This week, our New York Minute is packed with exciting announcements from credit unions across the state! Learn about the many credit unions honored with various professional recognitions. Plus, you’re invited to the Chair’s Testimonial Reception at EXCEL 25. Get the latest updates in this week’s blog!

Mark Your Calendar: Chair’s Testimonial Reception to Honor Eric Hepkins

Join us for a special reception celebrating Eric Hepkins, CEO of Cornerstone Community FCU and current board chair of the New York Credit Union Association. The Chair’s Testimonial Reception will honor Eric’s impactful leadership and service during his two-year term as board chair from 2023-2025. The reception will be held on Saturday, June 14, as a special event at EXCEL 25.

Proceeds from this event will be donated in Mr. Hepkins’ name to further the work of the New York Credit Union Foundation, supporting financial education and the advancement of credit unions across New York.

Don’t miss this chance to honor a dedicated credit union advocate and leader!

Spots are still available to attend and sponsor this high-profile event. Register & explore exclusive sponsorship opportunities to show your support by clicking below.

Five Credit Unions Named ‘Best’ in the Capital Region by the Times Union

The Times Union has released its annual Readers’ Choice list of top financial institutions in the Capital Region—and five credit unions made the cut! Congratulations to:

• Broadview Federal Credit Union
• Sunmark Credit Union
• Hudson Valley Credit Union
• First New York Federal Credit Union
• TCT Federal Credit Union

These institutions were recognized for their excellence in service, innovation, and community impact. Their selection underscores the important role credit unions continue to play in meeting the financial needs of New Yorkers with integrity and care.

See the full list and more about the rankings below.

Suffolk Credit Union Named Best Place to Work for Fourth Consecutive Year

Suffolk Credit Union has been honored once again as the Best Credit Union in the 2024 Long Island Choice Awards for the fourth consecutive year! In addition to this impressive streak, Suffolk was also recognized as Best Mortgage Lender for the second year in a row.

The awards celebrate the most outstanding businesses across the region. Suffolk’s continued recognition reflects the hard work of its entire team and the unwavering trust of its members. With a strong focus on personalized service and community engagement, Suffolk Credit Union continues to live its mission of Empowering Your Possible every day.

Congratulations to the entire Suffolk team on this well-deserved honor!

Teachers Federal Credit Union Recognized by the Business Intelligence Group

Teachers Federal Credit Union has been awarded the Transformation of the Year by the Business Intelligence Group! This national honor recognizes TFCU’s innovative overhaul of its Contact Center, designed to deliver more personalized and efficient support to its members.

By combining advanced technology with a deep commitment to member service, TFCU transformed every touchpoint into an opportunity for stronger, more meaningful engagement. This recognition highlights the credit union’s dedication to evolving with member needs while maintaining the heart of the credit union mission.

Congratulations to Teachers FCU on this forward-thinking achievement!

Ontario Shores FCU Welcomes Members of Lewiston Porter FCU

Ontario Shores Federal Credit Union has officially welcomed members of Lewiston Porter Federal Credit Union, bringing their communities together under one strong and united credit union. The merger took effect on April 30, 2025, with full integration expected by September.

Members of Lewiston Porter FCU are now part of the Ontario Shores FCU family, gaining access to a broader range of services and financial products while continuing to receive the personalized support they’ve come to trust. To read the full announcement, click below.

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This week in the New York Minute, we’re bringing you the latest on credit union giving throughout New York State. Plus, nominations are open for the annual Herb Wegner Awards, and Island FCU is reaching the public with their podcast. Read the New York Minute blog for the latest industry updates!

Nominations Open! 2026 Herb Wegner Memorial Awards

The National Credit Union Foundation is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Herb Wegner Memorial Awards, the credit union movement’s highest national honors. These prestigious awards recognize individuals and organizations that exemplify the vision and innovation of Herb Wegner, former CUNA president and transformational credit union leader.

Award recipients will be celebrated during the 37th Annual Foundation Dinner on March 2, 2026, held in conjunction with America’s Credit Unions’ Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in Washington, D.C. The nomination window is open through June 30, 2025, and winners will be announced in October.

Award submissions are evaluated by a diverse selection committee of leaders across the credit union system, with final approval by the Foundation board. This is an opportunity to spotlight champions who are advancing the credit union mission with lasting impact.

Broadview Awards $140K+ in Grants to Support Nonprofits

Broadview Federal Credit Union has awarded more than $140,000 in Infrastructure and Safety Grants to 18 nonprofits across New York State. This funding will support a wide range of critical projects—everything from security system upgrades and generator installations to structural repairs and facility enhancements.

With over 100 applications submitted, the selected recipients demonstrated urgent need and high impact. Beneficiaries include organizations like Double H Ranch, Living Resources, Gateway Longview, and the Food Bank of Central New York—all of which provide vital services to their communities.

As one of New York’s largest credit unions, Broadview continues to invest in people-first initiatives through philanthropy and volunteerism. This program is a prime example of how credit unions uplift their communities by meeting needs others might miss.

See the full list of nonprofits awarded below!

MCU Foundation Donates $150,000 to City Harvest to Fight Hunger in NYC

The Municipal Credit Union Foundation has donated $150,000 to City Harvest, New York City’s largest food rescue organization, in a significant move to combat food insecurity across all five boroughs. With demand for food assistance at an all-time high, this contribution will help provide meals to thousands of New Yorkers in need.

City Harvest expects to rescue and distribute nearly 83 million pounds of food this year—free of charge—through a network of more than 400 soup kitchens, pantries, and community partners. The donation will also support nutrition education, local food system development, and volunteer engagement.

MCU Foundation President George Chacon noted the growing strain on city food pantries: “No one should go hungry in one of the world’s wealthiest cities. We’re proud to stand with City Harvest in this mission.”

In addition to the donation, MCU employees will volunteer throughout the year to assist with food distribution and community outreach. Together, they’re demonstrating what it means to be a true financial partner and neighbor.

Island FCU Podcast Explores Key Differences Between Credit Unions and Banks

Island Federal Credit Union is helping Long Islanders make informed financial choices through its latest podcast episode of Making Cents of Long Island. In a 15-minute conversation, Chris Murray, VP of Marketing, outlines the core differences between credit unions and banks—and why those differences matter.

The episode explores how credit unions operate as not-for-profit cooperatives, meaning they return earnings to members through better rates, fewer fees, and personalized service. Murray also touches on the modern banking tools available at credit unions like Island FCU, which blend high-tech convenience with the warmth of local service.

Whether you’re comparing financial institutions or just looking to better understand the benefits of banking local, this episode is an accessible, informative resource. Listeners in Suffolk and Nassau Counties—and beyond—will gain a clearer picture of how credit unions put members first.

Tune in today and learn why more Long Islanders are making the switch.

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In this edition of the New York Minute, we’re bringing you the latest updates from the industry. From national events, community support, special recognitions, and more, we have the latest news statewide.

Register Today: America’s Credit Unions’ Congressional Caucus 2025

Credit union leaders: registration is now open for the 2025 Congressional Caucus, taking place this fall in Washington, D.C.! Hosted by America’s Credit Unions, this high-impact advocacy event brings together credit union professionals from across the country for in-depth policy discussions, coordinated meetings with lawmakers, and expert briefings—all just steps from Capitol Hill.

Congressional Caucus is where intention turns into impact. Attendees will engage directly with lawmakers, administration officials, and key policy influencers to advocate for the issues most pressing to the credit union movement. The program includes guided hill hikes, messaging workshops, and closed-door policy sessions, giving participants the tools and confidence to represent their credit union’s priorities effectively.

This event is designed for CEOs, advocacy professionals, board members, and league leaders who are deeply committed to the future of our industry. Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or new to federal engagement, the Caucus is your opportunity to be heard where it matters most.

Make your voice count. Visit the America’s Credit Unions website to register and start planning your trip to D.C. today.

Reliant Credit Union Supports Children in Brockport Central School District

Reliant Credit Union is helping local students step into the school year with confidence. As part of its Feet Forward program, Reliant recently donated 58 pairs of brand-new sneakers to students at Barclay Elementary School in the Brockport Central School District. This marks the first donation of 2025 for the program, which has now provided over 2,500 pairs of sneakers since its launch in 2016.

Feet Forward is a commitment to student wellness and dignity. In partnership with Rochester Running Company owner Jonathan Griffiths, Reliant ensures that each pair is high-quality and well-fitted, giving kids the tools to succeed inside and outside the classroom.

The Association applauds Reliant for its continued dedication to uplifting youth and strengthening communities across the Finger Lakes.

SeaComm FCU Receives Award from GreenPath Financial Wellness

SeaComm Federal Credit Union has received national recognition from GreenPath Financial Wellness, earning the inaugural Partner Excellence Award for Debt Relief Advocacy. This award honors SeaComm’s outstanding commitment to supporting members through financial challenges with compassion and expertise.

Since 2008, SeaComm has partnered with GreenPath to offer free financial counseling, debt management plans, credit report reviews, and educational resources. In the past year alone, over 150 SeaComm members accessed these services for the first time, highlighting the credit union’s efforts to actively connect members with meaningful financial solutions.

SeaComm’s long-standing partnership with GreenPath exemplifies the credit union philosophy of people helping people, offering critical support when members need it most. The New York Credit Union Association congratulates SeaComm on this well-deserved honor and its continued leadership in financial wellness advocacy.

CFPB Will Not Prioritize Enforcement of Small Business Lending Data Collection Rule

By InfoSight360

The small business lending data collection rule, finalized in March 2023, requires covered financial institutions to collect and report data in connection with applications for credit received from a small business. The rule has been tied up in litigation since its issuance and is currently paused by the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals for members of America’s Credit Unions (ACU) and the American Bankers Association.

In early April, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced its plan to reopen the rule to make changes. While this was welcome news for the industry, until that rulemaking is completed, institutions not covered by the court’s injunction (e.g., those credit unions not affiliated with ACU) remain subject to the mandatory compliance dates outlined below:

• July 18, 2025 – a financial institution that originated at least 2,500 covered credit transactions to small businesses in each year of its determination period
• January 16, 2026 – a financial institution that originated between 500 and 2,499 covered credit transactions to small businesses in each year of its determination period
• October 18, 2026 – a financial institution that originated between 100 and 499 covered credit transactions to small businesses in each year of its determination period

Having one set of financial institutions subject to compliance as early as July 18, 2025, while others are protected by the court’s injunction, created a bifurcated enforcement environment that the CFPB deemed unfair. As a result, on April 30, 2025, the agency issued a press release in which it announced that it will not prioritize enforcement or supervision of the small business lending data collection rule with regard to financial institutions that are not covered by the court’s injunction. The Bureau said that it looks forward to resolving the status of the rule and ensuring fair, consistent treatment for all entities impacted by the regulation.

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This week in the New York Minute, we’re calling on our credit union community to make our voices heard at a national level. Then, we’re announcing this year’s scholarship recipients, influential credit union leaders, and more. Get the latest credit union news in the New York Minute!

Tell Congress: Don’t Tax My Credit Union

Credit unions across the country are facing a serious threat. As Congress works on the next federal tax bill, there is growing concern that the long-standing tax-exempt status of credit unions could be diminished or eliminated. This would not only hurt credit unions, it would also directly impact the more than 140 million members nationwide who rely on them for financial services and community support.

We need unified, immediate advocacy from our credit union community.

Take action today by sending a message to your representatives. It only takes a few clicks to urge Congress to preserve the tax-exempt status of credit unions. Let them know: taxing credit unions is taxing everyday Americans.

For those looking to amplify their advocacy, several resources are available, including the Member Activation Program, the Grassroots Action Center, and Project Zip Code. Get involved and engage your peers, volunteers, staff, and membership in this critical fight.

Announcing the 2025 Winners of the Association Scholarship Program!

The Association is proud to announce the winners of its 2025 Scholarship Program. This year, 50 outstanding student members from across the state will receive a combined total of $32,250 in scholarships, thanks to the support of 64 credit unions and four regional chapters.

These exceptional recipients were selected from more than 1,200 applicants and evaluated on academic performance, leadership, community service, extracurricular activities, and writing. Scholarship awards range from $250 to $1,500, helping these students take the next step in their academic journeys.

We’re proud to recognize and support the next generation of leaders in the credit union community.

Visit our website to view the full list of scholarship recipients and learn more about the program.

Long Island Credit Union Leaders Named Influencers in Banking and Finance

Congratulations to the following credit union professionals for being named 2025 Influencers in Banking and Finance by Long Island Business News:

• Michele Dean, Suffolk Credit Union
• Carol Allen, People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union
• Linda Armyn, FourLeaf Federal Credit Union
• Joseph Tedesco, Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union
• Brad Calhoun, Teachers Federal Credit Union
• John Deieso, Jovia Financial Federal Credit Union
• Craig Booth, Island Federal Credit Union

These leaders were recognized for their commitment to innovation, strategic growth, and deep community engagement. Their efforts are not only strengthening their institutions but also uplifting local families, businesses, and nonprofits throughout Long Island.

Their inclusion in this list is a testament to the enduring impact of credit union leadership and the difference it makes in both the financial world and the communities we serve. Click below to view these recognitions.

NYCUA Rochester Chapter Raises Funds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace

The Association’s Rochester Chapter is making a real difference in the lives of local children. Through a recent fundraiser, the chapter raised $1,250 for Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP), a nonprofit dedicated to building and delivering beds to children in need.

Thanks to this generous donation, SHP will be able to build five new beds, helping ensure that no child in the community has to sleep on the floor. The donation supports SHP’s broader mission: “No Kid Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town,” a commitment that goes beyond bed-building to foster service, connection, and opportunity.

We applaud the Rochester Chapter for their dedication to supporting children and families and for exemplifying the credit union spirit of people helping people.

TruStage^TM and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals^® Announce New Sponsorship Agreement

Donation to Fund Nine Events Across the U.S. to Benefit Children’s Health

By: TruStage and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Staff

TruStage^TM, a leader in providing insurance and financial services to credit unions and their members, is proud to announce its new sponsorship agreement with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals^® (CMN Hospitals). As a part of the new agreement, TruStage will commit $392,500 to CMN Hospitals through Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids), the charity of choice for the credit union industry. The dollars will be used to sponsor nine events across the country, aimed at raising funds and awareness for the treatment and care of children in local hospitals.

“We are honored to support the incredible work of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and the credit union industry through Credit Unions for Kids,” said TruStage Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Tammy Schultz. “This contribution is a testament to our dedication to make a positive impact in the communities we serve. By sponsoring these nine events, we hope to help raise vital funds and awareness for children’s health—a critical concern for both TruStage and credit unions.”

TruStage will help raise $7.5 million in 2025 through these nine events. More than 200 credit unions participate in these events and over 125 hospitals will benefit from the funds raised.

John Bratsakis, President and CEO of MD|DC Credit Union Association and Chair of the CU4Kids Advisory Board, adds, “Our industry would not be able to put on events like the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Run and others, without the support of our long-term and trusted partner TruStage. We are very grateful for their long-term commitment and support.”

Credit Unions for Kids is a national collaboration between credit unions and CMN Hospitals that raises funds to support pediatric healthcare services. These donations fund life-saving treatments, research, medical equipment, and support programs for children.

The sponsorship of the nine upcoming events will provide critical financial support to hospitals in various regions of the country, directly benefiting children and families in need.

“We are extremely grateful for TruStage’s generous contribution,” said Kristen Schavemaker, Chief Programs and Foundation Partnerships Officer at CMN Hospitals. “Their sponsorship plays a crucial role in advancing our mission to provide the best possible care for children in need. These events will make a real difference in the lives of millions of children across the nation.”

Over the last 25 years, TruStage has contributed close to $1.9 million to CMN Hospitals.

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In this edition of the New York Minute, we’re bringing you the highlight reel from this year’s State Government Affairs Conference. Read our weekly blog to relive the conference and see how our credit union professionals made the most of their two days in Albany!

Highlights from Day One of State GAC 2025

The State Government Affairs Conference started off on a strong note! Our first day was filled with exciting presentations from experts in New York State legislation and the credit union industry.

Lawmakers spoke to attendees about how they’re prioritizing credit union support behind the scenes. We heard from Assemblywoman Pamela Hunter, Assemblyman Billy Jones, Assemblyman Paul Bologna, Senator George Borrello, Assemblymember Dana Levenberg, and Assemblyman Charles Fall.

Then, Maggie Pope delivered an enlightening presentation highlighting FOCUS NY and the importance of supporting pro-credit union officials. Also, Amy Kramer, the Association’s Chief Advocacy Officer, facilitated a discussion between Rick Ostroff and Diana Ostroff of Ostroff Associates, a leading New York State government relations firm. The conversation provided a future outlook of state politics and expert insights on how to navigate the legislative landscape as credit union advocates.

Thank you to the following credit unions who attended and made our first day a hit!

Lawmaker Reception at The Shelf

We ended our first night of State GAC with a lawmaker reception at The Shelf! Our credit union professionals mixed and mingled with NYS senators and assembly members at the unique space in the Renaissance Hotel. Take a look at the photos from the night.

We Did It! Second Annual FOCUS NY Day of Giving a Success

The Association and FOCUS NY are proud to announce that we crushed our fundraising goal during this year’s Day of Giving! Thanks to all of our generous donors, we were able to raise $32,800, surpassing our one-day target of $30,000 to benefit FOCUS NY.

The second annual Day of Giving aims to support the mission of FOCUS NY, the Association’s political action committee, which supports bipartisan New York legislators who will bolster the credit union mission at a state and federal level.

“I’d like to thank the FOCUS NY Board of Trustees for their extensive efforts put forth to make the second annual Day of Giving such a success,” said William J. Mellin, Association President & CEO. “Thank you to Maggie Pope from Mountain Valley FCU, Ron Belle from AmeriCU Credit Union, Andrew Smith from Sidney FCU, Chris Hay from Dannemora FCU, Inna Sprague from Teachers FCU, Scott Van Zandt from Hudson Valley Credit Union, and Jesse Reib, the young professional designee, from First Heritage FCU.”

Thank you to everyone who helped us accomplish this impressive achievement! With your help, we can continue to make our voices heard. FOCUS NY fundraises year-round, and donations are still encouraged. Learn more and give below!

State GAC Credit Union Attendees Participate in ‘Hill Hikes’

Our final day of the State Government Affairs Conference was a busy one! Our attendees visited the state capitol and spoke to legislators and their offices about the importance of supporting the credit union mission.

Thank you to the following legislators and their offices for taking the time to meet with New York’s credit unions!

Take a look at photos from the day!

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