In this week’s New York Minute, we’re informing you about our comments on FHFA’s request for input and giving you everything you need to know to attend the 2024 Emerging Credit Union Leaders Conference. Plus, this week, Association staff is attending the World Credit Union Conference, and TruStage educates us on the importance of integration in credit unions. Stay up to date on the latest New York credit union news in the New York Minute!

Association Joins America’s Credit Unions and Other State Leagues in Comment Letter to FHFA on Federal Home Loan Bank Mission

The Association has joined America’s Credit Unions and other state leagues to contribute comments on the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s (FHFA) Request for Input regarding the core mission activities of the Federal Home Loan Banks (FHLBs). The collective input stresses concerns about potential changes that could adversely impact credit unions, particularly regarding liquidity and innovative financial offerings. This feedback underscores the critical role that the FHLB plays in providing liquidity and supporting community development, which is vital for the continuity and effectiveness of credit unions in serving their communities.

For a full view of our collective comments, read the entire statement below!

Register Now: Emerging Credit Union Leaders Conference

Get ready to transform your managerial skills into visionary leadership qualities at the 2024 Emerging Credit Union Leaders Conference, sponsored by TruStage! This is the perfect opportunity for existing managers, supervisors, mid-level managers, young professionals, and aspiring leaders to advance their careers.

Location: Crowne Plaza Albany–The Desmond Hotel
Date: September 11-12

You’ll learn about evolving from managers to mentors, tackling leadership challenges, and enhancing your strategic communication. Our expert speakers, Mark Arnold and Shawn M. Temple from On the Mark Strategies, will guide you through the essentials of effective leadership and strategic thinking.

Don’t miss out on this chance to elevate your leadership journey. Register by August 30 and remember to use code 2024VIBE for $25 off your registration fee. Visit our Event Page for more details and to secure your spot. We can’t wait to welcome you to an event that promises to be both transformative and inspiring!

Association Staff Attend the 2024 World Credit Union Conference

This week, representatives from the Association attended the 2024 World Credit Union Conference in Boston, an event bringing together global credit union leaders. This annual conference, hosted by the World Council of Credit Unions in partnership with America’s Credit Unions, featured a series of sessions dedicated to innovation, leadership, and networking among financial services professionals.

Highlights included the Global Women’s Leadership Network Reception, a series of insightful general sessions, motivational keynote speakers, various lunch-and-learn opportunities, and interactive breakout sessions, all geared towards advancing the credit union mission worldwide. To learn more about this event, click below!

#ILoveMyCreditUnion Day is TOMORROW!

Get ready to flood your social media feeds for #ILoveMyCreditUnion Day with your stories, photos, and posts about why you cherish your credit union. This national campaign is a perfect opportunity to highlight the critical role credit unions play in building strong, supportive communities.

How to get involved:

1. Share your story on social media using the hashtag “#ilovemycreditunion”
2. Engage with others using the hashtag to spread the word
3. Follow the official pages on Instagram and Facebook

Need last-minute inspiration? Check out the toolkit below!

The Power Of Integration: Simplifying Insurance For Credit Union Members

By Benjamin Weismer, Director, Product Innovation at TruStageTM

Insurance is a critical component of financial planning, helping provide peace of mind and security for families. For many, purchasing insurance seems daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.

Investing in an integration strategy could help streamline your members’ insurance buying journey, making it more accessible and user-friendly for your members. Let’s explore how.

The evolution of integration

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the financial industry is undergoing a significant transformation. As technology reshapes the way we live and work, credit unions recognize the need to adapt and embrace new strategies to meet the changing demands of their members. One such strategy gaining momentum is the integration of products and solutions through
Application Programming Interfaces (APIs).

Traditional distribution models for insurance were cumbersome and inefficient, presenting numerous barriers for potential policyholders. However, API integration enables financial institutions, including credit unions, to connect their systems and services with external partners, facilitating the seamless incorporation of products and solutions into existing platforms. Consequently, the industry is moving towards a B2B2C approach to enhance the customer experience. This shift allows credit unions to swiftly enhance member experiences, especially when partners can pre-integrate APIs into existing platforms.

APIs enable organizations to integrate the entire insurance journey seamlessly, which can allow for business growth and increasing the number of members protected. This includes everything from simple quoting and application processing to back-end tasks like documentation and payment collection. Previously complex processes have been simplified through APIs, allowing you to integrate them into your own experiences without handoffs.

Combined with a streamlined product set, this integration is designed to eliminate the need for case management or home office involvement, enabling real-time processing for both members and partners.

Integrating through technology

Leveraging technology is crucial in simplifying the insurance purchase journey for credit union members. In today’s competitive financial landscape, it’s essential for credit unions to continually innovate if they want to stay relevant and compete against larger financial institutions.

Implementing technology to automate and streamline processes can significantly enhance the member experience. For instance, by leveraging automated underwriting systems and simplifying application procedures, credit unions can make insurance more accessible and straightforward for their members. This approach not only improves efficiency but is also designed to enhance the overall satisfaction of members by reducing the time and effort required to obtain insurance.

Credit union leaders should focus on expanding existing partnerships, while also going out and cultivating new opportunities that can bring innovative solutions to their members. By doing so, they can ensure they are providing the most up-to-date and user-friendly services possible.

The benefits of integration for credit union members

Integration offers several benefits for credit union members. Firstly, it simplifies the process of accessing financial products and services. By integrating various offerings under one brand, credit unions can provide a seamless experience for their members, making it easier to navigate and understand the available options. This eliminates confusion and saves time for members, allowing them to make informed decisions about their financial needs. Additionally, integration enables credit unions to leverage digital capabilities, such as online platforms and APIs, to enhance the member experience. This means members can access and manage their accounts, apply for loans, and access other services conveniently and securely from their preferred devices. Overall, integration improves accessibility, convenience, and efficiency, ultimately enhancing the overall credit union member experience.

The commitment of senior leadership

The success of any strategy is heavily dependent on the commitment of senior leadership. Leadership support can play a crucial role in prioritizing the importance of digital transformations within an organization and ensuring they align with the evolving preferences and expectations of members. How credit unions plan to continually innovate for the future will remain top of mind. The key challenge and opportunity for credit unions in the future will be maintaining relevance with consumers at all stages of their lives and through offering seamless, customer-centric solutions.

Investing in integration is essential for credit unions aiming to simplify the insurance journey for their members. By embracing these technological advancements, credit union leaders can make a significant impact on their members’ financial well-being and overall experience.

TruStage™ Insurance products and programs are issued by CMFG Life Insurance Company, MEMBERS Life Insurance Company and other leading insurance companies. The insurance offered is not a deposit and is not federally insured, sold, or guaranteed by any financial institution. Product and features may vary and not be available in all states. All guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of the insurer. Corporate Headquarters 5910 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI 53705
® TruStage
GEN-6692138.2-0624-0726

In this week’s New York Minute, we’re bringing you all the latest credit union news! Starting off, we spotlight Association COO, Chris Pajak. Then, we update you on credit unions named by Forbes as the best in New York and give you all the info you’ll need to know to prepare for #ILoveMyCreditUnion Day! Finally, recap some recent summer events held by chapters that showcase just how fun being an Association member can be!

Staff Spotlight: Chris Pajak

This week’s Staff Spotlight features Chris Pajak, our chief operating officer. Celebrating 17 years with the Association, Chris started his career in human resources before moving into his current role where he focuses on enhancing member engagement and the day-to-day operations of the Association.

Outside of his professional life, Chris is deeply involved in his family life, supporting his two sons in their baseball pursuits, and hitting the greens to golf whenever time allows! Chris’ spotlight is a great highlight of the advocacy, resources, and events available to Association members!

For a closer look at Chris’s journey and his contributions to the Association, check out his Staff Spotlight video below!

Forbes Names “Best Credit Unions” in New York

Forbes released its annual list of the Best Credit Unions in Each State for 2024, and we are proud to highlight the New York credit unions named by the outlet. Recognized for their commitment to member experience, secure banking channels, and comprehensive digital services, these institutions exemplify the high standards and community-focused ethos of credit unions.

Named among the top for New York State:

• Mid-Hudson Valley FCU
• ESL FCU
• Jovia FCU
• Sidney FCU
• Corning Credit Union
• Empower FCU
• Hudson Valley Credit Union

Each has been acknowledged for their excellence in customer service, the quality of financial advice, ease of use in digital and physical spaces, and the overall trust they inspire in their members.

For a detailed view of the rankings and more on what makes these credit unions stand out, visit the full list on Forbes’ website.

Save the Date: #ILoveMyCreditUnion Day 2024!

Mark your calendars for #ilovemycreditunion Day on Friday, July 26! This national initiative is an opportunity for everyone to share their love for credit unions on social media and highlight the positive impact credit unions have on their communities.

How to get involved:

1. Share your story on social media using the hashtag “#ilovemycreditunion”
2. Engage with others using the hashtag to spread the word
3. Follow the official pages on Instagram and Facebook

For more resources, social media templates, and other information, check out the toolkit below!

Summer Event Recap: Capital Chapter Day at the Track and Southern Tier Chapter Clam Bake & Cornhole Tournament

Association chapters have been busy with fun events this summer! Recently, the Capital Chapter enjoyed a day at the races and the Southern Tier chapter gathered for a good ol’ clam bake. Check out the highlights from both events and stay up to date with our calendar to see upcoming activities across the state!

The Capital Chapter hosted an exciting day at the Saratoga Race Track on Thursday, July 11. Attendees enjoyed exclusive amenities such as a private veranda for an exceptional view of the races and delectable snacks and refreshments. A huge thank you to all of the sponsors for making this event possible.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, July 10, the Southern Tier Chapter celebrated at Mountain Top Grove with a day packed with food, fun, networking, and the much-anticipated 2nd annual cornhole tournament. Congratulations to Chelsi Rosa of Sidney FCU and Eric Reile of Lee & Mason for clinching victory in the tournament!

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In this week’s New York Minute, we’re bringing you recent primary results and the spring 2024 economic update from TruStage. Then, join us in congratulating SeaComm FCU for a recent recognition, and relive the fun from EXCEL24 by browsing pictures from the weekend! We’re bringing you the latest credit union news in our weekly New York Minute!

State And Congressional Primary Results

June 25 was the final day of voting in Primary Elections for all seats in the New York State Legislature and House of Representatives. All candidates who were victorious in the Primary Elections will be on the ballot in the General Election this November. Below, we have provided the results for key races that have a declared winner.

Please note that while some candidates have declared victory, all results are considered unofficial until formally certified by the Board of Elections (BOE). The latest election results for all of the Primary Elections can be accessed via the New York Times tracker here, and the New York State Board of Elections results tracker here.

The articles below provide insight into the results. If you are unable to access any of the articles below please email publications@nycua.org.

• Incumbent New York state legislators enjoy a quiet primary (Politico)
• Bowman loses to Latimer in NY Democratic primary shaped by Israel-Hamas war
• (Gothamist)
• Mannion wins Democratic primary in battleground upstate New York House seat
• (Politico)
• Victors emerge in Capital Region Democratic Assembly districts (Times Union)
• In N.Y. Assembly Primaries, incumbency outweighs political differences (New York
• Times)

Key Races

*Denotes incumbent

Bold denotes race winner

House of Representatives

16th Congressional District – Parts of Westchester and Bronx Counties.

• Jamaal Bowman (D, WFP)* – 41.3%
• George Latimer (D) – 58.1%

22nd Congressional District – Parts of Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Oneida, and Onondaga

Counties – Seat currently held by Representative Brandon Williams (R).

• John Mannion (D, WFP) – 61.4%
• Sarah Klee Hood (D) – 37.8%

State Senate

6th Senate District – Part of Nassau County – Seat vacated by Senator Thomas’ retirement.

• Siela Bynoe (D) – 51.3%
• Taylor Darling (D) – 44.7%

48th Senate District – Cayuga County and part of Onondaga County – Seat currently held by

Senator Rachel May (D, WFP).

• Caleb Slater (R) – 53.4%
• Fanny Villarreal (R) – 41.1%

59th Senate District – Parts of Kings, New York, and Queens Counties.

• Kristen Gonzalez (D, WFP)* – 83.9%
• Gus Lambropoulos (D) – 14.5%

State Assembly

35th Assembly District – Part of Queens County – Seat vacated by Assemblymember Aubry’s

retirement.

• Larinda Hooks (D, WFP) – 57.0%
• Hiram Monserrate (D) – 39.0%

37th Assembly District – Part of Queens County.

• Juan Ardila (D)* – 9.7%
• Claire Valdez (D, WFP) – 58.0%
• Johanna Carmona (D) – 31.3% 

40th Assembly District – Part of Queens County.

• Ron Kim (D, WFP)* – 53.1%
• Yi Chen (D) – 39.1%
• Dao Yin (D) – 5.8%

50th Assembly District – Part of Kings County.

• Emily Gallagher (D, WFP)* – 74.9%
• Andrew Bodiford (D) – 3.5%
• Anathea Simpkins (D) – 20.6%

52nd Assembly District – Part of Kings County.

• Jo Anne Simon (D, WFP)* – 78.0%
• Scott Budow (D) – 20.0%

56th Assembly District – Part of Kings County.

• Stefani Zinerman (D)* – 52.5%
• Eon Tyrell Huntley (D) – 46.7%

68th Assembly District – Part of New York County.

• Eddie Gibbs (D)* – 41.4%
• Xavier Santiago (D) – 32.7%
• Tamika Mapp (D) – 16.4%
• William Smith (D) – 6.3%

69th Assembly District – Parts of New York County – Seat vacated by Assemblymember

O’Donnell’s retirement.

• Micah Lasher (D) – 52.3%
• Eli Northrup (D, WFP) – 34.0%
• Carmen Quinones (D) – 5.7%
• Melissa Rosenberg (D) – 4.8%
• Jack Kellner (D) – 2.0%

82nd Assembly District – Part of Bronx County.

• Michael Benedetto (D)* – 60.9%
• Jonathan Soto (D, WFP) – 36.9%

84th Assembly District – Part of Bronx County.

• Amanda Septimo (D, WFP)* – 69.4%
• Hector Feliciano (D) – 25.1%

92nd Assembly District – Part of Westchester County.

• MaryJane Shimsky (D, WFP)* – 56.7%
• Thomas Abinanti (D) – 38.1%

103rd Assembly District – Parts of Ulster and Dutchess Counties.

• Sarahana Shrestha (D, WFP)* – 66.2%
• Gabi Madden (D) – 33.6%

106th Assembly District – Parts of Columbia and Dutchess Counties.

• Didi Barrett (D)* – 57.0%
• Claire Cousin (D, WFP) – 42.7%

107th Assembly District – Parts of Albany, Columbia, Rensselaer, and Washington Counties –

Seat currently held by Assemblymember Scott Bendett (R).

• Chloe Pierce (D, WFP) – 52.8%
• Kent Sopris (D) – 44.1%

109th Assembly District – Parts of Albany County – Seat vacated by Assemblymember Fahy’s

decision to run for State Senate.

• Gabriella Romero (D, WFP) – 29.2%
• Owusu Anane (D) – 14.0%
• Ginnie Farrell (D) – 20.7%
• Jack Flynn (D) – 7.8%
• Andrew Joyce (D) – 8.8%
• Dustin Reidy (D) – 16.7%

137th Assembly District – Parts of Monroe County.

• Demond Meeks (D, WFP)* – 63.4%
• Willie Lightfoot (D) – 33.0%

Albany County District Attorney

• David Soares (D)* – 44.5%
• Lee Kindlon (D) – 53.9%

If you have any additional questions, please reach out to the Association’s Chief Advocacy Officer Amy Kramer at Amy.Kramer@nycua.org. 

EXCEL24: See the Pictures and Relive the Fun!

Don’t miss out on reliving the memorable moments from EXCEL 24! If you attended our event, we invite you to browse through the photo galleries linked below. Feel free to download any pictures you find of yourself and share them with your network. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Andrew Elder of Best Frame Forward for capturing these fantastic memories.

SeaComm FCU and ESL FCU Named to “Great Place To Work” List

Join us in congratulating SeaComm Federal Credit Union and ESL Federal Credit Union on being the most recent credit unions to be certified as a ‘Great Place to Work^®’. This honor recognizes employers who create an outstanding employee experience, and helps identify these institutions as those that offer a great company culture, certified by employee feedback.

The certification by Great Place to Work^® reflects these institutions’ ongoing commitment to creating a supportive and engaging workplace. It highlights the credit unions’ success in maintaining a culture that fosters employee satisfaction and organizational excellence. Congratulations to SeaComm and ESL on continuing to set a high standard as best places to work in the country.

TruStage Report: Spring ‘24 Updates from Steve Rick, Chief Economist

Stay updated with the latest insights from TruStage’s Spring 2024 report! This comprehensive analysis forecasts slow but steady economic growth and potential interest rate reductions in 2024, highlighting the ongoing battle against inflation and its implications for credit unions. Dive into detailed predictions on inflation rates, the Consumer Price Index, real GDP, and the looming liquidity risks that may challenge the financial services environment. For a deeper understanding of these trends and how they could impact your credit union, access the full report now and prepare for the year ahead with strategic insights from TruStage experts.

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In this week’s New York Minute, we’re spotlighting Marie Betti, a member of the Association’s board of directors, and highlighting a few New York credit unions named to Newsweek’s 2024 list of Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions. Then, read all about the potential impacts of not exploring cannabis banking. Finally, we’re looking for your feedback on EXCEL 24. Get all the latest New York credit union news in our weekly New York Minute!

Meet Our Board: Marie Betti

In this Director Spotlight, we introduce you to Marie Betti, CEO of Western New York FCU. Marie’s story is not just about career transitions—it’s about finding one’s place in the world of credit unions, a place that turned out to be both fulfilling and impactful. Her journey is packed with lessons about growth, leadership, and the power of community support.

For a deeper dive into Marie’s story, be sure to read her full interview on our blog. You’ll find inspiration in her dedication to the world of credit unions. Don’t miss out on this fascinating read!

New York Credit Unions Recognized as “America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions”

We are proud to share that several New York credit unions have earned a spot on Newsweek’s list of “America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions 2024.” This recognition highlights institutions that excel in serving their local communities with a commitment to personalized service and community involvement. New York credit unions named on the list include:

• ESL FCU
• Visions FCU
• Neighborhood Trust FCU
• State CS Employees FCU
• Corning CU
• Advantage FCU
• Broadview FCU
• One Credit Union of NY FCU
• UFirst FCU
• New York University FCU
• Empower FCU

These credit unions have been recognized for their financial services, but also for their deep roots in local economies and strong community engagement. This honor underscores the vital role that credit unions play in fostering a sense of trust and shared responsibility within their communities.

Congratulations to all the New York credit unions on the list! Your efforts to provide outstanding service and community support continue to set a high standard within the financial industry. To see the full list, click below.

The Hidden Costs of Not Banking Cannabis

By: Chris Van Dyck, Partner, Cogent Law Group

Much has been said about the costs and risks associated with financial institutions offering financial services to cannabis businesses. Indeed, there are legal, compliance, reputational, and other risks associated with banking cannabis. However, often overlooked by financial institutions when weighing whether or not to offer services to this industry are the lost opportunity costs associated with NOT banking cannabis.

It has been over ten years since FinCEN’s Guidance on cannabis banking was issued. Since that time, the number of states in which cannabis has become legal and in which there are state agencies in place to ensure effective regulation has almost doubled. The cannabis industry is here to stay and will continue to expand. As these businesses continue to grow, so too will the number of their employees and businesses ancillary to these businesses, all of whom will need banking services.

Several weeks ago, federal agencies announced moving forward with rule-making to move cannabis off Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act and on to Schedule III. This long overdue sea-change in how the federal government will treat cannabis may tilt more financial institutions toward banking cannabis, at least the smaller community banks and credit unions.

In legal circles, there is talk of a “Cole Memo II” being issued from which a “FinCEN Guidance II” may also follow. The fact that the 2014 FinCEN Guidance has not already been revised after ten years has caused some commentators to voice their frustration and confusion. Now that cannabis is on its way to becoming rescheduled, FinCEN will likely be under even greater pressure to relax the compliance burdens associated with banking cannabis by issuing revised guidance.

If senior management and boards are not at least actively discussing banking cannabis now, by the time they do so, these businesses will likely have already partnered with another bank or credit union, thereby having lost out on a potentially very lucrative revenue source for their institution.

Chris Van Dyck is a partner at Cogent Law Group specializing in cannabis banking. He has been extensively involved in cannabis banking for ten years. Prior to joining Cogent, he was a financial regulatory attorney, and then general counsel and BSA Officer at a financial institution in Maine. He may be contacted at cvandyck@cogentlaw.co and at 207-844-0196.

EXCEL 24 Attendees: We Want to Hear From You!

Calling all EXCEL 24 attendees! We need your insights to make next year’s conference even better. Please take a moment to fill out our post-event survey. We welcome you toshare your experiences, insights, and any feedback you may have.. Your input is crucial in helping us enhance EXCEL’s experience for years to come. Click the link below to provide your feedback.

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Welcome to our latest director spotlight! Today, we’re getting to know Marie Betti, a key member of our Association’s board of directors. Marie’s journey from managing summer picnics at an amusement park to influencing the direction of the credit union movement is not just inspiring—it’s a testament to where passion and opportunity can lead.

Can you share a brief introduction about yourself, your background, and your professional journey?
It was winter in Buffalo and I was laid off from my Summer job, working as the manager of catered picnics for a local amusement park, which I would be going back to in May. My cousin worked at the credit union and asked me if I wanted a job there – I said yes as I’d rather be working than not. I was interviewed by the treasurer in the organ loft of my church and she hired me! I was actually making more on unemployment than my starting salary at the credit union but I liked to work. When the amusement park called me to come back, I decided to stay at the credit union and that was the beginning of my long tenure at WNY FCU.

What drew you to the credit union industry?
Honestly, I was young and needed a job, so when my cousin asked me if I wanted to work with her at the CU, I said sure! At that point, there were three employees, but one was leaving to be a stay-at-home mom and I was going to replace her. I stayed because it was a nice place to work, rewarding and fun! We helped members every day. There was always something new happening or a new service needed. It was a busy job that kept me going all day, which I enjoyed.

What motivated you to join the Association’s board of directors?
When my children were young, I managed to get to several chapter dinner meetings every year and that’s when I got to know other leaders in the credit union movement in Buffalo. I was interested in the whole chapter/Association dynamic and how they work together. The individuals who were involved in our chapter council at the time, would ask me to get involved, and eventually – when my children were older–I did get involved in the chapter. I held several positions on the chapter council and for the last 15+ years, I’ve been the chapter president.

I guess it was a natural progression for me to get involved in the Association board. I knew several board members and I would ask them questions about what was involved with being on the Association board. It seemed very interesting to me, especially knowing I would be representing (at that time) the credit unions in the Buffalo chapter, so one year I decided to run and I won! I’ve held every officer position on the Association board including board chair and I must say, it has been so rewarding for me as well as my credit union. I only hope that I’ve been able to assist the Association and all credit unions, half as much as they’ve helped me.

In your view, what makes the Association distinct from other financial associations?
We are for credit unions only, which is a huge distinction because the Association represents all not-for-profit credit unions. Association acts, lobbies, and educates with and for credit unions.

Why are credit unions important to New Yorkers and the broader community?
Credit unions are such an important part of our financial system because we serve people who may not otherwise have financial services available to them.

What role do you believe a board member plays in the success of the Association?
Board members play an important role because they bring their knowledge and expertise–everyone on the board comes from different credit unions, different areas of the state, and different areas of expertise, so when we come together and share all of this, it all works out very well.

Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your tenure on the board?
Every time we gather together, it’s a memorable moment! Everyone is so personable, we have a great time together!

What Association initiatives or projects are you most excited about?
I get very excited every year for EXCEL, our annual convention! I love seeing so many friends and peers from across the state come together. We have so much fun and get re-energized about our movement, I just love it! It’s my favorite conference! If you’ve never attended, you need to get it on your list, you won’t regret it.

In what ways has your experience on the board been rewarding?
My experience on the Association board has assisted me in so many ways; whether it be personally or professionally. I have learned so much from the rest of the board members over the years and I’ve taken so much back to our chapter and to my own credit union. Being on the board keeps me updated on all current things happening in the credit union movement.

Why should someone consider joining the Association board or becoming more involved with credit unions in general?
Just helping out at the chapter level will bring you so much knowledge and you meet so many great fellow credit union people, but if you want to expand on that, then a board seat on the Association board is very rewarding and you’ll meet great people from across New York State.

Outside of the Association and your professional life, what are some of your passions or hobbies?
Family and vacations. I love to watch my grandchildren’s sports. I have 9 grandchildren, so that keeps me pretty busy. I am typically at a game every evening or weekend day. I love to travel and garden. I am involved in my church. While I’m still working, that’s all I can manage right now.

What’s one book or resource you’d recommend to someone looking to understand the world of credit unions better?
I think the key is personal service and when I think of service, I think of Kevin Brown and Disney, Kevin has a pretty cool story about service at Disney. I’ve been to the Disney Institute and I believe the “Disney way” of service is a great one to mimic.

Marie Betti is a great example of how dedication and the right opportunities can lead to significant career contributions. From her early days at the credit union to her role on the Association’s board, Marie has been an influential leader. Her insights remind us of the value of commitment to our communities and the difference one person can make.