This week in the New York Minute, we’re reminding you to join us in celebrating FOCUS NY’s Day of Giving this Monday! Then, join us in congratulating a young professional for a recent recognition and get the latest on the impact credit unions are making in their communities. Get all the latest industry news in our weekly blog!

Get Ready: Day of Giving is This Monday, April 28!

This Monday marks the second annual FOCUS NY Day of Giving, and your support can make a big difference. This campaign is a rallying point for New York’s credit union community to come together and invest in our political future. Funds raised today will help FOCUS NY—the state’s credit union political action committee—support candidates who understand and champion the credit union mission.

Every dollar raised contributes to a bipartisan effort to elect state leaders who will protect and advance our industry’s interests. With a goal of raising $30,000, we’re calling on all credit union advocates to donate and spread the word.

Your contribution is your voice! Celebrate with and donate this Monday! Learn more below.

Dominic Vero of Cornerstone Community FCU Named to 30 Under 30

The Association congratulates Dominic Vero, AVP and Director of Strategy and Delivery at Cornerstone Community FCU, on being named to Buffalo Business First’s 30 Under 30 list!

Dominic joins a distinguished group of young professionals who excel in both their careers and communities. A Buffalo native and SUNY Buffalo State alum, Dominic is deeply involved in local and statewide initiatives—from serving on the Association’s YP Commission to his roles with the Old First Ward Community Center and Junior Achievement of WNY.

His goal before turning 40? To bring as many people into the credit union movement as possible and help them experience the credit union difference.

Well done, Dominic, and thank you for your leadership and dedication! See the full list below.

ESL FCU Joins Neighbors In Action in Awarding Local Grants

ESL Federal Credit Union is making a difference in its community! In collaboration with the City of Rochester and the Rochester Area Community Foundation, they have awarded over $230,000 in Neighbors In Action (NIA) grants to 47 resident-led projects throughout Rochester.

The NIA initiative empowers communities by funding grassroots projects like public art installations, youth programs, community gardens, and neighborhood cleanups. By putting resources directly into residents’ hands, ESL and its partners are investing in the people and projects that make neighborhoods vibrant, inclusive, and resilient.

We applaud ESL FCU for their continuous work in their community and their shining example of the credit union mission of People Helping People! See the full list of organizations benefiting from this program below.

Visions FCU Marks Four Years of Community Impact Through Arena Partnership

Visions Federal Credit Union is proudly marking its fifth year as the naming sponsor of the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena in Binghamton—an enduring partnership that has revitalized the venue and enriched the community.

Since the sponsorship began in 2021, the arena has bounced back from pandemic-era challenges, hosting major acts, professional hockey games, and community events like the Visions Summer Concert Series and Veterans Expo. Average hockey game attendance has grown to 4,100 per night, and the Naming Rights Fund has helped bring big-name entertainment to Broome County.

This partnership, in collaboration with Mirabito Energy Products, has expanded community access to cultural events while honoring veterans and supporting local artists. The sponsorship reflects Visions’ mission to strengthen the communities it serves and provide meaningful experiences for all.

---

Stay ahead of the curve by subscribing to receive credit union news and updates directly to your inbox.

In our latest New York Minute, we’re announcing our latest partnership with Inclusiv to expand green lending. Then, we’re filling you in with honors for credit unions and individuals across the state. Plus, claim your spot as an EXCEL 25 sponsor. Get this week’s New York credit union news in our blog!

Association Announces Green Lending Initiative with Inclusiv

The Association is proud to announce a new partnership with Inclusiv to advance green lending across the state. This initiative focuses on helping credit unions develop clean energy loan products that reduce the financial burden of high energy costs, especially for low- and moderate-income members. Clean energy upgrades—such as solar panels, heat pumps, and electric vehicles—can significantly lower utility bills, yet remain inaccessible for many. With energy costs up 20% since the pandemic and some households spending over 15% of their income on utilities, this partnership aims to create new opportunities for savings and sustainability.

Clean energy lending not only aligns with the credit union mission of financial empowerment—it also opens up new business avenues. As consumer demand for solar and EV options rises, credit unions can offer a range of loan structures to meet member needs while diversifying their portfolios. To support this effort, Inclusiv offers green lending training and resources to help credit unions launch or expand their programs. See additional details in the link below.

Act Now: Become an EXCEL 25 Sponsor

EXCEL 25, the Association’s Annual Meeting & Convention, is fast approaching—scheduled for June 12–15 at the scenic Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing, NY! As the premier gathering for New York’s credit union leaders, EXCEL 25 offers unmatched visibility for organizations interested in connecting with influential decision-makers across the movement.

A variety of sponsorship opportunities are now available, ranging from the always-popular TruStage Golf Tournament to fun-filled events like Bingo, Trivia Night hosted by the YPC, and the Chair’s Testimonial. Other options include supporting the Wine Pull benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and contributing to the Silent Auction.

Whether you’re seeking brand exposure, networking opportunities, or ways to support credit union causes, there’s a sponsorship package to fit your goals. Don’t miss this chance to take part in one of the most anticipated events of the year.

Visit the EXCEL 25 page to explore all sponsorship options and secure your participation today.

Reliant Credit Union Named 2025 Top Workplace

We’re celebrating Reliant Credit Union, which has once again been named a Top Workplace by the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle—marking its eighth consecutive year on the list! The recognition is based solely on employee feedback collected via a third-party survey by Energage, which evaluates factors such as alignment, culture, and connection.

This year, Reliant was also honored with a specialty award for employee benefits, earning the highest score among participants in the category.

With more than $692 million in assets and a community footprint that spans three counties, Reliant continues to be a standout workplace and a trusted financial partner for its 47,000+ members.

Toni-Ann Sforza Named to the 2025 Manhattan Power List

The Association congratulates Toni-Ann Sforza, Chief Operating Officer at Municipal Credit Union (MCU), for being named to the 2025 Manhattan Power List by Schneps Media! This prestigious recognition celebrates individuals who are making meaningful, lasting impacts in New York City through leadership, advocacy, and innovation.

Toni-Ann’s inclusion on the Power List highlights her exceptional contributions to community empowerment and financial access. As MCU shared in a recent announcement, “Her leadership—and her heart—continue to drive change across Manhattan, and her MCU family is proud to cheer her on.”

The Manhattan Power List honored influential figures from business, media, and civic life at a celebration held on April 9 at Bryant Park Grill. This year’s event also marked the 20th anniversary of the Power List and recognized returning ICONs for their continued service to the city.

Join us in celebrating Toni-Ann for this well-deserved recognition and for representing the credit union mission so powerfully. See the full list below.

Taylor Craig Named to Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Forty Under 40 List

Join us in congratulating Taylor Craig of Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union (MHVFCU) for being named one of the 2025 Top Forty Under 40 by the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce! This annual award recognizes rising leaders who have demonstrated excellence in both their professions and their communities.

Taylor was selected by a panel of past honorees, who independently evaluated nominees based on professional accomplishments and community involvement. Her recognition reflects a deep commitment to the Hudson Valley and the members MHVFCU serves.

Congratulations, Taylor, on this well-earned recognition! See the full list below.

---

Stay ahead of the curve by subscribing to receive credit union news and updates directly to your inbox.

This week in the New York Minute, stay informed about the upcoming Spring CEO Roundtable and cybersecurity regulation deadlines. Then, read about notable community involvement from two credit unions, and hear from the Attorney General about the latest tax scams. Stay in the know on New York credit union news with our weekly blog!

Join Us for the Spring CEO Roundtable!

Calling all credit union leaders: registration is now open for the 2025 Spring CEO Roundtable! Mark your calendars for Thursday, May 15, and join your peers at the Turning Stone Resort Casino for a day of impactful conversation and forward-thinking strategy.

This exclusive gathering is designed for CEOs and executives from credit unions with up to $100 million in assets. Together, we’ll explore the future of our movement, share insights, and collaborate on ways to strengthen and grow New York State’s credit union community.

With a full agenda of facilitated discussions, the Roundtable offers an excellent opportunity to connect, reflect, and lead with purpose. Whether you’re looking to exchange ideas or discover innovative approaches to the challenges ahead, this is the event for you.

The event registration deadline is May 2 and the deadline to reserve a hotel room is April 21. Visit the event page now to secure your spot, book accommodations, and learn more about what’s in store. Let’s shape the future—together.

Updated DFS Part 500 Cybersecurity Regulation Deadlines

In the July 31, 2024 New York Minute, we discussed updates to the Department of Financial Services (“DFS”) Part 500 Cybersecurity Regulation (“Part 500”) including changes that were set to take effect in November 2024. This article reviews additional changes that are set to take effect May 1, 2025.

Before discussing the changes, remember that Certifications of Material Compliance or Acknowledgements of Noncompliance are due by April 15 of each year.

As a reminder, Part 500 has different requirements based on entity type. Credit Unions may be Covered Entities, Class A Companies, or Small Businesses and may be fully or partially exempt from Part 500. See the implementation timelines for each business type at the DFS Cybersecurity Resource Center: https://www.dfs.ny.gov/industry_guidance/cybersecurity

All Covered Non-Exempt Entities

Access Privileges and Management  

• Implement enhanced requirements regarding limiting user access privileges, including privileged account access.  
• Review access privileges and remove or disable accounts and access that are no longer necessary.  
• Disable or securely configure all protocols that permit remote control of devices.  
• Promptly terminate access following personnel departures.  
• Implement a reasonable written password policy to the extent passwords are used.  

All Covered Non-Exempt Entities Except Small Businesses

Vulnerability Management

• Conduct automated scans of information systems, and a manual review of systems not covered by such scans to discover, analyze, and report vulnerabilities at a frequency determined by a risk assessment and promptly after any material system changes.
• Implement controls to protect against malicious code.

Class A Non-Exempt Companies

Monitoring and Training

• Implement: an endpoint detection and response solution to monitor anomalous activity; and a centralized logging and security event alert solution.
• CISOs may approve in writing reasonably equivalent or more secure compensating controls.

*Covered Entities—any person operating under or required to operate under a license, registration, charter, certificate, permit, accreditation or similar authorization under the Banking Law, the Insurance Law or the Financial Services Law, regardless of whether the covered entity is also regulated by other government agencies.

** Class A Company—a Covered Entity including affiliates with at least $20,000,000 in gross annual revenue in each of the last two fiscal years from all business operations in New York and:

• over 2,000 total employees; or
• over $1,000,000,000 in total gross annual revenue in each of the last two fiscal years

***Small Business—a Covered Entity including affiliates with:

• fewer than 20 employees and independent contractors;
• less than $7,500,000 in gross annual New York revenue in each of the last three fiscal years; or
• less than $15,000,000 in year-end total assets, calculated in accordance with GAAP

The Summit FCU Raises $3,000 for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester

Cheers to The Summit FCU for turning fun into philanthropy at this year’s Rochester Wine & Chocolate Festival! Their team recently presented a generous $3,000 donation to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester raised through an interactive spin-the-wheel game at their festival booth.

This donation supports a vital cause: providing a “home-away-from-home” for families with children undergoing critical medical treatment. The Ronald McDonald House offers more than just lodging—it delivers meals, transportation, and a comforting community during some of life’s most challenging moments.

The Summit FCU’s creative and engaging approach to fundraising shows how credit unions can make a meaningful impact beyond financial services. Well done to the entire Summit team for continuing to live the credit union mission of people helping people.

Eric Hepkins Featured on WNY Living to Discuss the Credit Union Difference

Eric Hepkins, Chairman of the Association’s Board of Directors and CEO of Cornerstone Community FCU, recently appeared on WNY Living to share what makes credit unions stand out from traditional banks. During the interview with Kevin Sylvester, Hepkins emphasized how credit unions are rooted in community and trust.

“Credit Unions are the Farmer’s Market of banking—we’re healthy, local, and served by people we can trust,” he explained. Hepkins also spoke about Cornerstone Community’s 68-year legacy serving Western New York and how that history reflects the broader values of the credit union movement.

His appearance is part of a continued effort to educate the public on the credit union difference: member-owned institutions committed to transparency, community development, and personalized service. Watch the clip from Eric’s appearance below!

Attorney General Warns New Yorkers Against Scams Ahead of Tax Day

As Tax Day approaches on April 15, New York Attorney General Letitia James is urging residents to stay alert for common tax scams and to take advantage of Direct File, a free tax filing service available to millions of New Yorkers.

This easy-to-use option allows eligible individuals—those earning up to $200,000 ($250,000 for joint filers)—to file their federal and state taxes online for free, potentially saving hundreds in preparation fees. Attorney General James stresses that no one should be tricked into paying for services or giving away personal information to fraudsters during this time of year.

Scams to watch for include: callers demanding tax payments via gift cards, promises of free prep services that later come with surprise charges, and messages claiming you must repay a tax refund. James encourages taxpayers to always verify the identity of their preparers and to report suspicious activity.

New Yorkers interested in checking their eligibility should visit both the New York State Tax Department and IRS websites. For more info or to report a scam, click below or call 800-771-7755.

---

Stay ahead of the curve by subscribing to receive credit union news and updates directly to your inbox.

In this week’s New York Minute, we’re bringing you the latest credit union updates from across the state. Mark your calendars for FOCUS New York’s Day of Giving and Credit Union Youth Month, and see which credit union leaders were recently recognized by their community. All this and more in this week’s blog!

FOCUS NY Day of Giving Announcement from Maggie Pope

We’re excited to announce the second annual FOCUS NY Day of Giving, taking place on Monday, April 28! This special day coincides with the opening of the State Governmental Affairs Conference, highlighting our collective commitment to supporting pro-credit union candidates across New York State. Your participation fuels advocacy that protects and advances the credit union movement at the state level.

How to Prepare:
Mark Your Calendar: April 28, 2025
Donate: Every contribution—big or small—makes a difference!
Spread the Word: Encourage your colleagues to match your gift and grow the impact.

Why It Matters: Each donation made during Day of Giving will directly strengthen FOCUS NY’s ability to support candidates who understand the values that make credit unions vital to our communities. It’s more than a fundraiser—it’s a movement to invest in the future of financial well-being for New Yorkers.

Let’s come together to show the strength of our shared mission. On April 28, be ready to act.

Maggie Pope
Chairperson, FOCUS NY PAC Board of Trustees
Vice Chairperson, New York Credit Union Association
CEO, Mountain Valley FCU

Celebrate Credit Union Youth Month This April

April is officially Credit Union Youth Month—a time for credit unions to spotlight young members and promote the importance of early financial literacy. This year’s theme, “A Sea of Savings,” encourages children to dive into the world of smart money habits and future-focused saving.

Throughout the month, credit unions nationwide are creating engaging experiences that help kids understand the value of saving, budgeting, and setting financial goals. It’s the perfect time to build lifelong relationships with your youngest members while supporting their long-term success.

To help you celebrate, the Maine Credit Union League has released a fantastic collection of resources—including social media graphics, sample messaging, printable coloring pages, and a fun word search. These materials can be customized to reflect your credit union’s brand and shared throughout April to boost engagement. We celebrate and thank the Maine Credit Union League for making these materials available to all credit unions.

Let’s make waves in financial education and show that learning about money can be fun, interactive, and inspiring! Be sure to use the hashtag #CUYouthMonth to amplify your efforts and connect with others doing the same.

MCU Foundation Supports the Ronald McDonald House of the Greater Hudson Valley

We’re recognizing the MCU Foundation, the charitable arm of Municipal Credit Union, for their impactful donation of $100,000 to the Ronald McDonald House of the Greater Hudson Valley (RMHGHV). This support will provide critical support to families seeking care at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, many of whom travel from the New York City area during times of medical crisis.

The donation ensures that families can remain close to their children by receiving essential lodging, meals, and support services. It’s a vital reminder of the role credit unions play in supporting community well-being beyond financial services.

Kudos to the MCU Foundation for living out the credit union difference in action!

Eric Hepkins Named to Buffalo Business First’s Power 250 List

We congratulate Eric Hepkins, CEO of Cornerstone Community FCU and current Chairman of the Association’s Board of Directors, on being named to Buffalo Business First’s 2025 Power 250 List! This annual list highlights the most influential people shaping Buffalo and Western New York. Selected for his leadership, community involvement, and industry impact, Eric’s inclusion is a testament to his dedication both inside and outside the boardroom.

Known for his strategic vision and people-first leadership style, Eric has played a pivotal role in advancing the credit union movement in New York. Whether guiding organizational growth at Cornerstone or championing advocacy initiatives with the Association, he consistently leads with integrity, purpose, and a passion for community development.

As the credit union industry continues to evolve, leaders like Eric remind us of the strength found in combining business acumen with heart. Please join us in celebrating Eric for this recognition! View the full list below.

America’s Credit Unions, Trustage Reinforce 90 Year Commitment To Advancing Credit Unions

America’s Credit Unions and TruStage have officially reinforced their storied 90+ years of commitment to advancing the well-being of credit unions and their members. The two organizations have recommitted to their mutual cooperation agreement.

“Ensuring the credit union industry remains a thriving, vibrant part of local communities is a priority for America’s Credit Unions. More than 140 million Americans choose credit unions as their trusted financial partner and our advocacy efforts are committed to protecting those relationships,” said America’s Credit Unions President/CEO Jim Nussle. “I could not ask for a better partner in TruStage, with a similar mission promoting the strength of the credit union ecosystem. 90 years is a long time to have a partnership, and our organizations have done immense work for the betterment of a mission we care about.”

“At TruStage we believe brighter financial futures should be accessible to everyone. Our organization was founded by the credit union system to protect credit unions and their members. We remain steadfast in that mission,” said TruStage President/CEO Terrance Williams. “We are proud to partner with America’s Credit Unions, working together to strengthen credit unions, helping them drive business results, all while educating people about the many benefits of credit unions and credit union membership.”

The new agreement recognizes TruStage as the America’s Credit Unions’ System Partner for its support and represents our shared commitment to the preservation and growth of the credit union movement—working together to honor those who came before and an evolution of that commitment to help credit unions reach and serve more consumers to live their best financial lives.

With our shared historical roots, this partnership includes cooperation relating to advocacy, research, education and outreach activities to protect the credit union federal and state tax status and influence additional legislation to help credit unions remain competitive and promote the financial security of their members.

###

About America’s Credit Unions
America’s Credit Unions is the unified voice for not-for-profit credit unions and their more than 140 million members nationwide. America’s Credit Unions provides strong advocacy, resources and services to protect, empower, and advance credit unions and the people and communities they serve. For more information about America’s Credit Unions, visit AmericasCreditUnions.org.

About TruStage
TruStage^TM is a financially strong insurance, investment and technology provider, built on the philosophy of people helping people. We believe a brighter financial future should be accessible to everyone, and our products and solutions help people confidently make financial decisions that work for them at every stage of life. With a culture rooted and focused on creating a more equitable society and financial system, we are deeply committed to giving back to our communities to improve the lives of those we serve. For more information, visit www.trustage.com.

---

Stay ahead of the curve by subscribing to receive credit union news and updates directly to your inbox.

In this week’s New York Minute, we’ve got a bitter-sweet career announcement from the Association! Then, we’re highlighting credit unions supporting their communities, opportunities to participate in EXCEL 25, and more. Get the latest credit union news from across the state in our weekly blog.

Association Announces Retirement of Marge Kazz

After nearly three decades of service to the credit union movement, the New York Credit Union Association congratulates Marge Kazz on her upcoming retirement, effective April 30, 2025. Marge’s impact on New York’s credit unions has been profound. She joined the Association in 1996 after leading two credit unions in western New York and has since served as a Senior Engagement Consultant, partnering closely with credit unions of all sizes to support their growth and development.

Throughout her tenure, Marge has written business plans, guided charter expansions, led strategic planning sessions, and offered invaluable insight on budgets and operations. Her work has always reflected the cooperative spirit of credit unions—putting people first and helping them thrive.

In her well-earned retirement, Marge looks forward to spending time with her family, including her brand-new granddaughter, Valerie, born just last week.

The Association extends its deepest gratitude to Marge for her dedication, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to credit unions across the state. Congratulations, Marge—you’ve made an indelible mark, and we wish you all the best in this exciting new chapter!

Support the Foundation: Now Accepting Silent Auction Donations!

Help us make a difference and make a splash at EXCEL 25! The Foundation is now accepting donations and sponsorships for the annual Silent Auction. This is your chance to showcase your brand while supporting meaningful programs that positively impact credit unions and their members throughout New York.

We’re looking for contributions of items or experiences to be auctioned off. All proceeds will benefit the Foundation and its mission to support financial literacy, credit union development, and disaster relief efforts through strategic grants and assistance. Suggested donation items include: tech gadgets & electronics, gift baskets, travel packages & hotel stays, sporting and event tickets, jewelry, handbags, and more!

Various sponsorship opportunities are also available. To learn more or submit your donation, visit the Silent Auction event page. Don’t miss this opportunity to give back while gaining exposure!

InfoSight360 Launches March 31: A New Era for Credit Union Compliance

On March 31, member credit unions will gain access to InfoSight360, a cutting-edge compliance platform built in collaboration with League InfoSight and its national partners. This all-in-one system combines InfoSight, CU PolicyPro, and RecoveryPro into a single, unified experience.

As a reminder, the current systems will be offline from March 26–30 for migration. After launch, users will access InfoSight360 at http://www.InfoSight360.com, using their CU PolicyPro credentials. If your credit union doesn’t currently use CU PolicyPro, you’ll receive setup instructions.

Whether you’re a CEO or front-line staff, InfoSight360 offers intuitive, real-time support to help you navigate regulatory complexities and reduce risk. This platform is a member benefit and part of our collective effort to support a strong compliance culture across all levels of credit union operations.

The Summit FCU Commits $30,000 to Fight Childhood Bedlessness

The Summit Federal Credit Union recently pledged $30,000 over two years to support the mission of Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP), a nonprofit dedicated to providing beds to children in need. The donation will be distributed among SHP chapters in Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse.

Beyond financial support, The Summit is also organizing hands-on efforts including bed-building events, deliveries, and pillow and bedding drives at their branches. These initiatives will not only help local kids but also deepen community engagement.

With this generous commitment, The Summit is living the credit union mission by helping families in need and creating real, tangible change.

SeaComm FCU Donates $5,000 Toward ACK Civic Center Revitalization

SeaComm Federal Credit Union is helping to bring new life to an important local landmark. The credit union recently donated $5,000 to support the revitalization of the Ausable Chesterfield Keeseville (ACK) Civic Center, which will transform the former Keeseville High School into a vibrant, multi-use community hub.

The renovated facility will serve residents with both educational and recreational opportunities and provide a central space for community activities. SeaComm’s donation joins other contributions and grants helping to fund the transformation of this historic building.

SeaComm’s support exemplifies the credit union philosophy by investing in the communities we serve. We commend SeaComm for its role in revitalizing the ACK Civic Center and creating a space where residents can come together, learn, and thrive.

---

Stay ahead of the curve by subscribing to receive credit union news and updates directly to your inbox.