We’re highlighting the career and contributions of Robyn Young, President & CEO of Great Erie Federal Credit Union and a dedicated member of the Association board of directors. With over three decades of experience in the credit union industry, Robyn has played a pivotal role in shaping the Association and advocating for the rights of New York’s credit union members.
Can you share a brief introduction about yourself, your background, and your professional journey?
I was hired in 1986 as a teller at Riverside Credit Union. Riverside had a rich history serving General Motors employees and their families and utilized every aspect of what was then known as the New York Credit Union League (now Association). In 2003, I transitioned to OPCS Federal Credit Union (now Great Erie). I’ll never forget Sandy Salerno (deceased) for my first opportunity in the credit union world and Jim Wilson for offering me a position in Orchard Park. I was facing health challenges while my youngest child was an active-duty military member at the onset of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Great Erie was a small but growing credit union, and it felt like the right place for me. Later, I became involved with starting the East Aurora Cooperative Market, an opportunity to further educate consumers about cooperative principles: a food co-op and a financial co-op, sharing common values and space.
What drew you to the credit union industry?
Some of our affiliates may remember Sandy Salerno from RCU. I grew up going to credit union events with her family. Serving auto workers was a unique and humbling experience. These members worked long, hard hours in a factory, and they needed help with credit and loan applications. I learned that at the end of the day, it was more than just a checking account or a car loan; the service was as important as anything else. We really do improve the lives of our members and it is a rewarding livelihood. The credit union provided me with the means of supporting my family while encouraging professional growth. It allowed me to pursue my bachelor’s degree and attend CUNA Management School. I’ve been a cheerleader for CMS ever since. Twenty-four years later, I still cross paths with classmates and instructors: Bill Hampel, Steve Rick, Mike Schenk, and others.
What motivated you to join the Association board of directors?
Our Association is a constant source of support for me and the credit unions I serve. The people (mentors), education opportunities, and resources lighten my workload. The opportunity to participate on a greater scale and to give back was very appealing.
In your view, what makes the Association distinct from other financial associations?
Unity. Our business model embraces credit unions of all sizes and complexities. We serve some of the most successful credit unions in the country. We do an EXCEL-lent job of embracing unity over competition. I was happy when America’s Credit Unions emerged, further strengthening our voice.
Why are credit unions important to New Yorkers and the broader community?
Everyone should have the ability to join a credit union. Credit unions provide consumers with an opportunity to improve their financial lives. As our current Chair, Eric Hepkins, clearly articulates, it is the purest form of banking, and everyone should have access to it. There are a lot of people who still don’t know about the credit union difference. It’s our job to educate them and increase membership. Our competition is not with each other.
What role do you believe a board member plays in the success of the Association?
We do a great job of representing credit unions across our great state regardless of size, location, or services offered. Our job is to help credit unions not only survive but thrive.
I’ve spent most of my career trying to replace myself in every role, so that I can move along and serve in other capacities. Succession is essential not only in our credit unions but also on our Association Board. We must think about the future and our responsibility to develop a solid foundation for rising leaders. Get involved! It’s the democratic process we promote in our credit unions. We must attract people who want to participate in a leadership role and be more active in the credit union movement. I appreciate the seasoned members of this Board and the experience they bring to the table; combined with new participants and fresh ideas, we’ve woven a solid model for success.
Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your tenure on the Board?
There are just so many. My peers have been there for me, taking my calls and taking me under their wing, so to speak. People are busy—but not too busy to help a colleague.
In 2015, Shirley Jenkins (Association board member and Municipal Credit Union board member) helped me secure registration to America’s Credit Union and World Credit Union Conference held in Denver, Colorado. It was inspiring to see credit union friends that I have known for a very long time in various capacities. People tend to stick around in this industry–we’re serious but fun!
What Association initiatives or projects are you most excited about?
Succession, Young Professionals. I call myself a dinosaur because I’ve been around for a long time, but I feel inspired by the next generation of credit union leaders. Some talented people are out there and need an opportunity to show what they know. I get charged up when I no longer know everyone in the room. Zoom or in person. It’s a perfect sign.
What advice would you give to someone considering a board position with the Association?
First, ensure your own board and management know there is a time commitment. It’s manageable because Bill Mellin and his team are efficient. Second, resist the urge not to run for a position because there is an incumbent. Change is good. (This is not the US Supreme Court, so you’re not committed for life). A progressive board is always evolving.
In what ways has your experience on the board been rewarding?
I am better positioned to represent credit unions in my footprint and across the State. I’m comfortable talking about why we must remain united as one voice in advocacy. I wish for others to enjoy the same opportunities this experience has afforded me. There is mutual camaraderie and respect regardless of your credit union’s asset size.
Why should someone consider joining the Association board or becoming more involved with credit unions in general?
I encourage involvement with the Governmental Affairs Committee, New York Credit Union Foundation Trustees, and our Young Professionals. Board members are visible and approachable at Association events. I believe people will get involved when they’re passionate about it. It’s an investment of time that yields great returns. Directors from some of our smallest credit unions show up with infectious enthusiasm! Keith Stone – grassroots credit union superhero!!
Outside of the Association and your professional life, what are some of your passions or hobbies?
I’m proud of my family, especially my two children, whom I was able to provide for because of my job at a credit union. Being a grandmother is fun. I’ve been afforded a healthy work-life balance, and I will always be grateful for it. It’s no secret that I am a health nut, a reputation I wear proudly yet maintain a sense of humor about.
My church family and a few civic organizations in our community are a big part of my life. I’ve always had a soft spot for the underdog—people who need a hand when life gets hard. There’s no shortage of need at The Rural Outreach Center in East Aurora. I help their participants with budgeting or connect people with excess to people in need.
What’s one book or resource you’d recommend to someone looking to understand the world of credit unions better?
I’m strange because I do enjoy reading the NCUA website. I think it’s interesting. I read articles published by Scott Butterfield, Your Credit Union Partner. Scott is the real deal in credit union land. He knows our industry well and has a passion for small credit unions and the underserved. I’m also a fan of Suze Orman and Jean Chatzky, both credit union advocates.
Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara.
Share a fun fact or a memorable anecdote related to your time at the Association.
Everyone should have a Laurie Moore or a Marie Betti to keep them straight. Without these two women and their organizational skills, I would be lost.
Please include any additional information you’d like to share:
Get involved, participate, bring your ideas, leverage young employees, keep an open mind, and remain rooted in credit union philosophy. Make way for the next generation of credit union leaders. There’s room for everyone—those who have been around are still relevant. But remember—no one cares that we can balance a GL by hand. Wearing all those hats taught us a lot; I’ll bet the next generation will figure out how to leverage our knowledge while innovating to keep the movement growing.
Robyn’s commitment to the credit union movement is truly inspiring. She has demonstrated a passion for serving others and a deep understanding of the unique value that credit unions bring to communities across New York. As we look to the future, we are grateful for the leadership and guidance of individuals like Robyn who continue to drive the credit union movement forward.
