community Foundation. The event drew over 100 golfers and 50 sponsors, all coming together to support financial education, community enrichment, and local nonprofit initiatives.

Proceeds from this event go directly to community programs with zero administrative costs through the Sunmark Foundation. We commend Sunmark for its continuous work giving back to the community and embodying the credit union mission of “people helping people.”

Tonawanda Valley FCU Expands Membership to 14 Counties

Tonawanda Valley FCU has officially expanded its field of membership to include 14 rural counties across Western and Central New York. Approved by the NCUA in April 2024, the expansion allows TVFCU to serve nearly 900,000 new potential members across counties such as Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, and Ontario.

CEO Kristine Duran shared, “We welcome the opportunity to build new relationships and deliver customized banking solutions to more Western New Yorkers.” The field of membership application was supported by the New York Credit Union Association.

This growth marks a major milestone in TVFCU’s ongoing mission to expand financial access and foster community partnerships across upstate New York.

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